theatre

articles

• Nutcracker on Ice at Montecasino- spending the night
• African Adventure is great family theatre – review
• Mama Mia at Montecasino, a review
• The magic of African Tapestry
• Jock of the Bushveld on stage, family entertainment at its best!
• Shaka Zulu, The Musical : a review
• The Jungle Book fulfils only the bare necessities
• The Little Mermaid : a review

by Merle Dieterich, passionate mom and businesswoman whose 2 beautiful children, Lerato and Marvin never cease to amaze and teach her about what counts. You’ll find her at  jozikids.co.za

My daughter, husband and I had the incredible priviledge of experiencing what Montecasino calls their  Show and Stay Package including dinner, bed, breakfast, show tickets and a programme. Wow, what a treat, one I would recommend to anyone needing a holiday around the corner.

In as long as it took for us to reach the palatial splendour of Montecasino we felt the strains  and stresses of every day life melt away and were transported into another world.

First booking into a room that elicited oohs and aahs from my daughter who examined everything, the mirrors, square basin, a little stint trying out the bath and of course watching TV. Then down to the dining room  for a delicious meal.

Then onto the show performed by the award winning Imperial Ice Stars. From the word go the colourful costumes, grand sets and most of all unbelievable ice skating sequences had us captivated.

Yes, it lives up to the blurb on the Montecasino website. It is ” choreography that further raises the bar, with ever more breathaking high-speed leaps and throws and awe-inspiring, acrobatics, coupled with the most graceful and sublime ice dancing”

After all the excitement, what a pleasure to simply catch the lift to our soft comfortable beds upstairs and then awaken to the most divine breakfast before returning to the humdrum of daily life

Thank you Montecasino for  a a great Show and Stay.

by Martine Bauer,  part time working mom of an 11yr old girl and a  4 yr old boy,  passionate cook, reader and traveller. Visit her on Facebook

We recently took the kids to see the play African adventure and I really wanted to share our experience with your readers- all I can say is WOW!!! What a fabulous play. My 4 yr old, 11 yr old and us “ the geriatric parents” all had a wonderful time.

First off as we arrived there is an “interest table” in the foyer with all sorts of fossils/skulls/bones/pictures as well as a game ranger on hand to answer all questions popping out of enquiring minds- we could barely drag the kids away for the start of the play. The play itself was fabulous, the puppetry professional and there was enough “funny” to keep the kids and adults alike in stitches.

Then of course we had the moral story of protecting our rhino against poachers- so well done, it would be wonderful if all schools could organize a viewing for their learners. The best part- the play was only 60 minutes long ( no interval) and no time to get bored for a second!

Congratulations to all the cast and crew- I look forward to many more productions like this.

Many Thanks

by Ariellah Rosenberg, mom to three daughters (8, 13, 17), working at ORT SA  heading the Educators Empowerment division, can be found  on Twitter @Ariellah and her blog . Lifelong learner , Google Certified Teacher.

“Thank you for the music … for giving it to me”-  Thank you to the wonderful SA cast for giving us a local production to be proud of – Mamma Mia, a smash hit musical written by British Playwright Catherine Johnson, based on ABBA’s songs, and making  Ssouth Africa’s proud of their local talent.

If you are still sceptical about Mamma Mia and local productions standards – think no more when booking for Mamma Mia in Cape Town or Johannesburg.  The local cast all have  impressive South African theatrical backgrounds ,, and some of the lead roles include Gemma Donnelly, Christel Mutombo, Stephen Jubber (as Sky)- delightful when shirtless, Carmen Pretorius (as Sophie), Ilse Klink, Kate Normington, Murray Todd (as Bill), Neels Clasen (as Harry), Anrich Herbst (as Sam) and Gina Shmukler (as Donna).

Mamma Mia is known as one of the most sensational musicals of all times, with songs composed by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus.  Love it or leave it, the show has  so far been performed in 13 languages, and according to the web, over 40 million people have now seen the show, which has grossed $2 billion dollars worldwide.

When I went to the show at Monte Casino, I had no expectations whatsoever about the show itself.   After all, I thought, how can you compete with such huge productions worldwide and especially with the Mamma Mia movie,  led by Meryl Streep, Colin Firth, and gorgeous Pierce Brosnan.  Wow was I wrong!  Gina Shmukler, playing the role of Donna was OUTSTANDING and accompanied by an amazing performance by the rest of the cast, it was just irresistible and hard to keep to our seats without jigging to songs like “Dancing Queen”, “Take a chance on me”, “The winner takes it all” and about 20 other of ABBA’s songs.

