Directly from its success at Toyota US WOORDFEES last weekend in Stellenbosch, playing to standing ovations, and to sold out audiences, Maynardville Open Air Festival is for the first time in its 67th year history touring the production of A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM to Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre in Johannesburg.
For a limited run, this year’s hilarious, smash hit production of Shakespeare’s comedic masterpiece, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, will transport audiences into the captivating world of Athenian forests, where romance, mischief, and the whimsical realm of fairies collide in a tapestry of comedy and romance. Prepare to be captivated as this iconic play weaves a tale of love-struck couples, eccentric actors, and mischievous fairies, blurring the line between reality and fantasy.
This magical journey of love and self-discovery is rife with mistaken identities, playful gender swaps, magical spells, and mischievous pranks, all brilliantly portrayed by a cast many will recognize – including Chi Mhende and Mark Elderkin, and will be debuting paralympic athlete Caleb Swanepoel in the role of Puck.
The comedy explores the complexities of human relationships, the power of dreams, and the unpredictability of love, making it as relevant today as it was in Shakespeare’s time. Directed by the talented Geoffrey Hyland, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM promises to be one of the biggest hits to be seen in Johannesburg theatres this season.
“This is the best fun you can have. Go! Book! Enjoy!” – Weekend Special
“Fun, accessible, superbly staged, and performed!” – The Cape Robyn
Don’t miss your chance to step into this enchanting world of romance, mischief, and magic! Book your tickets now and be part of a theatrical adventure that will leave you spellbound.
Fresh from their successful tour of England in August 2023, father/daughter duo Adrian and Emma-Jean return to South African stages with their wonderfully entertaining new musical revue show, Striking a Chord.
The father/daughter bond is palpable as these two compelling performers take the audience on an awe-inspiring musical journey woven together with amusing anecdotes and thoughtful commentary. The show features the duo’s most popular covers, such as The Prayer, Time to Say Goodbye and Sound of Silence, musical theatre standards, like I Dreamed a Dream and Defying Gravity and unusual arrangements of classics Pie Jesu & Bring Him Home, Barry Manilow’s One Voice and I Write the Songs, as well as a classical mash-up that includes La Traviata’s Drinking Song and the classical standard O Sole Mio. The show runs for 70 minutes without an interval.
“I went to the first performance in London, and it was so fabulous that I had to go to the second performance in Tonbridge as well. Your incredible voices and amazing performances had us crying one minute and laughing at Adrian’s dad jokes the next. This is the best show I’ve seen in years.” – Michelle Welsh.
The Cast
Adrian Galliard and his 14-year-old daughter, Emma-Jean, shot to cyber fame in 2020 after a video of the duo singing the famous Andrea Bocelli/Celine Dion hit, The Prayer, went viral. They parlayed their cyber success into their first theatre show, Accidentally Viral, which played to sold-out houses at the Redhill and Hilton Arts Festivals in 2022. They are supported by veteran accompanist Neil Bennett.
Emma-Jean is now 16 years old and a consummate performer that belies her youth.
You’ll ‘Feel The Earth Move‘! An exciting show is heading to Cape Town and Johannesburg, promising to deliver a fantastic theatrical experience, filled with heart and soul.
VR Theatrical’s Jaco Van Rensburg, and show director Elizma Badenhorst, sat down with Dean Roberts to talk about the exciting new tribute show that will be hitting Pieter Toerien’s Cape Town and Johannesburg theatres in October and November this year.
DR: Following up on the success of ‘Here’s To You – The Simon & Garfunkel Songbook’, what made Carole King’s catalogue so attractive to you?
JVR: Apart from her world-famous Tapestry album, Carole King is a fascinating artist who not only made songs famous herself, but who wrote or co-wrote very many hits that nobody knows was her. Remember Kylie Minogue’s Loco-motion? I bet you didn’t know that that was a Carole King song!
What ultimately drew us to her work, was the fact that her songs are story-songs. They are all like one-act plays that takes the listener on a journey of discovery, making it the perfect music for a theatrical event.
VR Theatrical producer, Jaco Van Rensburg.
“Our diverse cast is not only excellent, but also lovely humans! It has been an absolute pleasure to create this production around their specific talents.”
DR: Carole King wrote more than 400 songs, 100 of which have hit the Billboard singles chart, how do you go about choosing the songs for the show?
JVR: I am very lucky to not have to make the final decision here. I leave that to the creative team, although I may have had some opinions and made some suggestions.
