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Monday, July 26, 2021

RHUMBELOW AFTERNOON SHOWS

The indefatigable Roland Stansell, who runs the Rhumbelow Theatre circuit and has been trying to keep live theatre going, has immediately responded to the lifting of lockdown levels.

He has introduced three productions over the next three weeks with performances taking place at the Rhumbelow Theatre in Durban in the afternoons instead of the evenings to cater for those audiences who may be a bit nervous about going out at night.


Sinatra...Quite Frankly!

This production, which features Anthony Stonier, will have one performance on July 31 at 14h00.

(Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

Sinatra – A legend whose unique voice soared through almost a century of music - making  him one of the most influential popular artists of the 20th Century. A most prolific artist, recording over 1800 songs at least once in his long, illustrious career. A true icon, who continues to have an immeasurable influence on popular culture, be it music, film, art, theatre or fashion.

Sinatra’s breathtaking musical legacy is celebrated in this intimate musical revue, starring Anthony Stonier who has been a recognisable presence on the South African stage for the past 30 years. He has been involved in numerous productions over the years in varied capacities ranging from actor to singer, from pianist to composer. Stonier has been nominated for various awards over the years, in all of the above categories. He has won several awards including a Best Supporting Actor VITA award in 1989 for Frank’n’Stein and two Durban Theatre Awards for Best Male Vocalist - in 2003 and 2007. His inherent musicality imbues this intimate reflection on Sinatra with sincerity, warmth and charm.

 

An Afternoon With Calli

This production takes place on August 1, 2021, at 14h00. (Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

Calli Thomson is no stranger to the Durban music and theatres scene having played in many shows at the Heritage, Barnyard, Catalina and Sneddon theatres, some of them with her husband guitarist singer Barry Thomson, such as The Guitar That Rocked the World, Unplugged, Johnny Plays Guitar, Forever Young, Rock me Amadeus, La Vida and 80’s tribute show Alive and Kicking.

She has been musical director, and band member of numerous shows at the Barnyard theatre such as Glory Days, Rock Around the Clock, Walking in Memphis, Your Momma Don’t Dance, Celtic Rock, Natural Woman, Hollywood Rocks, Rocking all Over the World, Big Band Magic, Viva Las Vegas, Elvis Forever, Broadway Rocks, Route 66, LM Radio, Diamonds & Pearls, 99 Hits, Those Were the Days, Thank You for the Music and 50 Carat Gold.

  

Billy Joel Meets Sting

Durban musicians Andy Turrell (drums/guitar), John Ellis (vocals/guitar) and Evan Cullum (piano/vocals/guitar) team up to pay tribute to the legends that are Billy Joel and Sting. The show will have three performances: August 7, 8 and 9 at 14h00. (Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

For over 40 years, Billy Joel and Sting have had a mutual respect and admiration for each other’s musicality, writing and performing ability. By combining the two artists, the Durban trio are hopeful that their audience will reminisce on memories of the astounding careers of the New York Piano man and Police lead singer.

In 2018 Billy Joel was quoted by the New York Times as saying "Sting and I always joke around: 'Just for the hell of it, let’s join up and put a group together that explodes after, like, a year.'”

Expect to enjoy some of the greatest hits such as Every Breath You Take, Uptown Girl, Every Little Thing She Does is Magic, You May Be Right and many more!

John Ellis is a singer-songwriter from Durban, South Africa. The principal member, guitar-player, vocalist and songwriter for the internationally renowned and award-winning band Tree63, he relocated back to his hometown from America after many years of international success to pursue a solo career.

The multi-talented Andy Turrell, another Durban born musician, has entertained audiences throughout the country for many years. Performing throughout most of his musical career with guitarists Dan Patlansky and Rowan Stuart, this brilliant guitarist in his own right, is also a phenomenal drummer and bass guitarist.

Durban born singer-pianist Evan Cullum has been performing in KZN for the past five years. Starring in productions such as Rock n Roll Nerds and Elton and Friends, he has also been part of the Rockwood Theatre Sibaya hit shows Megastars of Pop, Superbands and Hollywood Hits.

 

“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 Roland Stansell.

Tickets R160 (no discounts for these shows). Bring food picnic baskets or buy from Kevin.

All seating will be at separate tables and the venue will obviously be seating co-habiting couples and/or family members together. There is a full bar available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Limited secure parking.

Booking is essential as capacity is limited to 50 max. Contact roland@stansell.co.za or Computicket

For more information contact 082 499 8636 or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/

All Covid protocols will be strictly observed.

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