By David Simmons

Joburg Theatre is infused with bucket loads of wit and charm this March where Aunty Merle: The Musical has taken centre stage. Together with abundant local humour, local problems and some of the best one-liners on offer, audiences are in for a very special homegrown experience! Aunty Merle: The Musical is making its Johannesburg debut after two successful runs in Cape Town.

There is something quite remarkable about productions with an authentic feel, especially ones that represent people from each corner of society. We as an audience find solace when privy to stories that reflect and mimic one’s own life and inner feelings, making ones theatrical experience all the more worthwhile. If there was ever a time where humour in our country is most needed, Aunty Merle: The Musical sets the standard for huge comedic relief, igniting a warm and welcoming energy to the stage.

This family inspired musical, straight from the heart of Cape Town’s bustling Athlone has a certain tenderness to it, yet at the same time exudes strong themes with equally strong characters who make sure their stories are told in the best possible light. Aunty Merle Abrahams is no stranger to Cape Town, and for those who have enjoyed her antics over the years will find her anecdotes and comedy prowess all the more appealing.

Merle, or as she is commonly referred to as Athlone’s Rose is in fact the brain child of Marc Lottering and one could say his alter ego. She has been part of Marc’s one man shows for many years and although she may have aged ever so slightly, she is still a force to be reckoned with. Lottering is almost unrecognisable as Merle who epitomises the true characteristics of a typical house wife on Belgravia Road in Cape Town.

There is gossip aplenty at the Abrahams resident, especially with Merle’s faithful neighbour Soraya, portrayed by Carmen Maarman and housekeeper/friend Lidia depicted by Tankiso Mamabolo who’s vocal talents are worthy of praise. Royston Stoffels acts as Merle’s husband Dennis whose affection for his wife is loving and kind-heated. Their Son Carl, coming to terms with his own sexuality is sensitively performed by Anzio September whose character effortlessly has the knack of letting go of his past and enter into a new phase of openness and self -realisation.

Merle’s daughter Abigail Abrahams, played by the enormously talented Tracey-Lee Rose, has just been proposed to by her long-time boyfriend Alan White, a wonderful performance by Paul Du Toit. Abigail and Alan come from different spectrums of life, and with the usual stereotypes of mixed marriages and social standing long forgotten, there is not an inch of doubt that these two are destined to be together.

Alan’s wealthy family from Bantry Bay together with the Abrahams clan are both welcoming of each other even though their opinion and ideals are disagreeable at times. The fast-paced scenes with Merle and Claire bantering over wedding plans together with Dennis and David’s interaction is a joy to watch creating a very interesting family dynamic.

Gina Shmukler and Adrian Galley give a wonderful charm to Claire and David White, Alan’s parents. Claire can’t wait to have ’exotic’ grandchildren however makes it perfectly clear that they are not allowed to call her ‘Ouma’! No story is complete without its resident villain who just so happens to be Abigails Ex, Denver, and a slimy and slippery character brought to life by Loukmaan Adams whose shared secret with Abigail he threatens to leak.

Directed by Lara Foot with music written by Marc Lottering and Tarryn Lamb, this wonderfully diverse musical in essence is all about acceptance and understanding and most importantly how we embrace it. Together with a phenomenal 7 piece band on stage don’t miss this proudly South African experience!

Aunty Merle The Musical will be running at the Joburg theatre until Sunday the 3^rd of March 2019.

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With thanks to our friends in the Theatre Business, who is bringing Marc Lottering’s Aunty Merle; The Musical to the Mandela Stage of the Joburg Theatre, we are giving away 2 Double Tickets to the 20:00 Performance of this true Cape Townian Production, on Wednesday, 20 February 2019,

Popular comedian, Marc Lottering’s most beloved alter ego, Aunty Merle Abrahams sashays onto the stage for the first time in Johannesburg with Aunty Merle, The Musical, after a Christmas and New Years run in Cape Town.

Written by comedian, Marc Lottering and directed by Lara Foot, the show has received four Fleur du Cap nominations and has already enjoyed two sell-out seasons in Cape Town to rave reviews.