EB: Growing up, I loved music from the 60s and 70s. I had no idea who wrote them, I just knew I loved them, later in life I learned that Ms. King wrote many of my favourites. Going through her body of work was equally challenging, as it was a familiar stroll down memory lane. Choosing the songs was, indeed, a delightfully difficult task of mammoth proportions. But I must say, the concept took shape pretty quickly, and once we knew we were ‘up on a roof’ overlooking a city, the songs metaphorically ‘put up their hands’.
‘Up On The Roof – The Carole King Songbook’ director, Elizma Badenhorst.
“Storytelling. These women have a gift of telling stories through their music that any human can relate to in such an authentic way. The human condition addressed, but with exquisite melodies and harmonies to boot.”
DR: Artists such as Adele, Amy Winehouse and Taylor Swift have all credited Carole King as being one of their biggest influences… can you hazard a guess as to what the through line is with these fine artists music?
JVR: A good narrative. There are shoo-bee-doo-bee pop-songs and there are songs with lyrics like:
“When this old world starts getting me down
And people are just too much for me to face
I climb way up to the top of the stairs
And all my cares just drift right into space”
They’re relatable and timeless songs.
EB: Storytelling. These women have a gift of telling stories through their music that any human can relate to in such an authentic way. The human condition addressed, but with exquisite melodies and harmonies to boot.
DR: Your promotional material highlights an all-woman cast of singer-musicians who all work together to create these magical soundscapes, what was the casting process like?
JVR: Casting an original production is always strange and wonderful. Because there is no script, we could mould and shape the production around the specific personality and talents that we find – and boy-oh-boy are these ladies talented! Six gorgeous proudly South African women who deliver these timeless songs with excellence!
EB: The casting process of an original piece such as ‘Up on the Roof’ is always interesting to say the least, because the show doesn’t exist yet; you’re not casting a performer for a specific character. But there are so many things to consider. Their skills, their musicianship, their personalities, how will all of them work together; it’s a very intricate puzzle, and I must say, we have built an exquisite cast with our six phenomenal cast members.
DR: Carole King has been called THE greatest songwriter of all time, and being responsible for penning the soundtrack to our lives. Why do you think these well-written songs have stood the test of time?
JVR: She’s a great story-teller with an ear for writing a ‘hook’ – you know, that little bit of a song that gets stuck in your mind and that you can’t get out of your head.
Her themes are universal and timeless (often about falling in or out of love) and have emotional depth. While this all sounds very cerebral, her melodies are also catchy! I think the combination of all of these things make her music timeless.
EB: Ms. King has the ability to put words and melodies to universal feelings of love and loss, the ups and downs of life. We all know exactly what she’s addressing in her songs and most importantly, it then makes us not feel alone.
DR: The music of Carole King is especially comforting, and with themes of love, relationships, and the idyllic notion of what ‘home means… how have you considered these themes when selecting the numbers as well as the ensemble cast?
JVR: Our brilliant director, Elizma Badenhorst has come up with a clear concept that drives the overall narrative of the show. We did not want it to be ‘just another tribute show’ but rather to be thematically linked. Our musical director, Wessel Odendaal created original arrangements that emphasise the emotional impact of the songs.
Once the concept was established, i.e. a group of friends meet for a glass of wine on a ‘New York type’ rooftop and sing songs about their lives, the material sort of chose itself.
Our diverse cast is not only excellent, but also lovely humans! It has been an absolute pleasure to create this production around their specific talents.
This production features a cast of six multi-talented female performers including Ashley Butcher (bass, guitar, ukulele), Louise Duhain (piano/keyboards), Angelica Hattingh (guitar), Sanli Jooste (cello), Neo Motaung (percussion) and Tiisetso Sefatsa (percussion).
DR: Could we perhaps argue that Carole King is the perfect everywoman figure: an alto singer (too low for soprano voice and too high for a tenor), the perfect mix for soul music?
JVR: Yes! Unique is our Carole. Not only a brilliant songwriter, but also an exquisite vocalist in her own right, solidifying the singer/songwriter category in pop music history.
DR: How are you aiming to marry the sublime sounds of Carole King’s catalogue, with the staging of such a dynamic ensemble presentation?
JVR: The fact that we don’t have one person impersonating Carole King gives us scope to play with dynamic staging, interesting choreography and incredible vocal arrangements – all necessary to create an interesting piece of theatre.
