Gold Reef City, SA’s beloved local entertainment spot with their infamous Theme Park, is bringing the colorful world of Dr Seuss to the Lyric Theatre, to inspire and entertain like never before with Seussical! If that isn’t enough, check out the magical line up of family entertainment at Tsogo Sun’s Gold Reef City.

Seussical

A tale from one of the world’s most beloved storytellers will be coming to life at the Lyric theatre, Gold Reef City, from 20 December this year, to 12 January next year. The colorful world of Dr. Seuss takes over the City, with tickets from only R100 each.

Previously, as part of the Dr. Seuss mesmerizing collection, you’ve loved The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, the Grinch and The Who’s. Now, meet Jojo: one kid with an unstoppable imagination, who brings together all your favorite characters from acclaimed family author, Dr. Seuss in a big musical adventure like you’ve never seen before!

From the Jungle of Nool to the tiniest planet in the sky, Whoville, to Circus McGurkus and everywhere in-between, will colour in this stage adventure, running for just over an hour. While never leaving our own backyard, Seussical is cleverly brought to life with the Naledi Award winning theatre company, in this brand new wildly theatrical production!

Seussical is suitable for the whole family. ages four and up! Rewards members enjoy up to 20% off the full ticket price.

@Movies at Gold Reef City:

Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf are back in Frozen 2 in 3D, and they’re going far into the forest to learn an ancient mystery about their kingdom. Also on the cards is Jumanji: The Next Level: The gang is back, but the game has changed. As they return to Jumanji to rescue one of their own, they discover that nothing is as they expect. Star Wars fans can look forward to Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, also in 3D, where the surviving Resistance faces the First Order once more. It’s all-out adventure and family fun at Gold Reef City this festive season!

More…

The Gold Reef City casino complex is constantly alive with excitement and energy. Enjoy thrilling gaming in the casino and stand a chance to win in one of our many exciting promotions. Watch world-class productions at The Lyric, or catch the latest blockbusters in our Victorian train station-themed Movies@ Gold Reef City cinema complex. Have fun in our action-packed Ten-Pin Bowling alley and enjoy mouth-watering dining at our wide variety of restaurants and fast food outlets. Our exhilarating Theme Park includes 18 thrill rides, 13 dedicated rides for the kiddies, Jump City Trampoline Park, the only authentic underground mine tour in Johannesburg and other great attractions.

The post Its All Happening at Gold Reef appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Born to Perform’s Shine 2019 is less than a month away, with over 450 talented young artists hard at work in rehearsals, preparing to blow audiences away as they take to The Teatro’s stage at Montecasino from Friday 13^th  – Sunday 15^th  September for just 4 shows only.

Be ready to be taken on a rollercoaster ride of fun and exhilaration while enjoying the astounding display of young talent in this year’s production of SHINE!

But Born To Perform is SO much more than “just” an opportunity for audiences to witness the energy and passion of young South African talent as they set the stage alight during the 2-hour show.

It is the culmination of many months (and years) of hard work, dedication of the artists and all those behind the scenes for the Joburg audiences to enjoy the end results of that hard work.

Born To Perform is also a place for young people to find their own journey through the Arts, giving them the opportunity for self-development and personal growth through their love and passion for the various performing arts genres.

Some of the highlights of what audiences can look forward to, are Yahto Kraft, recently a finalist in M-Net’s 3^rd season of The Voice SA, Zinah, John Tsenoli, and Philppa Higgins.  Added to this, there will be electrifying performances by more The Voice SA stars, like Craig Lucas and power-vocal-house, Thembeka Mnguni.

Exciting additions to this year’s line-up will be 20-year old Xae Memela and introducing upcoming artists Jamie Nell and Micah Stojakovic, both learners at Fourways High School.

The 450 young performers on stage will feature performances from Fourways High School, Mondeor High School, Curro Aurora – Sundowner and New Generation Pantsula Dancers from Alexandra.   Returning for another heart wrenching performance will be St Vincent’s School for the Deaf.

With material that includes songs from The Greatest Showman, Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen, as well as Justin Timberlake, Prince and Mozart, entertainment value will be high.

The show features a spectrum of musical and choreographic styles that will take the audience on a journey from pop to hip-hop, from ballet to rock ‘n roll to opera.

This is nothing short of a celebration! From ages 8 – 80, this is ideal family entertainment like no other!

A First at the Teatro – for 4 shows only! 

Experience the stars of tomorrow, on stage today!

The Teatro at Montecasino

Friday, 14 September at 20h00

Saturday, 15 September at 15h00 and 20h00

Sunday, 16 September at 15h00

The post Born to Perform 2019: Shine appeared first on Stage and Screen.

With thanks to the Producers of Born to Perform, we are giving away tickets to two families to go see tomorrow’s stars on stage today, during the 2019 SHINE performance by Born to Perform.

