This evening’s show is fast, furious, frenetic frenzy, not for the faint-hearted. As usual the one man show reveals Gaëtan Schmid at his rolling marvellous crazy best. Not only does he personify the world at large, but the individual of everybody’s body language, both personal, private and what we show our friends at foes. It certainly is an eye opener when you recognise bits and pieces of yourself. I did wonder on the night how many people saw themselves and were laughing at themselves or recognised and laughed at people they know.
After touring nationally and internationally for the last three years with the award winning and popular Rumpsteak Gaëtan moves from the food that delights us to the human gestures that unite us. As in The Dog’s Bollocks, Gaëtan in his very own hilarious and informative way will entertain audiences with the fascinating subject : the secret language of the human body. Fascinating… even if you don’t want it to, your body talks and talks and talks and it won’t ever shut up!
Anthropologically, sociologically, biologically, psychologically, neurologically, but not too seriously, Gaëtan will analyse the provenance and the hidden meaning of everyday gestures. Underneath its irrelevant and comical narrative body language, social message is on the ever increasing importance of human interaction and communication. Gaëtan says our entire social system is based on communication. If we can improve the quality of our communication we will improve the quality of our society.
As always, the Gaëtan’s shows are timelessly well seamed, red hot and meticulously primed. At the World premiere he had a very good audience to play his part and to react with the people he was entertaining. He reacts so quickly and puts himself in an audience. He takes you into one situation and you think it is going a certain way and surprise, surprise, it takes you down a completely different road, while you are racing and laughing to his cleverness of approach.
This show is a tour de force which only halts for the drinking of water and laughingly complains about the heat of the lights. We are then back on the race, which is pure fun and observation of one body part and the relation from your eyes, nose, hands and private parts. The poetic reaction to the words of body language shows the actor’s depth of not only these words but action and reaction to the farce. It is always a delight to see a true professional that he is when he has his one man act. Having seen Marcel Marcus over many years both in London and Paris I tried to equate the two acts and found it impossible, as one is silent mime and the other is a portrait as a mime artist talking, shouting and acting out his body language in a hysterical way. This must see show will tickle your fancy in many ways.
His mannerisms and gestures are sheer delight to behold!
Raymond E Meylan
Monday, May 9, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
A New Direction
I am very priveleged to be able to work in the performing arts as my day job. Strangely enough I do not come from a performing arts background, rather that of welfare administration. So you will understand when I say that I am passionate about administration.
No, not the filing and minute taking - essential daily activities which are the foundation of administration, but the bigger picture of building organisations, creating the better world to which we all aspire and creating strong sustainable programmes which will bring about that change.
A skilled administrator needs to wear several hats - the starry eyed visionary who can see the better world, the cautious, incremental implementer to make sure that programmes work, the financial whizz who can balance the books and manage the cash flow and the fabulous fundraiser and salesman who brings in the resources (not only the cash) to make the organisation work. Then there is the diplomatic staff manager and motivator and networker.
I am going to introduce articles on the business of the arts and share some of the fabulous blogs and sites that I am reading to keep up to date with this strange creature called the performing arts. I would really appreciate your comments and insights on the arts as it will help me to grow into the different hats to become a skilled administrator.
However there is still my true passion of Encore Entertainment Guide. This year I am going to start including my comments on shows that I attend - the original purpose of the blog. The grand plan got delayed when I got an attack of the doubts - who am I to comment on people's creativity. However, in the past 4 years of going to shows, I can honestly say that there is only one or maybe two shows that I didn't like. One was because I had no clue what was going on in it.
So welcome to the new Encore blog...
Angela
No, not the filing and minute taking - essential daily activities which are the foundation of administration, but the bigger picture of building organisations, creating the better world to which we all aspire and creating strong sustainable programmes which will bring about that change.
A skilled administrator needs to wear several hats - the starry eyed visionary who can see the better world, the cautious, incremental implementer to make sure that programmes work, the financial whizz who can balance the books and manage the cash flow and the fabulous fundraiser and salesman who brings in the resources (not only the cash) to make the organisation work. Then there is the diplomatic staff manager and motivator and networker.
I am going to introduce articles on the business of the arts and share some of the fabulous blogs and sites that I am reading to keep up to date with this strange creature called the performing arts. I would really appreciate your comments and insights on the arts as it will help me to grow into the different hats to become a skilled administrator.
However there is still my true passion of Encore Entertainment Guide. This year I am going to start including my comments on shows that I attend - the original purpose of the blog. The grand plan got delayed when I got an attack of the doubts - who am I to comment on people's creativity. However, in the past 4 years of going to shows, I can honestly say that there is only one or maybe two shows that I didn't like. One was because I had no clue what was going on in it.
So welcome to the new Encore blog...
Angela
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Jeremy Taylor in Concert
Last night I went to see Jeremy Taylor in Concert. My grandfather loved his music so it was very much a part of my childhood and I now have those original records. I proudly know all the words to Ag Pleez Deddy , Shoplift Girl's Lament Ballad of the Northern Suburbs and so many more.
