(The lofty columns of the area adjoining the foyer add to the impressive nature of the hotel)Newest hotel at Montecasino provides a comfortable and elegant stay-over for those attending Dreamgirls.
(Review by Caroline Smart)
Several weeks ago, I reviewed the superb Dreamgirls which is currently running at The Teatro at Montecasino (http://news.artsmart.co.za/2011/03/dreamgirls.html). As before, I enjoyed the Show & Stay Package offered by the organisers. Last time it was at the 5-star Tuscan Palazzo Montecasino Hotel - this time it was at the newest hotel, The Southern Sun Montecasino. The third hotel is the ultra-trendy 4-star Sun Square Montecasino Hotel.
The Show and Stay Package offers R2,485 for two people sharing which includes a two-course dinner in the hotel restaurant, theatre tickets, overnight stay in a standard room and full English breakfast for two.
Southern Sun Montecasino is very grand and the spacious foyer and restaurant area feature impressive light fittings. The hotel is apparently modelled (alongside the Tuscany style of the entire Montecasino complex) on elegant Venetian décor with the “design and spirit of a centuries-old Italian villa balanced with modern elements.”
My sister and I were placed in a Superior Room which boasted a very comfortable Queen-sized bed. At least, the bed was at a more reasonable height and one didn’t have to launch onto it as I did at The Palazzo!
I must say that the bedroom/bathroom was difficult to describe. “Venetian mixed with sushi” would be more apt. Baroque elements of drapes, carved headboard, elegant furniture and wall fittings juxtaposed with the minimalist nature of a very efficiently planned bathroom. Despite its tiny size, it hosts a deep bath and separate shower (clear glass) and toilet (opaque glass) cubicles. It was the square Zen-type basin that made me think of sushi! The “wall” connecting the bathroom to the bedroom space actually comprises two sliding shutters so you can luxuriate in your bath while gazing out of the window or conferring with your companion.
My best was the vintage-styled metallic grey telephone which was very heavy and lent an incongruous but charming touch. It was also a delight to look out onto the moat with its busy web-footed traffic of black-headed swans and Egyptian geese.
With its open plan kitchen, both dinner and breakfast at Punchinellos made for highly enjoyable experiences. Here the Venetian style reigned supreme – not a sushi element in sight, except on the menu! The Show and Stay Package offers a two-course meal. We opted for the Anti Pasti table to start and selected our choice from the wide-ranging buffet which included some of the most succulent oysters I’ve ever tasted. For main course, my sister chose the Pan Roasted Fillet of Ostrich while I chose the Basil Crusted Beef Fillet – we both pronounced our choices delicious. The other option was Grilled Line Fish Fillets. Should you wish to go for the main and dessert option, be assured that there is a tantalising selection!
It’s a short walk across to the theatre complex secure in the knowledge that your car is safe in the Hotel’s parking garage. Airport transfers are available with prices on request. The Show and Stay Packages only operate on Friday and Saturday nights (with different prices for the other two hotels), subject to availability and must be pre-paid. Bookings through 011 510 3720/1/2 or email montecasinoreservations@southernsun.com
Dreamgirls is running at the Teatro at Montecasino in Johannesburg until May 22, thereafter moving to Artscape, Cape Town, to open on June 8 for a limited season. Book at Computicket outlets, visit www.computicket.com or call 083 915 8000. For more information, visit www.dreamgirls.co.za or Facebook. Proudly sponsored by DSTV, Investec, Southern Sun and Talk Radio 702.– Caroline Smart
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