(John Didlick, Marion Loudon & Grant Bell. Pic by Sharon Watters)
As they always have, the Gee Jays delivered a couple of hours of uncomplicated laid- back good fun. (Review by Keith Millar)
It’s all fun and laughter this week-end at Durban’s recently reopened Rhumbelow Theatre, as the ever popular comedy/musical troupe The Gee Jays hit the stage with Unlocked, their answer to the lockdown induced blues.
And their remedy is simple – loads of laughter, good music, madcap antics, and good fun, in the company of family and friends.
The Gee Jays are somewhat of a legend of the Durban entertainment scene. For over three decades they have been charming audiences with their particular brand of entertainment. And their popularity seems undiminished. Really a case of ”If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”.
Their line-up has changed. Founder members John Didlick and Grant Bell are still there but after the retirement of Gary Mackenzie they have been joined by the vivacious and talented singer Marion Loudon who certainly adds a touch of glamour and a great dollop of extra energy to what was an already energetic group.
The humour remains madcap and at times a little naughty, with John Didlick being the main protagonist. Their music comprises mostly of the well-known hits which are popular with an audience which seemed to be able to sing along with most of the tunes.
Included in the show is music from the likes of Abba, The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Macy Gray, Kenny Rodgers, Sonny and Sher, Dire Straits, The Drifters, Cindy Lauper, Tracy Chapman, The Bee Gees and many more.
Of course, it would not be the Gee Jays without a few parody songs and on this occasion My Old Man’s A Dustman becomes My Old Man’s a Dutchman – with a hilarious Didlick as a fanatical Blue Bulls rugby supporter. Under The Boardwalk transforms into Under the Bedspread and Didlick’s actions in Loslappie have got to be seen to be believed.
Amongst all the madness there is also some fine singing with good tight harmonies.
The structure of this show is a bit different. It is separated into three segments. The first segment had the group sitting on bar stools singing a few mellow songs while the audience was still settling in. Then after a short break, it was into a full-on and flat-out cabaret performance of over an hour. Finally, after an intermission they finished off with a set of up-beat party music.
As they always have, the Gee Jays delivered a couple of hours of uncomplicated laid- back good fun. They always leave their audiences well-entertained and with big grins on their faces.
The re-opening of the Rhumbelow Theatre in Umbilo has been a Godsend to those of us who live for life music and live entertainment. The venue adheres to all the Covid protocols as far as sanitising and social distancing is concerned and is as safe an environment as can be found.
“Whilst we are not changing our 2020 pricing, we would ask that if you are able to please assist us and the performers by donating a higher ticket price,” says Rhumbelow Theatre’s director, Roland Stansell.
There are still tickets available for this afternoon’s matinee at 14h00 (other two shows are sold out). Tickets R160 (R140 pensioners and students with a valid student card). Loyalty Card Holders (R130) ALL SHOWS
ALL TICKETS MUST BE PRE-BOOKED
NO WALK-INS ALLOWED
50 PEOPLE MAX PER SHOW (this will change when Level
1 Lockdown kicks in next week)
Rhumbelow Theatre is situated at 42 Cunningham Road off Bartle Road, Durban. Limited secure parking is available and there is a cash bar (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Bring food picnic baskets or buy from Kevin.
Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za
For more information contact 082 499 8636 or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/ - Keith Millar
PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR PATRONS
1. Patrons need to wear a face and nose covering at
all times in the venue except when eating or drinking.
2. All patrons will have their temperatures taken
on arrival at the venue.
3. All patrons will be required to complete
documents relating to Travel and Covid-19 contacts.
4. All patrons will be required to complete an
indemnity form.
5. All patrons will be required to complete an
attendance register with all appropriate information including confirmation of
co-habiting when couples attend.
6. All patrons will be hand sanitized on arrival
and at interval.
7. All patrons will be requested to bring hand
sanitizer with them to the venue.
8. Any patron who does not meet the required Health
& Safety protocols and temperature check will be refused entry.
9. Patrons above the age of 60 or a person with
co-morbidities will be discouraged from attending performances. (Note:
Discouraged as per Government Guidelines)
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