With thanks to Montecasino and VR Theatrical, we have 2 sets of tickets to give away to Rock Of Ages, Coming soon to Montecasino in Johannesburg.

Broadway’s smash hit musical is set to rock the Teatro at Montecasino for the first time in this venue, from 26 September until 20 October 2019! Nominated for five Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, Rock of Ages captures the iconic era that was the big bad 1980s Hollywood. Featuring 28 nostalgic rock anthems including the music of Pat Benatar, Styx, Twisted Sister, Poison, Foreigner, REO Speedwagon and more, this production features a dynamic local cast as the larger than life characters and exhilarating story that turned Rock of Ages into a global phenomenon. It`s a sing-along, party show with tons of humour and a charming love story! Bookings only at Computicket.

Win one of two sets of double tickets to Rock of Ages at Montecasino’s Teatro on Sunday, 29 September at 6pm. Each prize comprises of two tickets valued at R600.

Rock of Ages Competition is now closed.  

Please Note:

1. This competition Closes on 24 September 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. The prize comprises of two tickets per prize 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 Rock of Ages appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Broadway’s smash hit musical, Rock of Ages is set to rock Montecasino’s Teatro for the first time from Thursday, 26 September to Sunday, 20 October 2019.  This jukebox musical features 28 classic rock songs from the 1980s including hits Don’t Stop Believin’, The Final Countdown, Here I Go Again and many more. As the humorous high-energy storyline unfolds, the audience takes a journey back to a colourful era while singing-a-long to rock anthems that come alive on stage. Rock of Ages is a feel-good stage production where audiences are rocking in their seats at every performance.   Tickets on sale at Montecasino.co.za and Computicket.

The extraordinary characters and roller-coaster story that turned Rock Of Ages into a global phenomenon are brought to life by a dynamic all-South Africa cast, band and production team. The star studded Rock of Ages cast features this country’s finest talent across the entertainment spectrum including musical theatre, television shows, concerts, movies and recording artists.

Vocalist, producer and WONDERboom band front man, Cito is cast as the male lead playing Stacee Jaxx with The Voice SA 2017 runner up, Josh Ansley in the role of Drew and singer, actor, director and producer Zak Hendrikz is Lonny.  Popular actor, writer and award-winning director, Neels Clasen is cast as Hertz and actor and drama lecturer, Matt Counihan plays the role of Franz. Twenty-one-year-old female lead Jessica plays Sherrie and Lois du Plessis in the role of Justice returns to South Africa after living in the USA for almost twelve years.

Returning from the highly successful CHICAGO The Musical world tour sees former West End and SA performer Craig Urbani, before he will head up the cast of The Rocky Horror Show, later this year.  Also, Natasha van der Merwe and Raquel Munn will be seen in principal roles with fellow CHICAGO cast members Alex Girard and Stefania du Toit joining Lara Kleynhans, and Chantel Stanfield to complete the female ensemble.  Thokozani Jiyane, JP Rossouw and Ryan Flynn are the male ensemble.

Produced by Montecasino in association with VR Theatrical, Rock of Ages combines the highly talented production team of Executive Producer, Jaco Van Rensburg; Director and Choreographer, Timothy Le and Musical Director, Wessel Odendaal, recently seen in the same role in Here’s to You, who leads the five-piece live band.

Nominated for five Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, Rock Of Ages captures the iconic era that was the big bad 1980s Hollywood. The nostalgic rock anthems include the music of Bon Jovi, Journey, Twisted Sister, Styx, Poison, Foreigner, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar and many other great rock bands – this musical truly is larger than life!

Rock of Ages is a rock ‘n roll romance set on the Sunset Strip in The Bourbon Room, the last epic venue where the legendary Stacee Jaxx returns to the stage and rock-n-roll dreamers line up to turn their fantasies into reality – celebrating a time.

Rock of Ages is a seriously mindless, ridiculously enjoyable glamour-rock musical that is not to be missed! It’s the hilarious book by Chris D’Arienzo that drives the piece. There’s great comedy, stellar performances and great music – all the ingredients of a great night out! Get your tickets at  www.montecasino.co.za, by calling Computicket on 083 915 8000 or at www.computicket.com   Owing to adult themes, a PG13 is recommended.

Rock of Ages

Montecasino’s Teatro.