Born To Perform is also a place for young people to find their own journey through the Arts, giving them the opportunity for self-development and personal growth through their love and passion for the various performing arts genres.  Some of the highlights of what audiences can look forward to, are Yahto Kraft, recently a finalist in M-Net’s 3^rd season of The Voice SA, Zinah, John Tsenoli, and Philppa Higgins.  Added to this, there will be electrifying performances by more The Voice SA stars, like Craig Lucas and power-vocal-house, Thembeka Mnguni.

We have two sets of four tickets to give away to the performance on Friday, 13 September 2019 at 20h00, to be hosted by the Teatro, Montecasino, with a total prize value of R1 020.00 per prize.

Born to Perform Competition is now closed:  

Please Note:

1. This competition Closes on 06 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 Born to Perform 2019 appeared first on Stage and Screen.

Following the incredible success of SHINE! 2018, Born To Perform is excited to announce the show will be re-staged at The Teatro at Montecasino from Friday,13^th –  Sunday, 15^th September for four performances only.

Born To Perform was founded in 2015 by Gemma and Matthew Marinus as a platform to give young performers opportunities and experiences in the arts working alongside seasoned professionals, whilst allowing self-development and personal growth through the love and passion for various performing arts.

In 2018, Born To Perform played to sold-out audiences at The Lyric at Gold Reef City and they are thrilled to announce their new collaboration with Montecasino for 2019’s show, with some variations and unexpected new surprises, taking the show to the next level.

There’s nothing quite like witnessing the energy of 450 passionate young performers on stage, alongside celebrity appearances by The Voice SA Winner Craig Lucas and The Voice SA Finalist Thembeka Mnguni as well as a special appearance from Yahto Kraft from the current season of The Voice SA.

With material that includes songs from The Greatest Showman, Hamilton, School Of Rock, as well as Justin Timberlake, Prince and Mozart, entertainment value will be high. The productions features a spectrum of musical and choreographic styles that will take the audience on a journey from pop to hip-hop, from ballet to rock ‘n roll to opera.

Born To Perform artists John Tsenoli and Philippa Higgins, who gave standout performances in 2018, will return to set the stage alight with their original numbers. Tugging at the heartstrings once again will be a performance by Buddy Sacks, as they all showcase their young talent at its best, covering current and relevant topics with strong positive and transformative messages to the youth.

Popular Born To Perform star, ZINAH returns as the MC for the shows, keeping the audiences dazzled and captivated throughout.

This year’s line-up will feature another Born To Perform sensation Siyolise Mkondweni and introduce new upcoming artists Jamie Nell and Micah Stojakovic, both learners at Fourways High School.

The 450 young performers on stage will feature performances from Fourways High School, Mondeor High School, Curro Aurora – Sundowner and New Generation Pantsula Dancers from Alexandra.

Returning for another heart-warming performance will be St Vincents School of the Deaf. 

This is nothing short of a celebration! From ages 8 – 80, this is ideal family entertainment like no other!

Group School Bookings are available on request by emailing bookings@borntoperform.co.za .

Upon confirmation, Group School Bookings of 20 seats and more will receive the added benefit of a SHINE! Workshop delivered by Born To Perform, at their school.

A special performance made accessible for the deaf community will be taking place on Saturday 14^th September at the 15h00 performance, with an on-stage signer.

At this performance, audiences have access to the Opticon system for the hearing impaired. This facility is only available in specific seats within The Teatro, so bookings would need to be made directly with the Teatro Box Office on 011 510 7472.
Various Public Group Bookings and Tsogo Sun Rewards Discounts are available through Computicket.

Follow Born to Perform:

Website: www.borntoperform.co.za

Instagram : borntoperform.world

Face Book: https://www.facebook.com/Borntoperformgala

YouTube: Born To Perform TV

SHINE! 2019 is produced by Born To Perform NPC, Created & Directed by Gemma Marinus, Bryan Schimmel and Matthew Marinus with Design by Oliver Hauser.

With grateful thanks to Montecasino, Howard Audio, Gearhouse Splitbeam, The CoLab Network. Computicket, Kelsey Mastering and Justine Mac Photography.

A First at the Teatro – for 4 shows only! 

Experience the stars of tomorrow, on stage today!

The Teatro at Montecasino

Friday, 14 September at 20h00

Saturday, 15 September at 15h00 and 20h00

Sunday, 16 September at 15h00

The post Born to Perform 2019: Shine 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.

Make room for ogre-sized family fun as the greatest fairy-tale never told comes to life in the Broadway and West End hit Shrek The Musical which heads to Johannesburg for a limited season at Gold Reef City from 24 June to 17 July 2016.

From the producers of Little Shop of Horrors, Cabaret and more recently Sweeney Todd, KickstArt now brings Jozi audiences the musical stage adaptation of DreamWork’s global movie phenomenon Shrek!, set to delight old and young during the June/July holidays.