Paul says that I have been in "groupie mode" for the past month since I learned that Jeremy Taylor was coming to Cape Town. So it was with high expectations that I went to the show. I was wondering if he would be as I remembered eventhough he is 74. I was not disappointed. He was fantastic and to my delight a spellbinding story teller. His Seff-Afrikan accent was perfect and it was fascinating listening to him change between that and his English accent.
The show was very interesting in that it was a look back to the South Africa of the 1960s with the funny songs but also some chilling moments of the times. A very telling statement was "It was a hard time for everyone... race was just the smoke screen for those who were seeking the power and control". He gave us a glimpse without judging, leaving that for the audience. I was struck by his compassion for people, the irony of the madness of the times and his love of South Africa.
It is a bit of history that is going to be forgotten. The Afrikaners were also oppressed and hurt during apartheid and things were not as rosy as it is made out. It brought out bitter sweet memories of childhood and growing up in South Africa
His poem "A night to remember" about the capture of Steve Biko was chilling and compelling. Of course the highlight was the final song Ag Pleez Deddy and it was wonderful to see how many of us in the audience knew all the words.
Back to the groupie mode - I couldn't help myself. One of the priveleges of the Kalk Bay Theatre is that the artists come up to the restaurant after the show. I heard Simon Cooper say that he might be reluctant to do so and found the stage manager to see if Jeremy could sign my records if he does not come up. Just in case I went to the stage door after the show where the stage manager assured me that he will be coming up to the restaurant.
Oh what a honour to meet him and talk to him. A real dream and to be able to thank him for the joy that his music has brought over the years. He very kindly signed both records and I even got a photograph with him. I am still thrilled the next day.
My criticism? The show was about 5 hours too short. I wanted him to keep on singing.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
If at first you don't succeed
I read an interesting article on delancyplace about the beginnings of the hit Broadway musical Oklahoma. A huge success and one would think a "no brainer". What I didn't know is that they could not get the finance to produce it.
It got me thinking about the freelance nature of the South African performing arts industry. How many amazing productions never see the light of day because they can't get backing finance? I was in a workshop with Marianne Thamm and she said that artists must be mad because they work when there is no promise of payment - doing it for the passion of creativity.
I am inspired by the Oklahoma story because it means you have to stick to your dream and make it happen even when no one around you is supporting you. Persistance pays off. To all our mad artists out there keep the faith.
It got me thinking about the freelance nature of the South African performing arts industry. How many amazing productions never see the light of day because they can't get backing finance? I was in a workshop with Marianne Thamm and she said that artists must be mad because they work when there is no promise of payment - doing it for the passion of creativity.
I am inspired by the Oklahoma story because it means you have to stick to your dream and make it happen even when no one around you is supporting you. Persistance pays off. To all our mad artists out there keep the faith.
Beautyfull
Wow!
If you want a GOOD heart-felt dose of Humility and Sheer Joy –enough to bring tears to your eyes…..this show is definitely right up there at the top of the list to go and see.
An indeed, beautiful collaboration between seasoned able-bodied professional dancers and dancers with physical challenges throws a graceful, bright and power filled light on the statement “never judge a book by its cover” as is so eloquently said in one of the scenes.
There is no one story-line; not much dialogue – it is after all about dancing. Perception of each scene is left entirely up to the audience – but believe me – one comes away from the show with the solid conviction that one can no longer look down on wheelchairs. That is their statement – exquisitely executed.
Regardless the challenge, each of these young dancers is the epitome of resilience, enthusiasm and passion. From a professional dancer, choreographer, and teacher - Andile Vellem who is deaf…..yes!...he’s deaf!! (How can that be a dis-ability when the music is not out there….it’s in his soul!); to the engaging humour of Malcolm Black, the co-founder of Remix whose dance accolades are numerous; to young Chaeli Mycroft of the Chaeli Foundation and many others, one is prone to forget their limitations as their abilities and personalities radiate on stage.
From the very able-bodied professional dancers of Jackie Manyaapelo, Refiloe Mogoje and Phindile Kula to the wheelchair support dancers; choreographer and director, Ina Wichterich-Mogane created a partnership of light-hearted and inspiring grace.
On stage - they are all thoroughly enjoying the experience…
…….…how can the audience possibly not follow suit?
From Marlene le Roux’s originally commissioned production of “Beautifull” in 2008, it has grown into a show of remarkable beauty in its third production. Here is hoping this will become an annual celebration of those who can teach us able-bodies a thing or two about dancing and enjoying the experience of living!
All very worthy of the standing ovation!
Leigh Armstrong Encore Entertainment Guide
If you want a GOOD heart-felt dose of Humility and Sheer Joy –enough to bring tears to your eyes…..this show is definitely right up there at the top of the list to go and see.
An indeed, beautiful collaboration between seasoned able-bodied professional dancers and dancers with physical challenges throws a graceful, bright and power filled light on the statement “never judge a book by its cover” as is so eloquently said in one of the scenes.