Thursday, 26 September to Sunday, 20 October 2019

Show Times:

No Monday performances

Weekdays: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 20h00

Weekends: Fridays, 20h00; Saturdays 15h00 & 20h00; Sundays 14h00 & 18h00

Performance:  2 hours 30 minutes including 20-minute intermission

Ticket Prices including VAT

Midweek (Tuesdays to Thursdays and Sundays 18h00): R150, R200, R250, R300

Weekend (Fridays & Saturdays 20h00, Saturdays 15h00 and Sundays 14h00):  R200, R250, R300, R350,

Student Discount:

One ticket per person

Only available at Computicket outlets upon presentation of valid SA ID/Student Card:

Tuesdays to Thursdays at 20h00 and Sundays, 18h00 ONLY: R160, R200, R240

Bookings:

Visit Montecasino.co.za or visit the Montecasino Box Office

Computicket by calling 0861 915 8000, visit www.computicket.com or

visit your nearest Computicket outlets

Group Bookings (10+ Tickets)

Tuesday to Thursday at 8pm and Sunday 6pm ONLY
Computicket Corporate Bookings Department  011 340 8139 /011 340 8475

(Monday to Friday from 09h00 until 17h00) or email corporatesales@computicket.com

Important Notice:

No children under 3 years.

PG 13 years and under recommended owing to adult themes

The post Rock of Ages appeared first on Stage and Screen.

A nightclub singer, a double-murderess, a smooth-talking lawyer and a cell block of sin surrounded by the razzle dazzle of the world’s sexiest musical returns in 2019! You’ve got it Comin’ as the story of the award-winning Broadway and West End Musical Chicago unfolds to show-stopping songs including ‘All that Jazz’, ‘Cell Block Tango’ and ‘Mister Cellophane’. 

The multi-talented all-South African touring cast, band and crew started rehearsals in Johannesburg in July ahead of an international tour to New Zealand and China.  The South African leg of the tour in association with BBC First brings Chicago back to Artscape, Cape Town from 15 March until 14 April 2019, thereafter heading to Montecasino’s Teatro in Johannesburg from 20 April to 26 May 2019. Booking is open at Computicket.

After eleven years, this sensual, seductive smash hit musical returns to these venues bringing back one of this country’s most successful theatre productions.  And, back for the show are leads Samantha Peo and Ilse Klink, as well as Craig Urbani who reprises the role of the devious lawyer, Billy Flynn in South Africa while Jonathan Roxmouth plays this role in New Zealand and China. Also returning to the show is KJ Haupt with Carmen Pretorius and Grant Towers joining the company in principal roles.

Ensemble members from Chicago‘s  2005 and 2008 seasons, also returning to the show are husband and wife, Ferdi Gernandt and Diani Gernandt and Tandi Gavin as the Hungarian murderess, Hunyak.  The remainder of the Chicago ensemble features Lesego van Niekerk, Raquel Munn, Natasha van der Merwe, Brittané van Loggerenberg, Jenna Child, Alexandra Girard, Jarryd Nurden, Michael Fullard, Hugo Madeleyn, Craig Arnolds, Thamsanqa Njoko, Sibusiso Mxosana, Darren Greef and Stephan van der Walt.

Produced by Showtime Management in association with Barry & Fran Weissler and David Ian Chicago has a combined South African and international creative team including Associate Director, Tania Nardini and Re-creation of New York Production Choreography by Gary Chryst, both of whom have staged Chicago across multiple continents. Award-winning Musical Director, Bryan Schimmel will lead the 11-piece orchestra and the sexy, stylish ensemble will once again razzle-dazzle South African audiences.  This great musical is simply … Broadway at its best.

Chicago has everything that makes Broadway and the West End great – a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz; one show-stopping song after another, including Razzle Dazzle; the sexiest, most sensational dancing and a sharply sophisticated set which incorporates the live orchestra.

Chicago continues to be one of the most successful international musical hits of all time. Chicago‘s international appeal stems from its enticing tale of murder, greed, corruption, violence, exploitation, adultery and treachery-characteristics the entire world is drawn to.

Book now for Chicago 2019 by calling Computicket on 083 915 8000 or book on line at www.computicket.com  Computicket is the official ticketing partner for the Chicago ‘The Musical’, and tickets should not be purchased from any other supplier/outlets.

