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Monday, September 2, 2019

A STAR IS BORN


(Kerry Hiles. Pic by Nardus Nel)

In A Star is Born - The Rise & Fall of Judy Garland due to have two performances at Rhumbelow Tina’s in Kloof on September 10 and 11, 2019, Kerry Hiles tells the life story of Garland, using songs from Judy's movies to accentuate the tale.

Judy Garland took to the stage at the age of two, landed a movie contract at 12, won an Academy Award at 17, and impacted the music and movie industry for generations to come. She died aged 47. How did one of Hollywood's brightest stars dim so fast?

Kerry Hiles tells the life story of Garland, using songs from Judy's movies to accentuate the tale. Accompanied by Luke Holder on piano, this one-hour cabaret played to several sold-out evenings in East London and won an Ovation Award at the 2019 National Arts Festival in Makhanda (previously Grahamstown).

This cabaret features well-loved classics like That's Entertainment, I Got Rhythm and (obviously!) Over The Rainbow. In addition, the performance also showcases some of Garland's iconic numbers such as The Trolley Song and The Man That Got Away, as well as some lesser-known surprise numbers that have delighted audiences: look out for Hoe Down and If You Feel Like Singing, Sing, among others.

South African actress, singer and bass player, Kerry Hiles, is based in East London, but travels extensively for engagements that include voice-over work for radio ads, documentaries and corporate videos; acting in tv ads; emcee-ing at festivals and fundraisers, as well as hosting school, sport and corporate events.

Highlights of her acting career include her roles as Jacqui Kruger in the soapie, Isidingo (2000-2002) and as the “tweaked customer” in the feature film, Stander

Hiles has become well-known for her effervescent hosting style, which thoroughly engages audiences. Her banter at festivals and expos has seen exhibitors experiencing increased sales due to the promotion afforded by her emcee abilities, and patrons have enjoyed her knack for singing and emceeing simultaneously.

Hiles also has several years of experience as a radio presenter: she started as a presenter with the Beach Music Radio caravan in East London, graduated to a pop news presenter on ex-station BRFM, was voted Best DJ on campus radio at Natal Technikon in 1996, and also did pre-recorded internet radio shows for TyneFm. She is well-respected in the voice-over industry for her skills in the recording studio, whether it is for radio adverts, documentary narration, or on-hold messages for companies worldwide.

Performances take place at Tina’s Hotel in Kloof on September 10 and 11 at 20h00. (The theatre venue opens 60 minutes before show for drinks)

Tickets R150 (R130 pensioners and students with a valid student card) and tables seat 8. (No alcohol or food may be brought on to the premises). Tickets are cash or EFT only. Secure parking is available. Booking is through Computicket or contact Roland (also for large group booking discounts of 20 or more) on 082 499 8636 or email: roland@stansell.za.net or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/

You are welcome to book for dinner or lunch at Tina's Restaurant before the show: Call 031 764 7843 to book.

Tina’s Hotel is situated at 14 Beryldene Road in Kloof.

(“A Star is Born” moves on to The Hilton Arts Festival with performances there on September 13 and 14, 2019. Bookings online – www.hiltonfestival.co.za - where you can also download the full programme and a list of where hard copy programmes are available. You can also book at the Box Office at Hilton College should you not wish to book online. Payments online are either by credit card or EFT – all instructions are on the site which is secure. All queries on 033 383 0126 / theatre@hiltoncollege.com)