Winners of 6th annual Naledi Theatre Awards.
The star-studded 6th annual Naledi Theatre Awards ceremony took place on April 19 at the Drama Theatre, South African State Theatre, Pretoria. Once again staged and directed by Naledi's dynamic executive director Dawn Lindberg, the entertainment featured highlights from local hit shows The Magic Flute, Beauty and the Beast, The Fat Black Women Sing, Chess, Rocky Horror Show, Umoja and the internationally renowned African Children’s Choir.
MCs for the ceremony were popular comedian Mark Banks and, the perfect foil to his witticisms, the vivacious Rosie Motene. Angela Kilian, Ashley Dowds, Craig Urbani, Dorothy-Ann Gould, Lesego Motsepe, Kate Normington, Samantha Peo, Nqobile Sipamla, Rachel Tambo, Tamara Dey and Zuraida Jardine were just a few of the glamorous, high-profile stage and television celebrities that presented the various category awards. Popular comedian Marc Lottering presented the award for Best Community Theatre. A warm moment came when the doyenne of musical theatre, Joan Brickhill, came onto stage in her wheelchair to present the Best Production of a Musical.
The Naledi Theatre Awards covered all South African mainstream professional, live theatre productions that took place during 2008. The judges for 2008 were Welcome Msomi, Sibongiseni Mkhize, Janet Baylis, Lopang Molope, Mandla Motau, Moira de Swardt, Helen Heldenmuth, Paul Boekkooi, Peter Feldman, Brooks J Spector, Phillipa Sandilands, Renos Spanoudes, Sizie Modise, Tselane Tambo and William Prophet. An independent auditor verified the results.
Karoo MooseA, written and directed by Lara Foot Newton and produced by Baxter Theatre Centre in association with Absa and Aardklop and presented by the Market Theatre won Best New South African Play Produced; Best Production of a Straight Play and Best Director of a Play or Musical (sponsored by Percy Tucker). Best Performance by an Actor in a Lead Role (Play) went to Mdu Kweyama who also took the award for Best Original Choreography (Musical or Revue). Zoleka Helesi won the Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role with Chuma Sopotela receiving Best Performance by a Newcomer / Breakthrough (Female). Karoo Moose won the award for Best Production Cutting Edge/Ensemble
Beauty and the Beast, produced by Pieter Toerien and Hazel Feldman in association with Disney Theatrical Productions and directed by Robert Jess Roth won Best Production of a Musical. The show also garnered Best Performance in a Musical (Male) for Jonathan Roxmouth and Best Performance by a Newcomer / Breakthrough (Male) for Sibu Radebe. Both actors tied for the award for Best Comedy Performance (Male) (Play, Musical or Revue).
Best Performance by an Actress in a Lead Role (Play) went to Dorothy-Ann Gould for Hello and Goodbye; Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role went to Hamilton Dlamini for Ten Bush with Gina Shmukler winning Best Performance in a Musical (Female) for Chess and Philip Miller winning Best Musical Director / Score / Arrangement for Rewind. Judy Page won Best Comedy Performance (Female) (Play, Musical or Revue) for her performance in The Full Monty.
Best Costume Design went to Leigh Bishop for Magic Flute, Best Theatre Set Design to Gerhard Marx for Rewind; Best Theatre Lighting Design to Nomvula Molepo for The Jungle Book and Best Theatre Sound Design/Sound Effects - Radio Drama Department SAFM: to Schalk Vorster, Bruce Millar and Willem van der Meijden for For Your Ears Only.
The award for Best Community Theatre Production: (sponsored by Computicket) went to 8 o’Clock written and directed by Moses Muyela, produced by Extroverts Entertainment, Witbank
A new award was presented for the first time this year. the Executive Director’s Award presented by Dawn Lindberg and sponsored by Connie Nkosi, one of the directors of Naledi and chairman of Lidonga group, went to the producers and cast of The Magic Flute for their outstanding contribution to audience development by opening the entire season to the public free of charge and for the original and uplifting ‘africanisation’ of this legendary work by Mozart.
Lifetime Achievement awards were presented to Lynette Marais, director of the National Arts festival for 20 years, with two posthumous awards going to John Matshikiza and Es’kia Mphahlele, which were received by their children, Lindiwe and Suubi Matshikiza and Chabi Mphahlele. All the winners received silver Mandela medallions generously donated by the South African Gold Coin Exchange, as well as their Naledi trophy made from recycled glass.