Aunty Merle; The Musical Competition is now closed.

Please Note:

1. This competition Closes on Friday, 15 February 2019.
2. Tickets are only valid for the specified dates and performance times.
3. Seat allocations are up to the discretion of the promoters.
4. Tickets may not be upgraded, or exchanged for cash, or for alternate performances.
5. Each Prize comprises of two tickets per winner
6. No-Shows will not receive replacement tickets.
7. By entering this competition, the participant agrees to the terms and conditions.
8. Prizes does not include accommodation and / or travel to and from the event.
9. Winners will be notified by mail.
10. One Entry per Email Address will be entered into the draw.

The post Win Tickets to Aunty Merle: The Musical appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Popular comedian, Marc Lottering’s most beloved alter ego, Aunty Merle Abrahams sashays onto the stage for the first time in Johannesburg with Aunty Merle, The Musical, after a Christmas and New Years run in Cape Town.

Written by comedian, Marc Lottering and directed by Lara Foot, the show has received four Fleur du Cap nominations and has already enjoyed two sell-out seasons in Cape Town to rave reviews.

High drama unfolds in Belgravia Road, Athlone, as Merle’s daughter, Abigail, announces her engagement to her boyfriend, Alan.  As Merle puts it: “He’s a good looking white chap!”  But it’s never smooth-sailing in the world of musicals when Abigail’s twisted and corrupt ex, Denver Paulse – who holds a dodgy top job with the SABC – is determined to get her back – and if not, threatens to reveal a very dark secret which is bound to tear the lovers apart.

Aunty Merle, The Musical boasts a talented South African cast including Marc Lottering as Aunty Merle, Tracey-Lee Oliver as Abigail, Paul du Toit as Alan, Loukmaan Adams as Denver Paulse, with a stellar support cast including Royston Stoffels, Tankiso Mamabolo, Gina Shmukler, Adrian Galley, Carmen Maarman, Zandile Madliwa, Sizwesandile Mnisi, Anzio September, Crystal Finck and Tashreeq de Villiers- accompanied by a live 8-piece band

Twenty-two original songs, with lyrics by Marc Lottering and Tarryn Lamb; musical direction by Alistair Izobel and choreography by Grant Van Ster, have earned the cast thunderous standing ovations.

Aunty Merle – The Musical

Cape Town

Baxter Theatre

3 December 2018 to 5 January 2019.

Tickets from R135 and available from mwww.baxter.co.za

Suitable for all ages (no under 3’s).

Johannesburg

Joburg Theatre

1 February 2019 to 3 March 2019

Tickets from R145 and available from www.joburgtheatre.com.

Suitable for all ages (no under 3’s).

The post Aunty Merle, The Musical appeared first on Stage and Screen.

By Jaco du Plessis

Cape Town nights are heating up this winter and the reason for being is Sné Dladla and his one man show iChameleon currently showing at the Golden Arrow Studio at the Baxter Theatre. For those of us who like to hibernate in winter and avoid the gym, you will love this new show as it leaves you feeling like you’ve just had a good ab workout from all the laughs!

The man bringing us this colourful show is none other than South African comedic royalty Nik Rabinowitz (Power Struggle & Fortyfied) and the artistic pairing with Director Loukmaan Adams (Kat and the Kings & Remembering the Lux) makes for true comedic gold!

This one man comedy show is filled with depth and laughter. The collaboration between the three comedic geniuses makes for an enticing piece of theatre. One man shows can often become tiresome and repetitive… after all you are watching the same person on stage for the entire show. However, Dladla under the direction of Loukmaan only leaves you wanting more. The production flows cleverly between scenes and the affects linger!

Dladla is a true chameleon in his craft as he takes you from topics such as commercialism, to the funniest bowel antics story I have heard in my life – sure to start a new #YOUMUSTGO trend! He even manages to include some personal moments that every child could relate to when dealing with their moms, and technology. He also offers very useful advice for people who have found “The One” and then mixes it all together while turning a few dials and buttons on his mixing deck, showing off his impeccable musical skills!

