A fun evening’s entertainment but a
seriously open mind is needed! (Review by Caroline Smart)
Sue Clarence’s annual adult pantomime – and
this year, the emphasis is truly on “adult” – takes the mickey out of the
time-honoured story, The Wizard of Oz.
Darren King has written another hilarious
script and under his direction, the hardworking cast pulls off another evening
of outrageous fun and nonsense. This is linked together with a range of popular
songs and there’s a glorious array of costumes designed by Kevin Ellis and
Gareth Greaves who have been allowed to let their imaginations run wild.
Anthony Stonier, also the musical director
and appearing in his 17th adult pantomime, plays the Wicked Witch of the West and
is at his best in Whatever Happened to My
Part? Donnagh Roberts impresses from the start with her opening number and
goes on to give us a delightful Dorothy (“call me Dotty”), an Afrikaans virgin
meisie from a farm in Umkomaas. The irrepressible Daisy Spencer shines as the Good
Witch, especially in some of the dance numbers. She’s also the choreographer.
Then there’s Dorothy’s whacky loyal and supportive
trio on her journey to meet The Wonderful Wizard of Oz to help get her a visa
because she wants to go to – pause while she swats away imaginary flies - Australia:
Stepping into the role of The Cowardly Lion at short notice, Jacobus van
Heerden gives a stand-out performance as Moffie, the cheerleader. With two
front teeth blacked out, Marc Kay pulls in the laughs as The Tin Man, who comes
from Wentworth and needs help oiling his rod. Thomie Holtzhausen is hilarious as
The Scarecrow, a car guard who is transfixed by Dotty’s well-endowed bust.
The Munchkins in this show are no dwarf-like
creatures with funny voices but long-legged and attractive dancers, Chelsea Blair
and Fortunate Dhlomo, in the roles of Gonorrhoea and Candida. Oh yes, and Dotty’s
dog is called Dildo. So you get the picture re adult entertainment!
While one expects the usual risqué and
below the belt jokes, audiences need to be made aware that there are a few “jokes”
in this show that go way beyond being funny or clever.
The set by Darren King, Greg King and Bryan
Hiles sees “the yellow brick road” extending as a ramp beyond the stage, allowing
the action to move into the auditorium, thereby taking them closer to the majority
of the audience. I would strongly suggest that the silver strip curtain is used
less often as it reflects considerably – often to the detriment of the cast - and
when the smoke machine is used, the smoke looks black.
It’s definitely an evening of good
entertainment presented by a top cast and crew. Just remember, a seriously open
mind is required!
The
Wizard of Oz runs at the sunZONE at Suncoast until
January 13. Show times are Tuesday to Saturday at 19h30 and Sundays at 14h00. Doors
open 90 minutes before the show for diners. Drinks are available at the bar. Tickets
R110 to R130 and seating is at tables of eight.
For all enquiries, block bookings, specials
or food contact Ailsa on ailswn@mweb.co.za
or 083 250 2690. Follow the cast on Twitter or join the Facebook page, Wizard of Oz Adult Panto. – Caroline Smart
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