Dawn Lindberg acknowledged the generosity of all the sponsors: Nando’s, Lidonga Group, the SA Gold Coin Exchange, Computicket, Wharfedale Pro, Matrix Sound, Wits Theatre and founding sponsors Christopher Seabrooke, Percy Tucker and Pieter Toerien. BASA also gave support funding. Distell sponsored the wine and the South African State Theatre generously sponsored the venue.
“We were especially thrilled to be at the Drama, State Theatre in Tshwane this time round,” said Dawn Lindberg, “and we extend our thanks to the Theatre’s management and administrative staff, and to all the presenters and entertainers who added their talent, glamour and support to make Naledi better each year.”
Visit www.naleditheatreawards.org.za for more information.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
THE BALD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
(Pic: Shelley McLean, Evan Roberts, Melanie Roberts and Liesl Coppin)
Four friends compile highly enjoyable show of the music they love. (Review by Caroline Smart)
Four top Durban performers who are also long-term friends – Evan Roberts, Melanie Roberts Shelley McLean and Liesl Coppin – have pooled their considerable musical talents to put together The Bald and the Beautiful which is about to come to the end of its extended run at Rhumbelow Theatre.
It’s a good mix of talents comprising brunette Melanie (good to see her back in town), redhead Shelley, blonde Liesl and Evan (no hair) – work the title out for yourself!
Maurice Kort has already effectively reviewed this production for artSMart but, having seen it this evening, I’d like to add my two cents worth in acknowledging that this is a highly enjoyable and entertaining show. There are only two more performances at Rhumbelow otherwise you’ll have to wait for the Witness Hilton Arts Festival in September!
This is a show presented by four people – Melanie and Evan (no relation), go back over 20 years – who not only know each other well on a personal basis but know every inch of each other’s professional skills. They’ve done no less than 14 shows together. In their explanation for the programme content, they explain that the show encapsulates their treatment of all the musical styles they do. They take a song that they love, strip it down to melody and piano, listen to the meaning of the lyrics and then re-arrange styles of songs to suit their intuition, style and abilities.
There is no logical progression for the songs, so don’t try to find one. Just sit back and let four good entertainers take you on a journey of the music of their choice. The arrangements are often fascinating and interesting and there are some delicious surprises. Expect to hear Time After Time, Make You Feel My Love, I Will Survive, My Baby Just Cares For Me, Mr Bojangles and a Carole King medley. Shelley shines in Halleluja while Evan wryly acknowledges his relationship with his singers in I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face.
All three actresses have been through the emotional mill on a major scale one way or the other over the past few years which adds considerably poignancy to a number of the songs. Melanie throws down the gauntlet to her ex-husband in what is a highly amusing rendition of “You Ain’t Nothin’ but a Hound Dog” which includes Shelly and Liesl putting their oar in with hilarious reference to high profile figures currently in the limelight.
A grand piano takes up nearly all the space on the compact Rhumbelow stage and while Evan is mainly seated at the instrument, Shelley occasionally takes over. There is good-natured banter between the four of them, adding to the informality of the show.
Happily, for once, I can report that the sound is good for this Rhumbelow show and the lighting includes some attractive effects. Generally the costumes are attractive but there are some which are very unflattering and don’t work on stage.
The Bald and the Beautiful has two more performances tomorrow and Sunday (May 2 at 20h00 and May 3 at 18h30). The venue opens 90 minutes before show for picnic dinner.
Tickets R80. Take along food picnic baskets and braais will be available. There is limited secure parking and booking is essential. A cash bar is available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Rhumbelow Theatre is situated in Cunningham Avenue off Bartle Road.
To book contact Roland on 031 205 7602 (h) or 082 499 8636, email roland@stansell.za.net or visit www.rhumbelow.za.net – Caroline Smart
Friday, May 1, 2009
MIM FOR PETE SEEGER CELEBRATION
International folk star to head up Pete Seeger 90th birthday celebration concert.
International folk singing icon Miriam Backhouse, who headlined Splashy Fen last year, will head an all-star cast including Syd Kitchen, Fiona Tozer and Dina Daniel in a concert to take place on May 3.
The concert will pay tribute to Pete Seeger who has been described as “an amazing entertainer, leading his audiences in song wherever he goes. At 90 he is still singing as enthusiastically as ever.”
In the ‘60s Pete Seeger spearheaded the Protest Song movement with his songs about equality and Peace. We shall overcome and Where have all the flowers gone? have become anthems of the era. His career inspired many others to follow in his footsteps, including Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and Miriam Backhouse.