Add to that a boho-chic inspired rooftop setting and theatrical lighting and you have a magic recipe for harmonic heavenliness!
EB: When the concept came to me, it all fell into place so seamlessly: six girl friends meeting up on a roof overlooking the city observing some people down below and commenting through Ms. King’s songs on what they possibly could go through, realising we’re all pretty much the same.
DR: ‘(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Women’ is a song that emphasises the route of self-discovery, of a woman’s natural inner beauty. How do you want the audience to leave the theatre ‘feeling’?
JVR: Things are tough out there and people are tired. This production guarantees to make you forget your troubles for at least two hours, to fill you with hope, heart and optimism and will make you leave the theatre feeling happier than when you entered! I can only describe the experience as a warm, glowing ember that will ignite the fire we all carry within ourselves.
EB: Uplifted…. And I guarantee this is what audience members will feel. They are going to hum along, laugh, shed a few nostalgic tears, but will definitely leave feeling better about life.
DR: Who will enjoy this exciting piece of live theatre?
JVR: You do not have to know Carole King’s catalogue in order to enjoy this incredible production. There is so much to listen to, look at and appreciate, from the beautiful setting to the gorgeous harmonies and the amazingly talented performers onstage. If you are the kind of person who enjoys any kind of live entertainment, there will be something here for you!
EB: This is one of the many things a love about Ms. King’s music. Whether you know her/her work, or not, you will enjoy her music. The range of styles this woman composed in is incredible: soul, folk, pop, rock, jazz, R&B and more. If you love music, you will enjoy this production.
‘Up On The Roof – The Carole king Songbook’ runs at Theatre On the Bay in Cape Town from 5 October and at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino theatre in Johannesburg from 1 November, 2023.
Direction & concept – Elizma Badenhorst
Musical direction & orchestration – Wessel Odendaal
Scenic design – Nadine Minnaar
Wardrobe co-ordination – Elizma Badenhorst
Lighting design – Kieran McGregor
Graphic design – Jaco Van Rensburg
Sound design – Christo Davis
Duration is approx’ 2-hours, including a 20-minute interval.
Age restriction: none.
Tickets are available from Webtickets or by dialling CPT (021) 438-3301 or JHB (011) 511-1988.
This spring you can enjoy the hilarious romantic comedy that was one of the longest running hits on Broadway.
Same Time, Next Year is a comic play that focuses on two happily married people – BUT, JUST NOT TO EACH OTHER! George and Doris meet for a romantic weekend tryst at a B&B once every year for 25 years. What follows is a snapshot of the ‘shortest long-term relationship’ ever.
This rom-com is a heartwarming but hylarious look at friendship, connection, passionate and platonic love and the unnerving rollercoaster of growing older.
Multi-award winning actor and comedian, Alan Committie, teams up with celebrated stage and screen actress, Sharon Spiegel Wagner, to portray George and Doris, respectively.
The production team includes direction by Christopher Weare (Fleur du Cap Lifetime achievement recipient) and design by acclaimed scenographer Niall Griffin.
Theatre impresario, Pieter Toerien, shares the following: “What a delight to re-introduce today’s audience to one of the classic Broadway comedies. In our current climate, a night of laughter and heart is exactly what our audience is looking for”.
Same Time, Next Year runs at theatre on the Bay from August 30th to September 16th and then has a limited season at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 20th September to October the 8th.
Bookings can be made through the respective theatres or through Webtickets.
Duration: 2-hours including a 20-minute interval.
Not suitable for under 16’s
Singer/songwriter Louise Carver, a passionate advocate of South African music, has curated a 75-minute production that transcends ordinary shows.
The show seamlessly blends iconic classics like “Paradise Road” & “Weeping” with newer hits & Louise’s own chart-toppers, creating a tapestry of soulful ballads, rock anthems & vibrant rhythms.
The carefully crafted setlist, storytelling & impeccable performances will transport you to a place of nostalgia & emotion.
With Louise on piano/vocals, Simphiwe Kulla on guitar/backing vocals & Kenny Williams on percussion, this powerful trio create an acoustic symphony that unites talent & passion, reconnecting the audience to their South African roots.
James Grace & Rocco de Villiers To Ignite Theatre On the Bay.
‘5 Nights in November’ with James Grace & Rocco de Villiers.
