(All pics by Val Adamson)
It was obvious from the very first moment that the audience members were determined to enjoy themselves and from then on entered into the pantomime genre with great enthusiasm. … Humour is geared for all ages! (Review by Caroline Smart)
What a delight to see KickstArt back on the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre stage – especially with their annual pantomime, without which no Durban theatrical year would seem complete.
This year, they have chosen Jack and the Beanstalk (last staged in 2013) which lives up to all expectations – excellent direction, set and costume design and top-class lighting. Not to mention, of course, that the cast is great and giving their all in this production. While aimed at youngsters, adults will enjoy it just as much – especially the jokes aimed at political situations!
It was obvious from the very first moment that the audience members were determined to enjoy themselves and from then on entered into the pantomime genre with great enthusiasm.
Shelley McLean launched the magic as the good, garden fairy Glissanda Goldenvox (and she has indeed got a golden voice!) who is determined to make sure the world is a good place to live in.
However, this is quickly slammed by the evil sorceress Lady Perfidia Beastly (a powerful performance from Liesl Coppin) who is determined to upset the world and has the help of a giant to achieve her aim.
The giant, Blunderbore, is well-played by a barely-recognisable Lyle Buxton dressed in a huge costume and who towers over one and all.
Then we meet a pantomime newcomer – and a very talented one – in William Young who plays Jack Flatbroke. He’s got it all – looks, dancing ability, humour and a good singing voice.
He is totally in love with Princess Jillian played by Roshanda Lewis who is beauty and charm itself.
The audience responded with fervour to panto regulars Bryan Hiles as the squeaky-voiced Cecil and Iain Robinson who is a wicked delight as Claude. The pair get to perform a lot of knock-about comedy which they handle with ease!
(Left: Blessing Xaba as Dame Flora Flatbroke)
Now to the actor who fascinated me most. Blessing Xaba. I have watched this young man from the time he did his first show for KickstArt about ten years ago and have followed his growth to the excellent singer, dancer and actor that he has become. He plays Dame Flora Flatbroke in a wide variety of outrageous outfits. A pure delight to watch!
Adding to the overall charm are lovely dancers Simone Mann, who is also the show’s choreographer, and Kirsty Ndawo.
All kudos to Carl Oosthuizen who disappears into the costume of the charming Buttercup, Jack’s beloved cow, and for being a scary spider. Costumiere Shanti Naidoo has come up with some unforgettable outfits
Steven Stead’s direction is perfect, as always. Greg King’s set is a pure delight often incorporating puppets and Tina le Roux’s lighting design is top-class.
The show runs until January 15, 2023. Mornings and afternoons only. Tickets R130 to R250. Booking is at Computicket.
Humour is geared for all ages! Don’t miss it! – Caroline Smart
NB: The Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre has
its own generator so show times are unaffected by loadshedding.
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