(Stephen Cloete &
Ricki Gray with their glamorous assistant, Samantha)
A fabulous and very enjoyable night out. (Review by Keith Millar)
Durban’s quirky Rhumbelow Theatre can always to relied on to provide
entertainment that is just a little unusual. Their latest show, Abra-Viagra, is no different. Featuring
illusionist Ricki Gray and comedy magician Stephen Cloete, it is astonishing,
mind-boggling and above all very entertaining. In fact, in a word – it is
Magical!
Both Gray and Cloete are veteran performers. They have traveled
extensively around the world entertaining thousands of people and in the
process honing their skills. Not having performed together for 14 years, they
have re-united to present a show which is slick, fast moving and glamorous. The
audience is treated to some very funny stand-up comedy, mind-blowing illusions,
exciting magic tricks, plenty of audience participation and much side-splitting
laughter.
Stephen Cloete has forged a career for himself as an entertainer and
cruise director on countless cruise ships. He describes himself as a comedy
magician and he provides most of the laughs and a bit of the magic in the show.
His wit is razor sharp and he is hilarious as he highlights some of the more
ridiculous aspects of life. The audience also has a turn as he involves them in
some of his crazy antics and story-telling.
British born Ricki Gray has an impressive CV including a private
performance for Queen Elizabeth. He provides a bit of the humour and most of
the magic in the show. Dressed in a variety and glittering and sequined outfits,
and to background of dramatic big-band music, he performs a variety of awe-inspiring
illusions which leave the audience dumbfounded. A duck is found in a previously
empty box, the duck then turns into a feather duster. A walking stick is tossed
into the air and is transformed into glitter, which floats to the floor.
Scarves magically change colour in front of your eyes and, most astoundingly,
his young assistant’s head is removed and carried around the stage.
Talking of Samantha the assistant, she provides the eye candy the
glamour to the show as she appears in an assortment of glorious and daring Las
Vegas showgirl type outfits.
Abra-Viagra is first-class,
good natured, old school entertainment. It is all good clean (well, almost!)
fun and along with the convivial atmosphere of the Rhumbelow Theatre, it offers
a fabulous and very enjoyable night out.
The
production will be on at Rhumbelow Durban today (Sunday) at 18h30 and from May
30 to June 1. Friday and Saturday performances are at 20h00. There are two
shows on Sunday - 14h00 and 18h30. Tickets R120 (R100 pensioners and tables of
eight or more).
The
venue open 90 minutes before show for picnic dinner. Take along food picnic
baskets. Braais will be available before the show. There is limited secure
parking. A cash bar is available (no alcohol may be brought on to the
premises). Rhumbelow Durban is situated in Cunningham Avenue off Bartle Road in
Umbilo
Booking
is essential through Computicket or contact Roland on 031 205 7602 (h) or 082
499 8636, email roland@stansell.za.net or visit www.rhumbelow.za.net
- Keith Millar
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