The Pete Seeger 90th birthday celebration concert will take place on May 3 in the Pieter Scholtz Open Air Theatre at the University of KwaZulu-Natal from 14h00 to 16h00. Entrance is free.
International folk singing icon Miriam Backhouse, who headlined Splashy Fen last year, will head an all-star cast including Syd Kitchen, Fiona Tozer and Dina Daniel in a concert to take place on May 3.
The concert will pay tribute to Pete Seeger who has been described as “an amazing entertainer, leading his audiences in song wherever he goes. At 90 he is still singing as enthusiastically as ever.”
In the ‘60s Pete Seeger spearheaded the Protest Song movement with his songs about equality and Peace. We shall overcome and Where have all the flowers gone? have become anthems of the era. His career inspired many others to follow in his footsteps, including Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and Miriam Backhouse.
The Pete Seeger 90th birthday celebration concert will take place on May 3 in the Pieter Scholtz Open Air Theatre at the University of KwaZulu-Natal from 14h00 to 16h00. Entrance is free.
OPERA SCENES FROM OSCA
UKZN’s Opera School and Choral Academy to present two evenings of opera scenes.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal Opera School and Choral Academy is to present two exciting evenings of opera scenes excerpted from operas by Mozart and Donizetti.
The scenes are double cast and provide the opportunity for OSCA students to hone their craft in a collegial environment. The scenes were selected by Lionel Mkhwanazi, Lecturer in Classical Voice, and will be directed by both Lionel and Bronwen Forbay, who recently joined the OSCA faculty. Andrew Warburton will accompany the performances.
Performances are free and open to the public and will take place in the OSCA auditorium on May 15 and May 16 at 19h30. Secure parking will be provided. Further information from Patience Myeni in the OSCA office on 031 260 1672.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal Opera School and Choral Academy is to present two exciting evenings of opera scenes excerpted from operas by Mozart and Donizetti.
The scenes are double cast and provide the opportunity for OSCA students to hone their craft in a collegial environment. The scenes were selected by Lionel Mkhwanazi, Lecturer in Classical Voice, and will be directed by both Lionel and Bronwen Forbay, who recently joined the OSCA faculty. Andrew Warburton will accompany the performances.
Performances are free and open to the public and will take place in the OSCA auditorium on May 15 and May 16 at 19h30. Secure parking will be provided. Further information from Patience Myeni in the OSCA office on 031 260 1672.
SWAMI THYAGARAJA FESTIVAL
Indian Academy’s annual showcase to be presented on May 17.
The Indian Academy of South Africa’s annual showcase, the Swami Thyagaraja Music Festival will be held on May 17 in the City Hall.
The line-up includes five international artistes with guest appearance by South African artistes. The award recipient will be Smt Navamani Philips.
The performance will take place at 14h30. Tickets range from R30 to 50. More information on 031 201 1121.
The Indian Academy of South Africa’s annual showcase, the Swami Thyagaraja Music Festival will be held on May 17 in the City Hall.
The line-up includes five international artistes with guest appearance by South African artistes. The award recipient will be Smt Navamani Philips.
The performance will take place at 14h30. Tickets range from R30 to 50. More information on 031 201 1121.
INTERNATIONAL NAVIGATOR LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME
Boosting SA’s leaders of the future.
Calling all emerging leaders – the next International Navigator leadership programme is running in Gauteng from May 12, 2009.
Run by international not-for-profit organisation Common Purpose, this programme is targeted at emerging leaders from all three sectors: private, public and voluntary/community.
Participants will tailor-make their learning journey through a selection of modules, and will examine real-life challenges in business and in the community. They will meet movers and shakers from all walks of life and contexts, and will learn how to draw out the full value of diversity within their organisation.
Trainee or new managers and decision-makers will find the International Navigator course particularly useful and challenging, as it takes participants out of their comfort zones, encourages them to adapt better to change, explores their attitudes to risk, and improves their understanding of how people think.
Fresh ideas, new business opportunities and networking will be the order of the day, as participants learn about how power works in the region and how it can be navigated for the benefit of their organisation and society in general.
The rationale behind Common Purpose is to develop more and better leaders with collaborative styles and broader vision, which will ultimately benefit society as a whole.
The programme is Gauteng-based and starts on May 12 and runs until September 29, requiring a 45-hour commitment over five months.
To find out more about Common Purpose and the International Navigator programme, visit www.commonpurpose.org.za, e-mail elsbeth.dixon@commonpurpose.org.za or call 011 836 6348.