SHOW INFORMATION

Cape Town:

Artscape Opera House

Friday, 15 March to Sunday, 14 April 2019

 Johannesburg

Montecasino’s Teatro

Saturday, 20 April to Sunday, 26 May 2019

SHOW TIMES:

No Monday performances

Weekdays: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 20h00

Weekends: Saturdays 15h00, 20h00; Sundays 14h00, 18h00

SPECIAL PUBLIC HOLIDAY SHOW TIMES: 

CAPE TOWN:  Thursday, 21 March: 3pm & 8pm

JOHANNESBURG: Monday, 22 April: 3pm.

Wednesday, 01 May:  3pm & 8pm

TICKET PRICES including VAT

Midweek: R200, R250, R320, R400

Weekend:  R250, R320, R420, R500

BOOKINGS:

Computicket by calling 0861 915 8000, visit www.computicket.com or

visit your nearest Computicket outlet

GROUP BOOKINGS

20% Discount on groups of 20 and more – Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursday

and Sunday 6pm performances only valid for the top two prices.

Contact Jill Somers on 079 218 1658, sales@showtime.co.za

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: PG is advised owing to adult themes

MONTECASINO GROUP HOSPITALITY PACKAGES:

(20+ tickets) montecasino.reservations@tsogosun.com or 011 367 4250

The post Chicago appeared first on Stage and Screen.

With compliments of Showtime Management, we are giving away tickets to Chicago; The Musical, for both Cape Town and Johannesburg audiences.

Up for grabs, are two double tickets to the 20:00 performance on Tuesday, 30 April 2019, at the Teatro in Montecasino.  Each ticket is valued at R320, with a total value of R640.00 for the set… and it also includes All That Jazz…..

Chicago will be on stage of the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town from 15 March  to 14 April, before touring up to the Montecasino’s Teatro in Johannesburg from 20 April to 26 May.

This devilishly delicious musical and its all-South African cast has brought cheering audiences to their feet in New Zealand, across China and soon in South Africa. If you are not lucky enough to win the tickets through this competition, you can still get yours from Computicket.

Chicago Competition is now Closed.

Please Note:

1. This competition Closes on Thursday, 18 April 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. The prize comprises of two tickets per prize 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 Chicago, The Musical appeared first on Stage and Screen.

by Louw Mulder

There are only a few things better in life than to leave a theatre production where you have hit the epiphany of sheer entertainment. Taking nothing away from all the other brilliant theatre productions that stunned audiences this year, but with reference to Rock of Ages, now showing at the Lyric theatre in Gold Reef City, absolute enjoyment is included in your ticket price. Not only does the music comprise of well-known anthems for young and old, the story, humor and most of all, the presentation of all these elements, are the perfect ingredients for a fun and memorable night out.

In the last few years, VR Theatrical have produced numerous productions on SA stages, succeeding in entertaining and delighting audiences nationwide. We are talking about I Love you, You’re Perfect, Now Change, The Mysteries of Irma Vep, and forthcoming Johannesburg attractions in 2018 such as the hugely successful Hedwig and the Angry Inch, as well as Avenue Q, in association with Kosie House of Theatre.

“We focus on a younger audience, because it is important for theatre to keep up with the times”, Executive producer, Jaco van Rensburg told Stage and Screen after the show: “And even though our productions appear to be very edgy, audiences love them because people feel welcome when seeing these shows and they associate with the type of shows we play, which doesn’t exclude anyone. And mostly because it is fun!”

This time around, in partnership with Gold Reef City, they successfully brought Rock of Ages to the stage, with acclaimed response.

I do firmly believe that the success of this production, is mostly a result of the impeccable casting selection. I don’t think that the effectiveness of this show could have been so magical if it wasn’t for the versatility of all the actors in their various roles. The Headline act for this show, Josh Ansley, played the role of Drew, who falls in love with Sherrie, played by the super talented Claire Taylor. To throw a spanner in the works, is Stacee Jaxx, as sung by Andrew Webster.  He does show off his very well-defined body, but his talent, together with that of Ansley and Taylor, lies within their rock voices, that make most of these anthems, revived hits in their own right.