But the funny man isn’t just all laughs. Dladla manages to transition into some sentimental moments. He surprised the audience with a performance of a song he had written for someone special and then instantly kicked the funny back into high gear! Dladla eloquently gives the audience a peak into his personal life with anecdotal comedic moments bound to make you smile. Dlalda’s versatility captures the audience from beginning to end with 70 minutes of pure delight.

Dladla’s personality and charm left you wanting more, long after the show ended! The minimalist set features well-lit brown packing boxes in different sizes hanging as a backdrop, making you wonder about their significance. You keep expecting one of them to reveal some hidden talent yet to be discovered about Dladla, but sadly, it leaves you hanging, just like the boxes…

It’s clear that this award winning comedian is bound for greatness. Get over to Computicket and book your seats now for the hottest comedy show that is way more fun than breaking a sweat in the gym. iChameleon will run until 8 July 2017 at the Baxter Golden Arrow Theatre.

In Sné‘s own words… YOU MUST GO!

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Nik Rabinowitz presents Sne Dladla | “iChameleon”

Award winning actor-comic-musician Sne Dladla possesses an irresistible charm and raw talent and will soon star in iChameleon, presented by Nik Rabinowitz and directed by Loukmaan Adams. (Also, when we say “award winning”, we mean it. Two Fleur du Caps – best supporting actor and best actor in a musical – a National Arts Festival Ovation Award, plus a certificate for placing joint third in the grade two three legged race).

Dladla’s versatility is astounding. He’s created and performed theatre shows with Andrew Buckland, been cast and directed by Athol Fugard in The Painted Rocks at Revolver Creek, and starred in David Kramer’s Orpheus in Africa and District Six Kanala musicals.

Since bursting onto the stand up circuit, he’s hosted Comedy Central’s Comedy Central News and won a Silver Ovation Award at the National Arts Festival for his first one man show, The Joke’s On You.

His second one man show iChameleon opens at the Baxter Studio on June 27th. iChameleon utilises music, drama, comedy, physical theatre, the human voice, big eyes, and an impressive nose to investigate how we humans pretend. To ourselves, each other, and the world.

iChameleon is ultimately a story of self-discovery, a fusion of many things. It’s thought provoking. It’s moving. It’s funny.

iChameleon

Baxter Golden Arrow Theatre

27 June – 8 July 2017

Tickets at Computicket

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Die Fiëstas word op 18 Februarie 2016 by ’n glansgeleentheid by die Staatsteater in Pretoria oorhandig. Die seremoniemeesters vir die aand is Pierre Breytenbach en June van Merch en Deon Lotz, Rozanne McKenzie, Leandie du Randt, Erik Holm en Marlo Minnaar sal as gas-aanbieders optree.

Hier is die kategorieë, en die moontlike wenners:

BESTE AKTEUR

Albert Pretorius ‒ Buite Blaf die Honde Swart (KKNK)

André Odendaal ‒ Skuldeiser (Woordfees)

Stian Bam ‒ In Glas (KKNK)

Wilhelm van der Walt – Son. Maan. Sterre. (Woordfees)

BESTE AKTRISE

Anna-Mart van der Merwe  – Skuldeiser (Woordfees)

Milan Murray – Amper, Vrystaat (Vrystaat)

Sandra Prinsloo ‒ Die Dag is Bros (Innibos)

Tinarie van Wyk Loots ‒ Hemelruim en In Glas (Aardklop en KKNK)

BESTE MANLIKE BYSPELER

Dean Smith – Die Dag is Bros (Innibos)

De Klerk Oelofse – Liewe Heksie: Flower Power (KKNK)

Louis van Niekerk – Son. Maan. Sterre. (Woordfees)

Loukmaan Adams – Liewe Heksie: Flower Power (KKNK)

BESTE VROULIKE BYSPELER

Greta Pietersen – Son. Maan. Sterre. (Woordfees)