Calling all emerging leaders – the next International Navigator leadership programme is running in Gauteng from May 12, 2009.
Run by international not-for-profit organisation Common Purpose, this programme is targeted at emerging leaders from all three sectors: private, public and voluntary/community.
Participants will tailor-make their learning journey through a selection of modules, and will examine real-life challenges in business and in the community. They will meet movers and shakers from all walks of life and contexts, and will learn how to draw out the full value of diversity within their organisation.
Trainee or new managers and decision-makers will find the International Navigator course particularly useful and challenging, as it takes participants out of their comfort zones, encourages them to adapt better to change, explores their attitudes to risk, and improves their understanding of how people think.
Fresh ideas, new business opportunities and networking will be the order of the day, as participants learn about how power works in the region and how it can be navigated for the benefit of their organisation and society in general.
The rationale behind Common Purpose is to develop more and better leaders with collaborative styles and broader vision, which will ultimately benefit society as a whole.
The programme is Gauteng-based and starts on May 12 and runs until September 29, requiring a 45-hour commitment over five months.
To find out more about Common Purpose and the International Navigator programme, visit www.commonpurpose.org.za, e-mail elsbeth.dixon@commonpurpose.org.za or call 011 836 6348.
NEW DOLPHIN SHOW FOR USHAKA
Sea World dolphins ready to blow audiences away at Shaka Marine World.
Move over Flipper, Keiko and crew … the Sea World dolphins are ready to blow you away.
A world-class team has been assembled by uShaka Marine World to create a brand new show that blends the unique performance skills of its dolphins with a powerful story and music.
Produced by the internationally-acclaimed Nicholas Ellenbogen - in collaboration with composer Dave Ornellas and Sea World Dolphinarium curator Gabby Harris - Shaka’s Tears traces King Shaka’s changing attitude to the sea and its amazing creatures. From viewing dolphins as a source of food Shaka, with the aid of the incredible Sea World dolphins, slowly changes his attitude to our oceans and encourages audiences to do the same.
Ellenbogen’s return to Durban after an absence of 18 years was engineered by the Sea World team who were excited about using his vast experience in the field of environmental theatre. As artistic director of drama at the Playhouse he founded the trailblazing Loft Theatre Company in the 80s. His Theatre for Africa, founded with actress Liz Szymczak, is in demand all over the world. Last year it performed in Nepal, England and Spain.
Ellenbogen and Szymczak were tasked with bringing an exciting and evolving element to the daily dolphin shows at uShaka, while also focusing on the importance of marine conservation. For several months, the dolphin trainers have committed themselves to a theatre skills development programme led by Szymczak, while the dolphins have enjoyed learning their new routines.
The powerful soundtrack which has been composed for the show was created by South African rock legend Dave Ornellas and includes vocals by Durban’s own Brenda Radloff. Ornellas, currently working between South Africa, America and Sweden, jumped at the opportunity to come to Durban and work with the dolphins and his old friend, Ellenbogen.
The film inserts on the big screen created by Darrol Williams include extraordinary footage of the birth of the new Sea World dolphin Khethiwe last November, as well as KZN’s sardine run where wild dolphins are seen having a feast.
Opening on May 9 at 13h00, Shaka’s Tears is an enchanting family show that will enthral locals and tourists. For more information call uShaka Marine World on 031 328 8000.
Move over Flipper, Keiko and crew … the Sea World dolphins are ready to blow you away.
A world-class team has been assembled by uShaka Marine World to create a brand new show that blends the unique performance skills of its dolphins with a powerful story and music.
Produced by the internationally-acclaimed Nicholas Ellenbogen - in collaboration with composer Dave Ornellas and Sea World Dolphinarium curator Gabby Harris - Shaka’s Tears traces King Shaka’s changing attitude to the sea and its amazing creatures. From viewing dolphins as a source of food Shaka, with the aid of the incredible Sea World dolphins, slowly changes his attitude to our oceans and encourages audiences to do the same.
Ellenbogen’s return to Durban after an absence of 18 years was engineered by the Sea World team who were excited about using his vast experience in the field of environmental theatre. As artistic director of drama at the Playhouse he founded the trailblazing Loft Theatre Company in the 80s. His Theatre for Africa, founded with actress Liz Szymczak, is in demand all over the world. Last year it performed in Nepal, England and Spain.