I could carry on about how I enjoyed the performances of the whole cast, like the physically excellent performance of Zak Hendrikz, the vocal powerhouse Nompumelelo Mayiyane, brilliantly with her quick scene-changes, Natasha van der Merwe, and the very camp Schoeman Smit, but I have to highlight two performances that stood out for me on the night. First was Neels Clasen, who is not a new face in a VR Theatrical production. In the role of German developer, Hertz, Classen’s versatility and expertise in accents and impersonations, added to the authenticity of his character.

Acting on opposite sides of the story, was club owner Dennis, played by Craig Urbani, who for me was undoubtedly the standout performance of the night. He fitted his character like a glove, and the noticeable effort he put into the portrayal of his role, was hysterical to watch. I personally, after seeing him recently in Saturday Night Fever and West Side Story, haven’t enjoyed Urbani’s talent as much as in Rock Of Ages… By no means do I suggest that his other roles were off par.

Louis and Nadine Minnaar were responsible for the Scenic Design. I was so impressed with many of the set elements, which in its over-the-top approach, was very effective. The impressive lightning design by Oliver Hauser set the scene for a true rock style musical. At times I felt as if though I was more rockstar groupie, than civilized theatre patron! Some scene changes were illustrated with various illuminating combinations, which made the flow of the storyline effortless to follow.   More than once, I caught myself enjoying various scenes so much, and laughing out so loud, I neglected to hear the many beautiful harmonies relating to those scenes. This, in my opinion, is reason enough to admit that seeing Rock Of Ages only once, is just not enough.

Adding to the constantly moving sets, were the choreography of Weslee Lauder, to complete the full picture. Lauder, brilliant on and off the stage, added to the je ne sais quoi of the show. It takes a certain type of character to make two 80’s rocker fellows fall in love, and at the same time, have the audience accepting everything happening on stage, reeling with laughter. Lauder was exactly the man for the Job.

The music was executed with distinction under the directorship of Wessel Odendaal. I am sure that each rock hit of that era featuring in this show, brought at least one or two memories to every audience member, irrespective of age. With the music of the 80’s being very diverse and quintessentially popular, Odendaal had the enormous task of directing the music in such a way, that the expectations of all 80’s music lovers would be met.  Odendaal, after the show, acknowledged that he is very thankful to have worked with such talented musicians as those appearing in Rock of Ages. Audiences should not expect replicas and cover versions of the original hits featuring in this musical, but can be sure to be entertained with fitting renditions of these songs, as part of a stand-alone musical production. Putting all these elements together, is Director Elizma Badenhorst, whose resume speaks for itself…

Rock of Ages has a rating of PG16, but van Rensburg said that the final call will ultimately be those of the youngster’s parents. From club scenes to public toilet scenes, from protests to the Final Countdown, there is something for every type of theatre goer in Rock of Ages, to make you remember and appreciate the music and energetic days of the 80’s. Rock of Ages will run until Sunday, 10 December 2017. For more information, especially on Group and Corporate Discount offers, please visit: http://www.stageandscreen.co.za/rock-of-ages/

Experience Rock of Ages in Pictures, with compliments of Gold Reef City.

The post Rock Of Ages appeared first on Stage and Screen.

From producer Jaco van Rensburg of VR Theatrical comes the high energy, sing-along, dancing in the aisle, feel good smash hit musical stage production of the year: Rock of Ages. Live at Gold Reef City’s Lyric Theatre from Friday, 17 November until Sunday, 10 December 2017, Rock of Ages is the multi Tony award-nominated Broadway musical written by Chris D’Arienzo… even better than the movie written by Hollywood!

“Rock of Ages is like a time machine. If you were young (or younger…) in the 80s, this show will take you on a journey back to that era and it is guaranteed to make you laugh! It is jam-packed with great tunes, amazing effects and a star-studded all-South African cast!” says van Rensburg. “Think shoulder pads, lycra, lots of stone-washed denim, tight leather pants, bright colours, permed hair and mullets…and you’re one step closer to defining the essence of the show.”

Taking audiences all the way back to 1987, to the fabled West Hollywood club, the Bourbon Room, Rock of Ages plays off in this seedy, sordid, vibrant heart of the Sunset Strip. The music venue has seen better days, but because it is run by chilled-out former rock impresario Dennis Dupree, and tended to by Dennis’s mischievous assistant, Lonny, it is the epitome of rock and roll.