The story is about Sophie who is in her 20’s , on her wedding eve, wanting her father to walk her down the aisle (or as my 8 year old daughter said “walk her in the runaway”).  She invites three possible fathers to the paradise Greek Island and starts her quest for her father’s identity. The show is embedded with humou satire and wisdom  .. look forward to the South African witty pearls implanted in this local production.

Whether you’re an ABBA fan or not, do yourself a favour, spoil yourself and your family and go enjoy this fABBAlous Show!

Thank you for the music, the songs I’m singing
Thanks for all the joy they’re bringing
Who can live without it, I ask in all honesty
What would life be?
Without a song or a dance what are we?
So I say thank you for the music
For giving it to me!

Mama Mia is on at Montecasino in Fourways until Dec 12.  Click here for more information.

by Fiona Ingram, a  South African writer who loves books, travel, animals, antiques, and adventures of all kinds! Read Fiona’s author site and find out about her recently published children’s adventure novel

The National Children’s Theatre has produced yet another gem of entertainment for children under the expert guidance of director Joyce Levinsohn. Embracing the vast expanse of Africa’s diverse culture and precious heritage, African Tapestry weaves a wondrous tale of life in this continent. But this production not only celebrates life in Africa; it also highlights the frailty of our unique ecosystem and the precious heritage that is fast disappearing unless we, the caretakers of our environment, do something about it and teach our children to follow suit.

These timeless and topical tales of Africa are told via a talented and energetic cast who engage beautifully with their young spellbound audiences. The actors don the simplest of animal costumes because it is their cleverly executed movements and sounds, as well as enchanting characterisation that bring the regal lion, the greedy elephant, the forgetful kudu, the (really Cape flats) Cape vulture, the silly young pelican, the slow old tortoise and others to life. The tradition of oral storytelling with vibrant songs and dances spreads a message of Africa. Through these animal tales, the young audiences appreciate each animal’s role in our lives, as well as learning life’s lessons.

So often, difficult or contentious issues can be explained to a younger audience via the medium of theatre. Education teamed with entertainment has a great influence. Teaching environmental awareness in a fun way to kids is edutainment that makes a lasting impact. Issues such as poaching, conservation of the environment and animals’ lives, planet pollution, recycling, and some basic lessons such as listening to one’s mom all come into play in this magical production. There is great audience participation here as the animals teach the kids how one can protect animals from poachers; how to recycle and clean up the environment; and how man and animals can live in harmony if everyone just tries hard enough.

This enchanting show captivates audiences with songs of Africa, from old favourites (Pata Pata) to new favourites (The Waka Waka song), and the infectious rhythms played on authentic hand-made instruments soon had those little feet dancing about. The proof of a good children’s production is in how it keeps kids interested. On the day I saw the show, the audience simply loved African Tapestry! They all wanted to help the actors and be part of the show. Children remember what they enjoy and this show had all their attention from start to finish with many eager young participants getting a chance to lend a hand in making the magic happen.

Don’t let your kids miss out on this marvellous piece of authentic theatre—African storytelling at its best.

Suitable for children from four upwards

Click here to find details about African Tapestry, on at the National Children’s Theatre in Parktown until Oct 9, 2010

by Fiona Ingram, a  South African writer who loves books, travel, animals, antiques, and adventures of all kinds! Read Fiona’s author site and find out about her recently published children’s adventure novel

The mark of a great story is one that stands the test of time and South African classic Jock of the Bushveld is one of those stories. Entertainment for all ages, Jock’s adventures have found their home on stage. Jock of the Bushveld: The Musical is pure enchantment. From the moment the theatre lights dim and the audience hear the night-time sounds of the bushveld, the magic begins. This is family fun and enjoyment at its best.

The wonderful saga of Jock and his exploits takes us into a mesmerising world. Clever costuming creates the impression of the various animals Jock meets—from the stately giraffe to the frenetically trotting warthogs, to the gracious hippo, to the hip troop of ‘gangsta’ baboons. Jock’s lessons in life are all learned in his environment, and from his encounters with both his friends and his enemies. He learns about courage, fortitude, how to hunt, the meaning of true friendship, trust, love and loyalty, and the value of keeping one’s word.