Ellenbogen and Szymczak were tasked with bringing an exciting and evolving element to the daily dolphin shows at uShaka, while also focusing on the importance of marine conservation. For several months, the dolphin trainers have committed themselves to a theatre skills development programme led by Szymczak, while the dolphins have enjoyed learning their new routines.
The powerful soundtrack which has been composed for the show was created by South African rock legend Dave Ornellas and includes vocals by Durban’s own Brenda Radloff. Ornellas, currently working between South Africa, America and Sweden, jumped at the opportunity to come to Durban and work with the dolphins and his old friend, Ellenbogen.
The film inserts on the big screen created by Darrol Williams include extraordinary footage of the birth of the new Sea World dolphin Khethiwe last November, as well as KZN’s sardine run where wild dolphins are seen having a feast.
Opening on May 9 at 13h00, Shaka’s Tears is an enchanting family show that will enthral locals and tourists. For more information call uShaka Marine World on 031 328 8000.
NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD ACADEMY AWARDS 2009
26 young performers in music, dance and drama for sixth annual awards at the UJ Arts Centre Theatre.
A total of 26 young performers in music, dance and drama will be featured at the sixth annual National Eisteddfod Academy Awards to be presented at the UJ Arts Centre Theatre on May 16, 2009.
These young artists will compete for the NEA Awards in the categories Best Junior and Senior Performers. A total amount of R20,000 in prize money is at stake. Bursaries to the value of R166,000 sponsored by Academy College, the first independent sports and arts school in the country, will be awarded to top achievers in the NEA Awards 2009.
Recent winners of this event include Andile Ndlovu and Camille Bracher who both were top achievers in the International Ballet Competition held in Cape Town last year. Andile was also one of the finalists in DanceDanceDance presented by KykNet. The Junior top achiever in dance 2008, Rachel Beth Davidson, was recently accepted into the People to People Leadership Summit at Harvard University, Massachusetts. Some of the other winners are currently furthering their studies in the arts at various universities.
The National Eisteddfod Academy (NEA) (a non-profit arts organization) established the National Eisteddfod Academy Awards in 2004 in an endeavour to address the need for a prestigious platform where the best young performers in music, dance and drama can compete and showcase their talents. Since 2006 top achievers in any existing eisteddfods and festival may also enter for the NEA Awards.
This final event was preceded by an elimination process that started last year with the annual NEA Eisteddfod. Top achievers in this eisteddfod (involving more than13,800 entries from various provinces) were invited to enter for the NEA Awards. More than 1,600 entries were received which was adjudicated during a first round of events in March 2009. This was followed daily by a quarter final event. The adjudicators had the prerogative to call back a limited number of performers daily to perform again in order to nominate the semi-final candidates. The semi-final event engaged 160 candidates in the various disciplines which were eventually reduced to the final 26 candidates. Adjudicators expected from each participant or group an outstanding and true performance that displayed originality and spark.
The starting time of the event is 19h00 and booking is through Computicket.
For more information regarding the National Eisteddfod Academy and details of participating in the event log onto www.eisteddfod.co.za or contact the NEA on 011 886 6005 / info@eisteddfod.co.za
A total of 26 young performers in music, dance and drama will be featured at the sixth annual National Eisteddfod Academy Awards to be presented at the UJ Arts Centre Theatre on May 16, 2009.
These young artists will compete for the NEA Awards in the categories Best Junior and Senior Performers. A total amount of R20,000 in prize money is at stake. Bursaries to the value of R166,000 sponsored by Academy College, the first independent sports and arts school in the country, will be awarded to top achievers in the NEA Awards 2009.
Recent winners of this event include Andile Ndlovu and Camille Bracher who both were top achievers in the International Ballet Competition held in Cape Town last year. Andile was also one of the finalists in DanceDanceDance presented by KykNet. The Junior top achiever in dance 2008, Rachel Beth Davidson, was recently accepted into the People to People Leadership Summit at Harvard University, Massachusetts. Some of the other winners are currently furthering their studies in the arts at various universities.
The National Eisteddfod Academy (NEA) (a non-profit arts organization) established the National Eisteddfod Academy Awards in 2004 in an endeavour to address the need for a prestigious platform where the best young performers in music, dance and drama can compete and showcase their talents. Since 2006 top achievers in any existing eisteddfods and festival may also enter for the NEA Awards.