Nicola Hanekom – Son. Maan. Sterre. (Woordfees)

Tinarie van Wyk Loots – Buite Blaf die Honde Swart (KKNK)

Wilna Snyman – Son. Maan. Sterre. (Woordfees)

BESTE REGIE

Christiaan Olwagen – Son. Maan. Sterre. (Woordfees)

Jaco Bouwer – Santa Gamka (KKNK en SOF)

Nico Scheepers – Amper, Vrystaat (Vrystaat)

Nicola Hanekom – In Glas (KKNK)

BESTE TEATERONTWERP

Birrie le Roux – Skuldeiser (Woordfees)

Christiaan Olwagen – Son. Maan. Sterre. (Woordfees)

Nico Scheepers – Amper, Vrystaat en Die Dag is Bros (Vrystaat en Innibos)

Nicola Hanekom – In Glas (KKNK)

BESTE PRESTASIE IN ’N MUSIEKGEDREWE PRODUKSIE

Amanda Strydom – Amanda Strydom: Die Hele Boksemdaais (KKNK)

Laurika Rauch – Nie As Ek Sing Nie: Laurika Rauch (Aardklop)

Margit Meyer-Rödenbeck (konsep) ‒ Liewe Heksie: Flower Power (KKNK)

Schalk Joubert (musiekregie) – Al Lê die Berge Nog So Blou (KKNK)

BESTE SPEL IN ’N SOLO-VERTONING

Gys de Villiers – Elsie se Nommers (Innibos)

Marion Holm – Die Kaap is Weer Holms (KKNK)

Marlo Minnaar – Santa Gamka (KKNK en SOF)

Wessel Pretorius – Adam 2 (Woordfees)

BESTE NUUTGESKEPTE AFRIKAANSE PRODUKSIE

Eben Venter, Marlo Minnaar en Jaco Bouwer – Santa Gamka (KKNK en SOF)

Nico Scheepers, Cintaine Schutte, Milan Murray en Antoinette Louw – Amper, Vrystaat (Vrystaat)

Nicola Hanekom – In Glas (KKNK)

Wessel Pretorius – Die Dag is Bros (Innibos)

BESTE PRESTASIE IN KLASSIEKE MUSIEK

Esthea Kruger – Rising Star (Woordfees)

Kaapse Jeugkoor onder leiding van Leon Starker – Na Waters Waar Rus Is (Woordfees)

US-koor onder leiding van André van der Merwe – US-koor (Woordfees)

Zanne Stapelberg en Odeion-strykkwartet –  Odeion-strykkwartet met Zanne Stapelberg (SOF)

BESTE PRESTASIE IN VISUELE KUNS

Alex Hamilton – Jou Daaglikse Dosis en Opskiet by die Museum (Aardklop en Woordfees)

Nathani Luneburg – As die Vlooie Byt in La La Land (KKNK)

Sanell Aggenbach – Atopia (Aardklop)

Sandra Hanekom – Die Burger 100 Jaar-uitstalling (SOF)

BESTE MUSIEKGEDREWE PRODUKSIE

Al Lê die Berge Nog So Blou (KKNK)

In die Grond van die Wind (Aardklop)

Liewe Heksie: Flower Power (KKNK)

Nie As Ek Sing Nie: Laurika Rauch (Aardklop)

BESTE AANBIEDING

Amper, Vrystaat (Vrystaat)

Die Dag is Bros (Innibos)

In Glas (KKNK)

Son. Maan. Sterre. (Woordfees)

Die drie persone wat by die Fiëstas vir hul lewensbydrae vereer word, is Lida Botha (teater), Ronnie Samaai (musiek) en Pieter Fourie (woordkuns).

Die toekenning vir die gewildste fees asook die Blou Stoel-toekenning word by die toekenningsaand bekend gemaak.

Die toekennings word op 18 Februarie tydens ‘n glansgeleentheid by die Staatsteater in Pretoria oorhandig. Die geleentheid word regstreeks om 20:00 op kykNET (Kanaal 144) uitgesaai.

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