The cast give a brilliant ensemble performance, weaving their way seamlessly from one animal character to another, and also playing the humans that Jock encounters. The animals are beautifully portrayed with actors’ subtle movements. Somehow the wiggle of a rear conveys the typical gait of the Mister and Missus Warthogs plus kids, while the ambling of Mama Hips the hippo lets us know exactly who she is. Interestingly, Leopard enjoys Tai Chi…

It’s impossible to pick out ‘best’ actors because they are all so good, and their voices are a joy to hear.   Jock (Vaughn Gardiner) very ably portrays the brave-hearted, feisty Jock. The lady who steals Jock’s heart is a simply splendid French Poodle called Fifi, played by Suzzi Swanepoel. Fifi sings a rip-roaring ‘Hot Dog’ in one of the most enjoyable songs in the entire show. But the scene stealers just have to be the three vultures: Chérie, Boet and Bob. Reminiscent of the Three Fates and the vultures from The Jungle Book, they have some of the funniest lines and for good reason. Their pièce de résistance is a memorable song and dance routine called ‘Culture Vulture.’  Jock’s friend Chicken is another scene stealer.  Chicken is the friend everyone wants in times of need. Brave, loyal and faithful, Chicken overcomes her (natural) fear of bigger animals with lots of huge teeth, and performs the most unheard of deed such as seeking out Leopard when Jock needs help.

The show is peppered with many typically local jokes and references. Some adults may find their kids pick up these before they do! Look out for Bob-E-Jahn and his bold and brassy gang of baboons. The African bushveld, specifically the Kruger National Park where Jock ultimately meets his end, is portrayed with amazing simplicity. A rotunda moves the actors from one setting to another, drawing the audience into various locations such as the campsite, the river, the leopard’s lair, the baobab tree.

As anyone who has read the book will know, Jock does meet a sad end, but in such a way that he simply exchanges one life for another, leaving the audience a little heartsore, but satisfied. For parents who are keen to encourage their children to read, this show is a delightful way to begin. Children will love the show and very likely will be keen to read more because of course, there’s always more to the story in a book.

Age recommendations: All ages from about 8yrs old.

Jock of the Bushveld – The Legend Lives On is currently being performed at The Mandela at Joburg Theatre until Oct 10, 2010  Click here for details

By Sholain Govender-Bateman - an experienced news reporter, magazine editor,  freelancer,  loving wife to Barry,  mum of one beautiful girl, Isobel and someone with a passion for life and everything fun. Find her on twitter @sholain

Trying to merge South African history and theatre into an entertaining musical that appeals to a wide range of audience members is no easy feat, and unfortunately the creators of the current Shaka Zulu musical were not up to it. Whilst the narrator, Lindani Nkosi, and actresses Candida Mosoma and Nobunthu Mpahlaza, who play Nandi and Mkhabayi respectively, gave outstanding performances, other characters fell flat during the show that lasts over two hours.

The production, performed in English, shows the life of Shaka Zulu from birth to death and the set design and costumes are excellent. However, the story which includes Shaka’s brutal battles, family feuds and ongoing turmoil has lost a lot of historic value and impact in its now simplified form.

The first half  is fast-paced and exciting to watch whilst the second half drags on a bit as Shaka’s life draws to a close. There are a few funny lines that helped lighten the mood.

The music is original work composed by Johan Voster and has breathtaking moments as the cast harmonise. The solos by Mosoma and Mpahlaza are definitely worth going to the production and hopefully as the cast get more settled into their roles they will be able to give a performance worth remembering.

I don’t recommend this play for children below 12 years of age if you’re wary of introducing your child to the concept of violence too young. However, high school students may find the musical interesting especially if they are studying Shaka Zulu in their history lessons. As for adults, this isn’t the ideal date night production but if you’re keen on watching something different give it a try.

What: Shaka Zulu – The Musical
Where: State Theatre – Pretoria
When: From 26 June 2010
Cost: R145 – R245 (Computicket)

by Philippa Cross who would rather be outdoors than in, alone than in a crowd. She prefers dogs to cats, with a major leaning towards bulldogs. She hopes to win the Pulitzer prize for her yet unpublished novel. She started Thumb Media with a partner in June 2009. Visit her blog

The Jungle Book is on at the Peoples Theatre in Braamfontein until April 17th

The Jungle Book for me is as much about the fantastic soundtrack as it is about the story. What may have started as Rudyard Kipling’s tale is now, in my mind, firmly the property of Disney, and with that comes the wonderful Disney soundtrack.