When the bright-eyed young hopeful Sherrie Christian, a small-town girl who wants to make it as an actress, arrives in town, she bumps into Drew, a Bourbon Room busboy with dreams of rock and roll stardom. Love-struck Drew convinces Dennis to hire Sherrie, and the stage seems set for their romance. But when the Mayor of West Hollywood, persuaded by a couple of scheming German real estate developers, announces his intention to demolish the Bourbon Room and the entire gritty Sunset Strip, the stakes are raised.

Starring characters like Drew (Josh Ansley), Sherrie (Claire Taylor), Lonny (Zak Hendrikz), Dennis Dupree (Craig Urbani), Stacee Jaxx (Andrew Webster), Regina (Natasha van der Merwe), and Justice (Mpumelelo Mayiyane), Rock of Ages features an impressive set list of 28 songs, which will be performed by a live band, and led by Musical Director, Wessel Odendaal.

Needing no real introduction, runner-up of The Voice SA Season 2 and Rock of Ages male lead, Josh Ansley, discovered his passion for performing in his last year of high school when he landed the role of Kenickie in the school’s production of Grease. Shortly afterwards, he landed a part in the Harare production of Jesus Christ Super Star, followed by a gig in Zimbabwe’s very own pop boy band, 5Star. Josh has since appeared in various musical theatre productions, sung with numerous rock bands, opera companies, improvisational comedy shows and even recently starred in an Independent Short Film which garnered him a nomination for his portrayal of a United States Marine.

Rock of Ages female lead, Claire Taylor, has performed in theatres from Singapore and China to New Zealand and Hong Kong, has worked with an array of international directors and choreographers, and received a Fleur Du Cap Nomination for Best Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of Sally Bowles in the Fugard Theatre’s production of Cabaret. Claire was recently seen in the South African national touring production of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. Other theatre credits include West Side Story, The Sound of Music, Sunset Boulevard, Dirty Dancing and Urinetown: The Musical.

Zak Hendrikz is a multi-talented performer and creator, who has worked under the umbrella of numerous companies as choreographer, dancer, singer and actor. Apart from various film and TV credits, Hedrikz’s recent theatre credits include Liefling – Die Musical, Starlight Express, The Rocky Horror Show, Grease and Little Shop of Horrors, which earned him a Naledi Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

One of South Africa’s veterans of the stage, Craig Urbani has had an international career spanning more than three decades. After initial work in South Africa, Craig moved to London’s West End where he performed leading roles in musicals for over ten years, most notably Buddy in The Buddy Holly Story and Trevor Graydon in Thoroughly Modern Millie, and two Royal Variety performances. He also performed alongside Sir Cliff Richard at the London Palladium and for Sir Paul McCartney at Buddy Holly Week in London. Other theatre credits include The Rocky Horror Show, Hair, Fame, Grease, Contact (Laurence Olivier Award nominee), and Annie, among others.

“Rock of Ages is everything and more that you would expect from a pure, unadulterated rock ‘n roll musical production,” says Gareth Kaschula, Marketing Manager for Gold Reef City. “Under the expert guidance and direction of Jaco and his acclaimed team, accompanied by some of this country’s biggest and purest talent, the entire production is a feast for the young and wild at heart’s senses. Audiences can expect to be blown away by the vocal prowess of the cast as they belt out some of the anthems many of us grew up on, all masterfully interwoven into an intricate, laugh-a-minute storyline that will take you back to yesteryear.”

Rock of Ages

Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City

Tuesdays to Fridays at 20:00

Saturdays, 15:00 and 20:00

Sundays at 15:00

Ticket Prices range between R160 and R300.

Book through goldreefcity.co.za, Gold Reef City Box Office, and Computicket.

Warning: This show will contain scenes of Rock ‘n’ Roll debauchery – PG advised.

GROUP AND CORPORATE BOOKINGS – DISCOUNT OFFER:

Groups of 20 or more will receive a 10% discount off the ticket price – applicable to all price categories.

Group bookings will only be available at the Gold Reef City Box Office.