The talented local 28-strong cast will be bringing these instantly recognizable characters to life in this fabulous, fun, charming and hugely funny musical.  The leads are portrayed by Lyle Buxton (Cabaret, Annie, Beauty and the Beast, Sweeney Todd) as Shrek, Rory Booth (Xtrafactor, Puss in Boots, Aladdin) as Donkey and Jessica Sole (Cabaret, I Love You You’re Perfect Now Change, Orpheus in Africa) as Princess Fiona.

Also in the cast are Jacobus van Heerden (Popcorn, Little Shop of Horrors, The Ladykillers) as the diminutive Lord Farquaad; Graeme Wicks (Sweeney Todd, Aladdin) as Pinocchio; Charon Williams Ros as Gingy the Gingerbread Man and a ferocious fire-breathing dragon…. With a huge cast of fairytale characters, and a chorus of tap dancing rats!!

The stellar cast also includes; Ashleigh Harvey, Kyra Green, Luciano Zuppa, Samuel Hyde, Daniel Fisher, Tumelo Tokgwi, Senzo Radebe, Zchane Zietsman, Shani McLea, Sarah Richard, Caitlyn Thompson, Sarah Falconer and more.

The Johannesburg premiere of the hit Broadway show Shrek The Musical will be the first of many major productions to be staged at Gold Reef City following the completion of the recent multi-million Rand redevelopment; the premiere entertainment destination in the south of Johannesburg.

“The recent extensive refurbishment and expansion of Gold Reef City has created a perfect opportunity for us to stage this superb and larger-than-life Broadway inspired musical adaptation of the hit movie “Shrek”.  This magnificent production will feature a large cast, spectacular music and great humour that will delight both children and adults alike”, says Noeleen Bruton,  Director of Marketing – Tsogo Sun Group.

Shrek the Musical is directed by Steven Stead, designed by Greg King, choreographed by Janine Bennewith, lighting by Tina le Roux with musical direction by Rowan Bakker. It is based on the 2001 DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture Shrek! and the book by William Steig. The musical adaptation has book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori.

Shrek the Musical has become a global phenomenon with productions staged internationally including on the WestEnd and Broadway. With an enormous cast, a fabulous score; speedy set changes; extravagant costumes, prosthetics and make-up – this is quite possibly one of the most challenging and elaborate productions staged by multi-award winning producers, KickstArt. It promises to be quite extraordinary, deliciously funny and a joyous romp for the whole family!

The story revolves around a benign ogre named Shrek who lives contentedly alone in a swamp. However, his solitude is disrupted when a band of disgruntled fairytale creatures show up on his property after having been banished from the Kingdom of Duloc, on pain of death, by the evil Lord Farquaad.

Irritated by having to share his swamp, Shrek journeys to see Farquaad  with the intention of regaining his privacy. On the road, he rescues a talkative donkey who insists on tagging along to show him the way. Shrek and Donkey arrive in Duloc where Farquaad demands that Shrek rescue his intended, Princess Fiona. The two unlikely friends set off to save Fiona. After a quest involving a fire-breathing lady dragon, Princess Fiona is “rescued” from the tower by Shrek. On the way back to Duloc, Shrek and Princess Fiona get better acquainted and Donkey tries, unsuccessfully, to match-make them.

As Princess Fiona and Lord Farquaad are about to be married, there is an uprising from the fairytale characters, and Princess Fiona realises that Lord Farqaad is perhaps not her champion after all. And in the tradition of all good fairy stories, the villain is vanquished, the hero finds true love, and they all live happily ever after….

In the recent BroadwayWorld.com 2015 Awards, Shrek received two further awards; for best Costume Design (Greg King) and Best Family Friendly Entertainment.  And now it’s Jozi’s turn to enjoy this Shrektacular theatre production that’s been turbo charged as it brings a favourite movie to life on stage!  There is no better quality entertainment to be enjoyed in the winter holidays that’s ideal for everyone, not just the kids. A Broadway production at an affordable price!

Shrek The Musical is on at The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City

24 June to 17 July 2016.

Afternoon performances run from Wednesdays to Sundays at 14h30 with evening performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 19h30.

Bookings can be made at www.goldreefcity.co.za or by calling The Gold Reef City Box Office on 011 248 5000 or through Computicket.

Tickets range from R150 – R290.

A variety of discounts apply:Tsogo Sun Rewards cardholders enjoy instant savings: 10% (Gold); 15% (Platinum); 20% (Black).

Group bookings of 20 or more qualify for a 10% discount if booked directly with the Gold Reef City Box Office only on

011 248 5000.

Edgars Club card holders enjoy a 10% discount.

Shrek-tacular Show & Stay Deals are available at The Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel and include a delicious buffet breakfast at Barney’s Restaurant, access to all major rides and entertainment in the Theme Park, show tickets, and complimentary shuttle service to and from the casino complex.  Visit goldreefcity.co.za for information, contact Gold Reef City Reservations on 011 248 5700, or email Goldreef.reservations@tsogosun.com to book today.

The show runs for 2 hours 10 minutes with a 20-minute interval.

NO CHILDREN UNDER 4 YEARS will be admitted into the auditorium.

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