This final event was preceded by an elimination process that started last year with the annual NEA Eisteddfod. Top achievers in this eisteddfod (involving more than13,800 entries from various provinces) were invited to enter for the NEA Awards. More than 1,600 entries were received which was adjudicated during a first round of events in March 2009. This was followed daily by a quarter final event. The adjudicators had the prerogative to call back a limited number of performers daily to perform again in order to nominate the semi-final candidates. The semi-final event engaged 160 candidates in the various disciplines which were eventually reduced to the final 26 candidates. Adjudicators expected from each participant or group an outstanding and true performance that displayed originality and spark.
The starting time of the event is 19h00 and booking is through Computicket.
For more information regarding the National Eisteddfod Academy and details of participating in the event log onto www.eisteddfod.co.za or contact the NEA on 011 886 6005 / info@eisteddfod.co.za
THE WINTER’S TALE
Diane Wilson to direct UKZN drama play for Hexagon Theatre in Pietermaritzburg.
"Exit, pursued by a Bear". This famous stage direction might be one of the few things people recall about Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale, which is coming to the Hexagon Studio Theatre in Pietermaritzburg in a new production early in May. The play has been dismissed by some critics as an uneasy mix of comedy and tragedy with an unconvincing plot (involving sudden pathological jealousy, shepherds rescuing an infant princess set out to die and a pick-pocketing confidence trickster).
However, after working on this production with a cast of second and third year students in UKZN Pietermaritzburg's drama department, director Diana Wilson is convinced that The Winter's Tale celebrates theatrical possibility. She says: "It is almost as if Shakespeare were saying, ' I'll give you a compressed version of Othello, then on the stage direction 'exit, pursued by a bear,' flip you into an Arcadian setting with a princess who thinks she's a shepherdess and then for good measure, I'll end with the magic of a statue coming to life and I defy you to dismiss it as ridiculous.’
“It is true that if one simply recounts the plot, it seems improbable, but we hope to convince you that in performance this play still has the power, like all restoration myths, to touch an audience deeply," concludes Diana Wilson whose two previous productions in the same venue, As You Like It and The Taming of the Shrew were hugely popular and sold out. Therefore early booking is advised.
Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale runs from May 6 to 9 at 19h00 in the Hexagon Studio Theatre, Pietermaritzburg. Tickets R30 (R20 students/seniors). Bookings on 033 260 5537 or email: hexagon@ukzn.ac.za
"Exit, pursued by a Bear". This famous stage direction might be one of the few things people recall about Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale, which is coming to the Hexagon Studio Theatre in Pietermaritzburg in a new production early in May. The play has been dismissed by some critics as an uneasy mix of comedy and tragedy with an unconvincing plot (involving sudden pathological jealousy, shepherds rescuing an infant princess set out to die and a pick-pocketing confidence trickster).
However, after working on this production with a cast of second and third year students in UKZN Pietermaritzburg's drama department, director Diana Wilson is convinced that The Winter's Tale celebrates theatrical possibility. She says: "It is almost as if Shakespeare were saying, ' I'll give you a compressed version of Othello, then on the stage direction 'exit, pursued by a bear,' flip you into an Arcadian setting with a princess who thinks she's a shepherdess and then for good measure, I'll end with the magic of a statue coming to life and I defy you to dismiss it as ridiculous.’
“It is true that if one simply recounts the plot, it seems improbable, but we hope to convince you that in performance this play still has the power, like all restoration myths, to touch an audience deeply," concludes Diana Wilson whose two previous productions in the same venue, As You Like It and The Taming of the Shrew were hugely popular and sold out. Therefore early booking is advised.
Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale runs from May 6 to 9 at 19h00 in the Hexagon Studio Theatre, Pietermaritzburg. Tickets R30 (R20 students/seniors). Bookings on 033 260 5537 or email: hexagon@ukzn.ac.za
IMPERIAL RUSSIAN BALLET COMPANY
(Pic: Dancers from the Imperial Russian Ballet Company in the “Can Can” scene from “Orpheus in the Underworld”)Spectacular performance by Moscow-based company.
Dance lovers will be treated to a spectacular performance by the Imperial Russian Ballet when the famous dance company visits Durban on June 27.
One of the most successful and well-known ballet companies in Moscow, The Imperial Russian Ballet Company was founded in 1994 on the initiative of legendary Russian ballerina Maija Plisetzkaya. It was named in honour of the former immortal “emperors” of the Russian ballet stage as well as the Imperial family for their contribution to the Russian ballet culture.
Artistic director Gediminas Taranda, a soloist of the Bolshoi Ballet, has worked closely with Plisetzkaya pursuing her modern style of dance. He brings creativity and innovation to the company’s classic productions. The company consists of outstanding dancers trained by famous ballet teachers in Russia and also attracts leading artists from European and American companies.