 HOSPITALITY PACKAGES – includes a show ticket, snack box, and drinks voucher

From R224 per person for bookings of 10 – 29 people

From R216 per person for bookings of 30 – 49 people

From R208 per person for bookings of 50 – 99 people

From R200 per person for bookings of 100 or more

TSOGO SUN REWARDS CARD – DISCOUNT OFFER:

10% off: Tsogo Sun Gold Rewards Card

15% off: Tsogo Sun Platinum Rewards Card

20% off: Tsogo Sun Black Rewards Card

The post Rock of Ages appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Riding through the royal forest of Sherwood on a glorious May morning, you don’t have a care in the world.  Then you hear a bird call, the faint rustling of trees, and suddenly a man armed with a longbow appears in your path.  He wears a feathered cap, or is that a hood?  You can’t see the man’s face clearly, but you don’t have to.  He is dressed in Lincoln green, the colour of Robin Hood – the most famous English outlaw of all time.

And now comes Janice Honeyman’s brand new pantomime adventure, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, on the stage of The Mandela at Joburg Theatre from November 5th to December 30th 2016.

The plot combines the babes-lost-in-the-forest story with the Robin Hood legend.  The young children, Hansel and Gretel, come to visit their uncle, the Sheriff of Nottingham, little suspecting that he is plotting their demise.  But never fear, help is at hand – in the shape of Robin and his Merry Men, plus Maid Marian and the Spirit of the Forest!

Playing the role of Robin in his first Joburg Theatre pantomime is Izak Davel, best known to TV viewers as Isidingo‘s arrogant Bradley Haines, and whose hit recordings include Verlei My, Is Jy In Of Is Jy Uit and Vreesloos.

Much loved panto star Desmond Dube returns to Joburg Theatre to play the jovial Friar Tuck, Idols finalist Bongi Mthombeni features in his fifth Joburg Theatre pantomime as the dandy Will Scarlet and leading lady of South African musical theatre, Kate Normington, will surely be wildly comic as Silly Sylviana, the Spirit of the Forest!

Also featured in Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood are Graham Hopkins as the villainous Norman the Nasty, Sheriff of Nottingham, L J Urbani as the ever-popular panto Dame Emmarentia Ugly, Phumi Mncayi as chief lieutenant of the Merry Men, Little John, award-winning actress Candida Mosoma as Much the Miller’s Son (written with an inevitable panto twist!), beautiful Carmen Pretorius as Robin’s love interest, Maid Marian, and Jaco Van Rensburg as the wandering minstrel, Alan-a-Dale.

Joining them in the all-South-African cast are, in alphabetical order, TeeKay Baloyi, Darius Engelbrecht, Clive Gilson, Nuritt Graff, Kyra Green, Dirk Joubert, Dolly Louw, Yamikani Mahaka-Phiri, Tsepho Ncokoane, Noni Nkonto, Dale Scheepers, Natasha Van Der Merwe and Maryanne Van Eyssen.

“It’s an exciting year for us when Janice Honeyman writes a brand new pantomime script,” says Bernard Jay, Executive Producer of the panto. “We don’t know exactly what to expect until the last minute, but we do know it will be full of her magical flair for story-telling, spectacular special effects, zany comedy and outrageous double entendres!”

Writer / director Janice Honeyman collaborates with producer Bernard Jay on their sixteenth Joburg Theatre pantomime together.  Rowan Bakker joins the team this year as musical director; Nicol Sheraton returns as choreographer; the eagerly anticipated, over-the-top, fabulous sets and costumes are once again supplied by Qdos in the UK; the lighting design is by Graham McLusky; sound design by Trevor Peters; and Timothy Le Roux is the resident director.  As with many past successful pantomime productions at Joburg Theatre, Claire Pacariz and Simon James serve as associate producers.

Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood has preview performances on The Mandela stage at Joburg Theatre on November 5th and 6th with tickets from R170.  Its official Opening Night is scheduled for Sunday November 6th and the season continues until December 30th, with tickets priced from R220.

Over 30,000 tickets have already been sold for this year’s panto, so best to hurry and get yours now for South Africa’s most popular family entertainment tradition.  Tickets are available by visiting www.joburgtheatre.com or calling 0861 670 670, as well as through Webtickets and at Pick ‘n’ Pay stores. For group bookings of 10 or more, contact the theatre directly on 011 877 6853/6815.

For details of the full schedule and performance times, visit www.joburgtheatre.com

TWITTER HANDLE:

@joburgtheatre

HASHTAG:

#RobinHoodPanto

The post Robin Hood appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Executive Producer Bernard Jay is proud to announce the completion of casting for South Africa’s first ‘non-replica’, professional production of the legendary disco musical, Saturday Night Fever. “We have an absolutely fabulous, world class company of all South African artists,” says Jay. “The crème-de-la-crème of the amazing pool of musical theatre talent we have in this country.”

