(Mark Banks)
So, if you want a glorious and hilarious relief from the Covid 19 blues, then don’t miss this! (Review by Caroline Smart)
What a joy to see Mark Banks back in Durban again and in top form. The stage is bare except for the microphone stand and some attractive lighting. Apart from appearing initially with a feathered headpiece, face mask and a black jacket - which he divests very quickly - his costume is a brightly patterned shirt.
The title gives one the expectation that it’s going to be set on an ice rink but that’s a totally different story which he explains later in the show.
Rather think of “Mark Banks on Ice” being something like a delicious martini or whatever your choice is of a drink on ice. Sparkling bright and goes down very well.
Banks, who has been at the top of South Africa’s comedy field for many years – he’s been coming to Durban for at least 35! – has a particularly unique style. It’s like being on the back of a fast-moving motor cycle which starts off on a set road (topic) and then sheers off in different directions as the journey weaves through its humorous telling. So, a single subject or small piece of information can turn into a hilarious saga!
He touches on the Emirates Airways arrival in South Africa post the original Covid 19 ban, moving on to demonstrate how the brown (throw up) bags on Safair need to be worn as masks in-flight.
In fact, the Covid 19 rules get sent up on all sides. Very little escapes his ambit. Especially a particular bank and medical aid system! He hones in on menu items; street sellers and their products; home security systems; flatulence and drugs. Other subjects are doctors’ waiting rooms; safety glass in banks; ATM’s and cellphones – subjects you wouldn’t normally dream of laughing at until Banks puts his perspective on them.
When he wants to get a word across, he emphasises it with his distinctive loud shout and stoop. Just in case you didn’t get it! When he tries to identify complicated medical terms, he can end up with a word that virtually uses half a pocket dictionary!
His humour can be both wicked and startling, but he never uses foul or racist language. If he does hone in on a particular race or religion, he lambasts them all!
The shrieks of laughter from last night’s delighted audience proves the quality of the show. So, if you want a glorious and hilarious relief from the Covid 19 blues, then don’t miss this!
Only two more shows: tonight (Saturday, October 10) at 19h00 and tomorrow (Sunday, October 11) at 14h00. (Venue opens 60 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)
Tickets R160 (R140 pensioners and students with a valid student card). Loyalty Card Holders (R130) ALL SHOWS
NO WALK-INS ALLOWED
75 PEOPLE MAX PER SHOW (50%)
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.
Bookings on email only: roland@stansell.co.za or http://events.durbantheatre.com/
For more information contact 082 499 8636 or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/
ALL SEATING WILL BE AT SEPARATE TABLES AND RHUMBELOW WILL OBVIOUSLY BE SEATING CO-HABITING COUPLES AND/OR FAMILY MEMBERS.
NB: 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)
Follow Rhumbelow Theatre on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RHUMBELOW-THEATRE-24998631016/ or Instagram - @therhumbelow or Twitter - @rhumbelow2001 - Caroline Smart
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