The latest production at the People’s Theatre obviously encountered music usage rights issues when planning the production, because none of the music from the Disney version of the Jungle Book was included in the Show. The production staged at the People’s Theatre is based on the novel by Rudyard Kipling and not on the movie by Walt Disney. Big Big difference.

Jungle book without the music is like spaghetti without the bolognaise or vanilla ice-cream without chocolate sauce. It’s still Jungle Book, but not quite as delicious, not nearly as satisfying.

In keeping with the jungle theme, we went armed with banana leaves to wave at the stage at appropriate times. The excitement amongst the children in the audience was tangible, and my children have been talking about it for 3 days since we saw the show. For me it is always less about what is showing, and more about the whole experience. Usually, the show is brilliant. This time I am falling back on the experience.

Perhaps it’s a bit of an unfair criticism, but it’s based on the fact that my expectations were not met. I was expecting to sing along to the old favourites, and nothing suggested that the music from this wonderful production was not part of the show.

For my family, The Jungle Book story is undoubtedly the Jungle Book of Walt Disney Studios, music and all. Disney’s soundtrack has made Rudyard Kipling’s novel magical, beautiful and memorable. Doing a Jungle Book musical without it just didn’t work for me.

There were many good points. The cast were great. The music that was used wasn’t bad. The audience did enjoy themselves.  I remain a fan of the theatre, especially the children’s theatre. Going to a live production is an experience in itself, regardless of what you see. The atmosphere is wonderful. It is, in my opinion, a perfect family outing.  The Jungle Book experience is no difference. It’s worth going purely for the pleasure of watching a live production with your children.

But overall, as much as I hate to say it, the show fell short for this disappointed Disney Fan.

by Philippa Cross who would rather be outdoors than in, alone than in a crowd. She prefers dogs to cats, with a major leaning towards bulldogs. She hopes to win the Pulitzer prize for her yet unpublished novel. She started Thumb Media with a partner in June 2009

You’ve probably heard all about the shows on at the People’s Theatre at the Civic from time to time. If what you need is a push to just book the tickets and make the effort to go along these school holidays– I hope this will do it. It’s the perfect underwater adventure for land-based moms and dads who slave away all day.

It’s perfect for littlies (6 and under). I am just so delighted I discovered it. I feel like the best mom on earth (which I am).

Actually, I’m not. I’m usually too busy to even look into these things, let alone find a weekend that suits, and then book. If your family is anything like mine, trying to get it all together to attend a show is almost impossible, especially at this time of year. This is one experience that deserves the effort. The fact that there are two shows on a Sunday, a morning and an afternoon one, appeals tremendously.

We navigated our way through the road-works (a subject for a whole other day) in Joburg city centre, and arrived at the People’s Theatre to see The Little Mermaid.

An unforgettable experience awaited us. The theatre is special not only because of the magnificent shows it produces, but because of the world it introduces to children. It’s a delightful alternative to TV, to play station. It’s a wonderful opportunity to appreciate talent, and a chance to be transported.

Our precious little people can enjoy the entire theatrical experience from beginning to end. It’s all about them. But the joy I saw in them made my cup runneth over.

They get dressed up for the occasion (we had a number of mermaids in the audience), and have to wait in the foyer before the show starts. This involves excited mingling among friends and strangers, and buying and sharing of refreshments. Our party of 3 year olds made friends with some other littlies, and they all shared their jelly tots. (Except the pink ones. My son refused to share the pink ones.)

The bell rings, and the doors open, at which point they (with mom and dad’s help of course) have to find their own, pre-booked little chair.

The curtain is down, the lights dim, the theatre goes quiet. The excitement is tangible. The music starts, the curtain is raised, and an entire world is revealed.

I was so impressed with the quality of the production – something I’m sure didn’t occur to my 3 year old. But I noticed. Not an expense was spared. The costumes were so beautifully designed and made. The stage design and décor was world class. The performances were world class. I enjoyed The Little Mermaid at the People’s Theatre as much as I enjoyed the Phantom of the Opera at the State Theatre a few years ago. I even cried.

For the dads – I have to tell you, my husband (who is very manly, and not obsessed with pink jelly tots) enjoyed it thoroughly. I have no doubt he’ll come with us next time we go, which will be in March 2010 to see The Jungle Book.

Join the Kids Club.

Among other great benefits, For R70 a year, you can enjoy a free ticket on your birthday, and get called up onto stage.

For more information visit The Peoples Theatre on Jozikids.