Leading the company on stage at the Opera Theatre of the Pretoria State Theatre from September 13th will be Daniel Buys as Tony Manero, Natasha Van Der Merwe as Stephanie Mangano, Matthew Berry as Bobby C, L J Neilson as Annette, Craig Urbani as Frank Manero, Charmaine Weir-Smith as Flo Manero, Bongi Mthombeni as Monty and Kiruna-Lind Devar as Pauline. Also featured in the all-star cast are Joanna Abatzoglou, Cameron Botha, Vanessa Brierley, Clint Lesch, Londiwe Dhlomo, Keaton Ditchfield, Toni Jean Erasmus, Devon Flemmer, Zane Gillion, Nurit Graff, Nathan Kruger, Sebe Leotlela, Brandon Lindsay, Phumi Mncayi, Raquel Munn, Mark Richardson, Phillip Schnetler and Steven van Wyk.

Winning the highly coveted role of the iconic Tony Manero – made legendary in the 1977 movie starring John Travolta – Daniel Buys (Mamma Mia!, Jersey Boys, West Side Story) declared “my inner Bee Gee just came out at the auditions!”.

Saturday Night Fever is presented by The South African State Theatre and Bernard Jay. Direction is by award-winning Greg Homann (A Voice I Cannot Silence), choreography is by Weslee Swain Lauder, musical direction by Rowan Bakker (this year’s Naledi Award Best Musical Director for Sister Act), with set and lighting design by Denis Hutchinson, costume design by Sarah Roberts and sound design by Trevor Peters.

The original stage musical of Saturday Night Fever was based on Nik Cohn’s 1975 New York Magazine article Tribal Rites of the New Saturday Night and the 1977 film. The famous Bee Gees score – one of the best-selling movie soundtracks of all time – includes Stayin’ Alive, Disco Inferno, Night Fever, More Than a Woman, If I Can’t Have You, Nights on Broadway, How Deep is Your Love and Tragedy. The State Theatre’s production is a new version of the show adapted by American writers Sean Cercone and David Abbinanti: “We went back to the screenplay and edited it down,” says Cercone. “The songs needed to carry the emotional journey.”

Saturday Night Fever previews at the Opera Theatre from September 13th, with its official Opening Night set for September 16th. The season runs until October 9th. Tickets are on sale now at Computicket from R150. Visit www.computicket.com.

The post Saturday Night Fever appeared first on Stage and Screen.

by Louw Mulder

For Joburgers it may be a long drive to Pretoria, but Bernard Jay’s production of Saturday Night Fever will be worth the trip.

This uniquely staged production of the Paramount / RSO film featuring John Travolta, sets the scene for a disco-filled experience, featuring some of South Africa’s top theatre performers, and a creative team with numerous awards to complete the fever.

What impressed me the most about this production, was the set and lightning design, by multi-award winner Denis Hutchinson. No doubt that Hutchinson will be nominated for yet another few awards for the work he has done on Saturday Night Fever. He produced what I think is the most innovative and practical set I have seen, with the lighting design bringing the previous century’s disco era right in front of you. I am convinced that this set design will be setting the trend for future theatre designs.

Set in late July, 1977, Saturday Night Fever tells the story about Tony Manero, played by the very talented Daniel Buys. Buys came into the spotlight when he reached the finals of South African Idols, after which he proclaimed the sky as his limit. With a few theatre productions under his belt, like Mamma Mia, Jersey Boys and West Side Story, Buys held nothing back with this role – even showing-off his well-defined body, during a full costume change on stage.

Not shy of any credit, are the rest of the 30-member cast, under the dance captaincy of Vanessa Brierley. Saturday Night Fever features a diverse, and purely South African Cast, with names like Singin’ in the Rain’s Steven van Wyk, Aspoestertjie’s Clint Lesch, and Starlight Express’s Bongi Mthombeni, to name a few.  The gorgeous LJ Neilson, and perfectly cast Natasha van der Merwe, were amongst the fairer sex, fighting for Manero’s love.

Other names in this very diverse cast, include Matthwy Berry, Cameron Botha, Londiwe Dhlomo, Nurit Graff, Nathan Kruger, Phumi Mncayi, Toni Jean Erasmus, Charmaine Weir-Smith and Mark Richardson, to name only some.