The company’s repertoire includes a number of outstanding full-length classical masterpieces together with aspects of modern choreography.
The Durban programme features Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana in the first act with scenes and extracts from classical masterpieces in the second act.
Performances take place in the Playhouse Opera at 15h00 and 19h00. Tickets range from R135 to R225 with concessions at R100 for pensioners and children aged six to 12 at the 15h00 show only. Tickets are available from Computicket. Seats are limited so early booking is advised.
THE BEST PARTY SHOW
(Pic: Rudi Jansen as Cornelius; Carly Graeme as Mimi; Andrew Webster as Frederic; Mortimer Williams as Nigel)
From initial quirky format to full-on party mode, this show offers great entertainment. (Review by Caroline Smart)
Just opened at the Phantom Ship’s Upper Deck at uShaka Marine World is a new show titled The Best Party Show. Featuring mainly Johannesburg performers, it is directed by Neels Clasen and produced by Heidi Edeling and is compiled from the greatest party music written over the past six decades.
When I say “mainly Johannesburg performers”, it is because Andrew Webster – no stranger to Durban audiences through the many productions he has appeared in over the years here – has now relocated to Durban after an absence of 11 years. So we can rightfully reclaim his as our own. After all, he did major in guitar and voice while studying music at the former Technikon Natal and University of Durban Westville.
Andrew keeps very fine company in this production with the glamorous Carly Graeme, the exuberant Mortimer Williams and the genial Rudi Jansen. The show is created around the uppity lead vocalist of a band (Mimi) who suddenly is left without her musicians and has to perform solo. Her initial appearance is interrupted by a highly unlikely trio of misfits who look and sound like the local wannabees from a platteland dorp.
After listening to them perform a bunch of Afrikaans liedtjies in dreadful costumes with appalling choreography, she flounces off the stage leaving them to it. What begins to look like an off-fringe Grahamstown festival offering, suddenly takes a sharp turn as we begin to discover that – despite appearances (think Susan Boyle, the frumpy middle-aged matron who astounded the judges in a UK talent contest and has become a worldwide phenomenon) – these musos can actually crack it.
Mimi, who has been listening to them off-stage (while changing into something less soignée and sophisticated) begins to look at them with different eyes. They could be useful to her ... but there are a number of serious changes that have to be made first. When the second act kicks in, they’re all “on the same page”, as it were, and we get to hear some seriously good old fashioned rock ‘n roll from the new power-dressed foursome calling themselves Tanya and the Trilogy. Gone is the dof image – this band rocks.
Even the Upper Deck’s musical director, Shem Mahabeer, this time appearing on the drums, and bassist Prince Bulo get involved in the madcap action.
Expect to be entertained by numbers from Buddy Holly along with I am What I Am; Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door, Faith, I Kissed a Girl, Sexbomb, Stand by Me, Uptown Girl, I’m a Believer, Islands in the Stream, I Love Rock ‘n Roll and a whole lot more. Highlight for me was The Time of My Life with Carly Graeme and Andrew Webster, both strong performers bouncing off each other’s energy.
Dean Mellor’s lighting design is well planned, moving from a simple format to one that includes all the effects that the venue can accommodate as the show grows from its initial slightly quirky format to full-on party mode.
There was a serious sound problem in this evening’s performance, creating a hiatus in the otherwise well-structured performance as the cast had to leave the stage at one point while it was attended to, but hopefully this has now been corrected.
There were also a few problems with the buffet in terms of plates that were on the cool side and some of the items that should have been served much hotter. However, I understand that the food aspect of this supper venue is undergoing a revamp. If it’s as successful as the new setting where part of the buffet is presented on a dinghy with some delightful maritime touches, I have no doubt it will be a great improvement.
This show deserves a viewing as we don’t often get to see out of town performers of this calibre on the supper theatre circuit. Don’t forget to take a jacket as the evening breeze off the sea can be a bit chilly.
The Best Party Show can be seen on the Upper Deck of the Phantom Ship at uShaka from Wednesday to Saturday nights at 20h00 (dinner starts at 19h00) from April 29 to May 23. Tickets R150 pp include the buffet menu. Bookings can be made at 031 328 8068 or Computicket. – Caroline Smart
Thursday, April 30, 2009
TANGO NIGHTS
Be prepared to be blown away by ground-breaking choreography. (Review by Maurice Kort)
Be prepared to be blown away by ground breaking choreography executed by the accomplished dancers of Bovim Ballet.