Pieter Toerien’s Theatre on the Bay from 15-18 November
Performances:
Wednesday 15 November, 8pm
Thursday 16 November, 8pm
Friday, 17 November, 8pm
Saturday, 18 November, 3pm
Saturday, 18 November, 8m
Guitarist James Grace and pianist Rocco de Villiers bring an unlikely collaboration of two musicians different in personalities, style, dress, hair and age.
But they meet in the middle of the musical landscape through that what they are in service of – music and theatre. Walking through this landscape they pause at destinations from Spain to Swellendam, Bach to Bothaville, Mexico to Mondeor and Bethlehem to Bethlehem in the Free State.
The 90-minute show is a celebration of hope, happiness, heritage and history – all facilitated by playing, joking, stories and reflection.
5 Nights.
2 Musicians.
1 Goal.
A note a minute.
A laugh a minute.
A joy a minute.
Not to be missed. Women, men and alternatives welcome.
VR Theatrical presents ‘Up On The Roof – The Carole King Songbook’
From the producers of the smash-hit show, ‘Here’s To You – The Simon & Garfunkel Songbook’ comes another magical theatrical event: UP ON THE ROOF – THE CAROLE KING SONGBOOK is a celebration of Carole King’s hit songs with fresh, new musical arrangements by our very own Wessel Odendaal.
Directed by Elizma Badenhorst and showcasing some of our industry’s most talented performers and instrumentalists.
With a canon of evergreen hits including ‘You’ve Got A Friend’ and ‘I Feel The Earth Move’, Up On The Roof is sure to have you singing and dancing in your seats.
3 – 19 August, 2023
Weekdays at 8pm
Saturday at 3pm and 8pm
After a sold-out season at Theatre On The Bay, Jonathan Roxmouth returns with KEY CHANGE.
Jonathan showcases the various piano-based comedians, singers and entertainers who have shaped and influenced his musical tastes through various phases of his life. Backed by a fantastic 5-piece band, Jonathan will be playing and belting out the music of piano rockers such as JERRY LEE LEWIS, ELTON JOHN, and BILLY JOEL, pianists like LIBERACE, and singers such as CAROLE KING, and FREDDIE MERCURY in a personal pianistic performance.
Age restriction: All Ages
Duration: Approx’ 2-hours incl. a 20-minute interval
It’s A Kinda Magic – Mzansi Ballet’s The Queen Show
Mzansi Ballet’s The Queen Show
Theatre On The Bay from 25 October to 11 November, 2023
Honouring a rock band that has stood the test of time, having inspired many generations to live their highest truth, “The Queen Show” is a family-friendly production that will thrill you with a kind of magic.
Boasting a diverse cast that has performed on some of the world’s best stages – from Brazil all the way to the United Kingdom – The Queen Show is fittingly deemed a “world-class” production. After capturing the hearts of Brazilian audiences in the ballet-meets-pantsula production, “Bengingazi”, choreographer Michael Revie delivers inspiring movement with his equally accomplished wife, Angela Revie, at his right hand.
Whether you’re looking for a show to love, a rhapsody of nostalgia, or even a kind of magic – “The Queen Show” will certainly rock you.
VR Theatricals’ charming production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol returns to Montecaisno and Theatre On The Bay.
Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 29 November to 10 December, 2023.
Pieter Toerien’s Theatre On The Bay from 6 to 16 December, 2023.
It has been described as ‘a sumptuous banquet for the eyes, ears and imagination; a sensory delight for any tired soul.’ This is the perfect show to celebrate humanity, family and above all, generosity of spirit!
Alan Committie and Sharon Spiegel-Wagner in Bernard Slade’s comedy ‘Same Time, Next Year’.
Pieter Toerien and Gloucester Productions present
‘Same Time, Next Year’
The hit play Bernard Slade
Cape Town: Pieter Toerien’s Theatre On The Bay from 30 August – 16 September, 2023
Jo’burg: Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from 20 September – 8 October, 2023
This Spring you can enjoy an hilarious romantic comedy that was one of the longest running hits on Broadway.
Same Time, Next Year is a hilarious play that focuses on two people, married to others, who meet for a romantic tryst once a year for 25 years. It’s a heartwarming but hilarious look at friendship, connection, love and growing older.
Alan Committie (award winning actor and comedian) teams up with celebrated stage and Tv actress Sharon Spiegel Wagner to play George and Doris, respectively.
Under the comedy direction of Christopher Weare and with design by scenographer Niall Griffin, Same Time, Next Year promises to be a fantastic night out at the theatre.
Duration: 2-hours including a 20-minute interval.
Not suitable for under 16’s
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