But the performance of the night, must go to Craig Urbani for playing the duel role of Manero’s dad (Frank Manero), as well as Pete, the very camp and flamboyant gym instructor. Urbani’s experience was evident through his versatility on stage, and the demeanour he adapted complimented the role of the actors in the lead, as effectively as one can expect.   His role also contributed immensely to the humour element, which makes this role perfect for him.

Saturday Night Fever is known for its dancing, which makes the work of choreographer, Wesley Swain Lauder, a daunting task. Nevertheless, Lauder created steps and moves that got the whole audience on their feet, energetically executed by the cast he was given to work with. It was just sometimes a little difficult to focus on the main events on stage, with so many things happening at the same time. A busy stage tells a full story, but I think during one or two instances, it overshadowed the leads.

What made up for this minor piece of criticism, is the rest of the production. Award-winning MD, Rowan Bakker showed why he can be seen as one of SA’s leading Musical Directors.  Bakker, who recently lifted his baton in Sweeney Todd and Sister Act, took this score under his direction, creating the necessary sounds, energizing everything happening on stage, with his 10-piece band in the pit.  The sound design of Trevor Peters, Sarah Roberts designing the costumes, and Greg Homann as director, completed the creative team, adding fever to a Saturday night.

Overall, this production is a feel-good, sit back and enjoy musical, created to entertain. Saturday Night Fever is a Mirror-ball of South-Africa’s finest, reflecting all the good reasons why we can be proud of our own.

Saturday Night Fever will run at the South African State Theatre, till October the 9^th. Tickets are available at Computicket, but Stage and Screen is proud to give away 10 sets of tickets, for Saturday, 1 October. You can enter here.

Photos by Sanmari Marais

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Hot off of sold-out performances in Cape Town, the deliciously camp coming-of-age musical comedy Dragging 30 is about to liven up Johannesburg theatre goers, no matter which side of 30 they’re on.

Critics have called it “fun with a capital F” and audiences in Cape Town have flocked to see it! Dragging 30 is being hailed the next best fun night out since the invention of a girls’ night out. And now Johannesburg is in for the same treat when this fabulous piece of cabaret comedy explodes onto the stage at Auto & General Theatre on The Square, from 14^th to 26^th March.

We’ve all been there or about to get there, and when finally (or suddenly) the big Three Zero arrives it leaves you wondering “how did I get here?” You’re officially an adult. And if you’re single, unsettled and childless, 30 appears to be even more terrifying.

Dragging 30 is a coming of age musical comedy which takes you on a somewhat crazy and comical journey through the eyes of two women trying (in a panic) to come to terms with the idea of being 30-something.

With the help of fabulous Drag Queen Extraordinaire, Cadenza Jones, they realize that there is truly nothing more liberating than being yourself, living in the moment and owning your “fierce” at any age.

The performers – Genna Galloway (Grease, Beauty and the Beast, Cats, Sound of Music), Natasha van der Merwe(Mamma Mia, Sister Act, Spamalot, Peter Pan Pantomime) and Alain Fleischmann (Two and Half Queens, Two Queens and A Butt-lure) – have already received rave reviews. One critic wrote about Fleischmann’s drag queen, “There’s nothing like seeing all of that fabulous energy in sequins, a big wig and nine inch heels doing some serious booty shaking to chase your morbid thoughts away!” While another wrote about Galloway and van der Merwe, “The gorgeous devilish duo are most definitely South Africa’s super-hot sizzling ‘Ab-Fab’ girls, offering a wonderful dose of humour, hilarious escapades and some powerhouse singing.”

And the music adds yet another dimension to the cabaret-style production. With numbers like Pink’s epic Raise Your Glass and Meghan Trainor’s lively Dear Future Husband sung to perfection by the two women, Dragging 30 just becomes more energetic. Cadenza Jones belts out her own numbers, too, which is a refreshing take on drag queens who are known to lip synch their performances.

The costumes, sets and lighting create an intimate yet dazzling backdrop to this witty, flirty romp of a play.

Show times are Tuesday to Friday at 20:15 and on Saturday at 18:00 and 20:30. Tickets are R70 per person and booking is essential – book your tickets through www.strictlytickets.com or at the Auto & General Theatre on The Square box office. Find out more at www.theatreonthesquare.co.za.

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