Cape Town knows the award winning choreographer Sean Bovim's Bovim Ballet company well from their excellent dance productions. Now Durban has the opportunity of enjoying this dance sensation in their short season at the Playhouse Drama at the start of their national tour to Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein and Johannesburg after sold out performances in Cape Town and Stellenbosch earlier in the year.
Sean Bovim's maxim is to push choreographic boundaries resulting in dance that is so much more than classical ballet en-pointe or athletic rock ballet. Combine this with the hypnotic allure and sensuality of the tango and you have an evening of dance not likely to have been seen before. Tango Nights features well-chosen powerful musical numbers, some better known than others, for example the sensual Kiss of Fire and Roxanne from the film Moulin Rouge.
Not only must full credit be given to the very clever and inspired choreography of the Director, Sean Bovim, but also Daniel Galloway for the lighting which is used to full effect to lend magic to a simple set designed by Karl Staub. Be amazed by how chairs, a table and a bed can be incorporated into the dance sequences. Malcolm Klûk and CGDT deserve special mention for their delightful, colourful, exquisite costumes.
As if all the above is not entertainment enough, this all forms the basis of a passionate tale of raging emotions of love, jealousy and rivalry. Tango so well reflects such relationships between man and woman.
The action of Tango Nights takes place in Cafe Tango, where the tempestuous Cafe hostess, Roxanna, seduces the Head Waiter, Carlos, with whom she subsequently falls in love. There is an alternate cast on the tour and on the opening night these roles were performed by Kerryn Howard and Andre Sauer, respectively, star dancers in no uncertain terms, as indeed are the whole ensemble. Particularly noteworthy from both the choreography and the dancing points of view are the balletic fight scenes between two erstwhile friends (James Bradley and Ignatius Van Heerden) in their rivalry for Roxanna's affections. Contributing much humour is Rolf, the Cafe Pianist, especially in his more inebriated moments.
Catch Tango Nights by Cape Town’s Bovim Ballet at the Playhouse Drama, Durban, from April 29 to May 3, 2009. Special discounts are available for pensioners, students and block bookings of ten or more. Tickets are available through Computicket. – Maurice Kort
Be prepared to be blown away by ground breaking choreography executed by the accomplished dancers of Bovim Ballet.
Cape Town knows the award winning choreographer Sean Bovim's Bovim Ballet company well from their excellent dance productions. Now Durban has the opportunity of enjoying this dance sensation in their short season at the Playhouse Drama at the start of their national tour to Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein and Johannesburg after sold out performances in Cape Town and Stellenbosch earlier in the year.
Sean Bovim's maxim is to push choreographic boundaries resulting in dance that is so much more than classical ballet en-pointe or athletic rock ballet. Combine this with the hypnotic allure and sensuality of the tango and you have an evening of dance not likely to have been seen before. Tango Nights features well-chosen powerful musical numbers, some better known than others, for example the sensual Kiss of Fire and Roxanne from the film Moulin Rouge.
Not only must full credit be given to the very clever and inspired choreography of the Director, Sean Bovim, but also Daniel Galloway for the lighting which is used to full effect to lend magic to a simple set designed by Karl Staub. Be amazed by how chairs, a table and a bed can be incorporated into the dance sequences. Malcolm Klûk and CGDT deserve special mention for their delightful, colourful, exquisite costumes.
As if all the above is not entertainment enough, this all forms the basis of a passionate tale of raging emotions of love, jealousy and rivalry. Tango so well reflects such relationships between man and woman.
The action of Tango Nights takes place in Cafe Tango, where the tempestuous Cafe hostess, Roxanna, seduces the Head Waiter, Carlos, with whom she subsequently falls in love. There is an alternate cast on the tour and on the opening night these roles were performed by Kerryn Howard and Andre Sauer, respectively, star dancers in no uncertain terms, as indeed are the whole ensemble. Particularly noteworthy from both the choreography and the dancing points of view are the balletic fight scenes between two erstwhile friends (James Bradley and Ignatius Van Heerden) in their rivalry for Roxanna's affections. Contributing much humour is Rolf, the Cafe Pianist, especially in his more inebriated moments.
Catch Tango Nights by Cape Town’s Bovim Ballet at the Playhouse Drama, Durban, from April 29 to May 3, 2009. Special discounts are available for pensioners, students and block bookings of ten or more. Tickets are available through Computicket. – Maurice Kort
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