There is no one story-line; not much dialogue – it is after all about dancing. Perception of each scene is left entirely up to the audience – but believe me – one comes away from the show with the solid conviction that one can no longer look down on wheelchairs. That is their statement – exquisitely executed.
Regardless the challenge, each of these young dancers is the epitome of resilience, enthusiasm and passion. From a professional dancer, choreographer, and teacher - Andile Vellem who is deaf…..yes!...he’s deaf!! (How can that be a dis-ability when the music is not out there….it’s in his soul!); to the engaging humour of Malcolm Black, the co-founder of Remix whose dance accolades are numerous; to young Chaeli Mycroft of the Chaeli Foundation and many others, one is prone to forget their limitations as their abilities and personalities radiate on stage.
From the very able-bodied professional dancers of Jackie Manyaapelo, Refiloe Mogoje and Phindile Kula to the wheelchair support dancers; choreographer and director, Ina Wichterich-Mogane created a partnership of light-hearted and inspiring grace.
On stage - they are all thoroughly enjoying the experience…
…….…how can the audience possibly not follow suit?
From Marlene le Roux’s originally commissioned production of “Beautifull” in 2008, it has grown into a show of remarkable beauty in its third production. Here is hoping this will become an annual celebration of those who can teach us able-bodies a thing or two about dancing and enjoying the experience of living!
All very worthy of the standing ovation!
Leigh Armstrong Encore Entertainment Guide
Monday, September 20, 2010
Imagining Einstein
I was quite curious to see this production as the press release saud that it had played at the MTN Science Centre. "Interesting," I thought,"linking theatre and science." Not having being interested in science at school much of Einstein's theories such as quantum physics tend to go over my head.
It was a wonderful show looking at the different facets of a complex man. The ever curious scientist wanting to know how things worked and pondering the mysteries of the universe to the confused man "who wasn't very good at marriage". David Muller was briliant in bringing this icon to life and turning him into a real person dealing with the challenges of adulthood and war. I enjoyed the way the different experiments were incorporated into the show. I was not aware of Einstein's philosophy that any theory had to be simple enough for a child to understand. It was fascinating watching the different stages and challenges in his life that lead to the great discoveries which revolutionised science.
The Kalk Bay Theatre was perfect for the production, creating an intimate atmosphere for getting to know this giant of science. Although it was an entertaining evening, it reminded me of the importrant role that theatre can play in education about the world around us and not only on social issues or life skills.
It was a wonderful show looking at the different facets of a complex man. The ever curious scientist wanting to know how things worked and pondering the mysteries of the universe to the confused man "who wasn't very good at marriage". David Muller was briliant in bringing this icon to life and turning him into a real person dealing with the challenges of adulthood and war. I enjoyed the way the different experiments were incorporated into the show. I was not aware of Einstein's philosophy that any theory had to be simple enough for a child to understand. It was fascinating watching the different stages and challenges in his life that lead to the great discoveries which revolutionised science.
The Kalk Bay Theatre was perfect for the production, creating an intimate atmosphere for getting to know this giant of science. Although it was an entertaining evening, it reminded me of the importrant role that theatre can play in education about the world around us and not only on social issues or life skills.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
It Takes Two
The brief description is a journey through the great love duets from the 30s to the 90s. It was a great combination of beats with some unexpected oldies like "We're a Couple of Swells" from Easter Parade. There was a great audience who were singing along by the third or fourth number. You could see it feed into the energy of the artists who were superb. Caely-Jo Levy is beautiful and has the most wonderful vocal range giving full justice to the different numbers. Francois is always a pleasure to watch.
It took me a while to get going as I had a rough day and was taking a while to unwind. By the end of the show I was singing along and cheering. Once again I was reminded why it is so important to go to the theatre and balance out life's ups and downs. I came out feeling human again and ready to tackle the next day - a wonderful feel good night out.
I particularly liked the way that Francois got people to sing along, like with "Islands in the Stream", "come on you know the words". As you know I dislike it when the audience is forced to participate, he was more subtle and engaging and what the hell I did eventually sing along to "I've had the time of my life".
You know that you have had a good time when you get the "Is it over already?" response. Two encores later the show was over but I could have happily had another hour. Lovely light entertainment.
It took me a while to get going as I had a rough day and was taking a while to unwind. By the end of the show I was singing along and cheering. Once again I was reminded why it is so important to go to the theatre and balance out life's ups and downs. I came out feeling human again and ready to tackle the next day - a wonderful feel good night out.
I particularly liked the way that Francois got people to sing along, like with "Islands in the Stream", "come on you know the words". As you know I dislike it when the audience is forced to participate, he was more subtle and engaging and what the hell I did eventually sing along to "I've had the time of my life".
You know that you have had a good time when you get the "Is it over already?" response. Two encores later the show was over but I could have happily had another hour. Lovely light entertainment.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Joe Barber 5 - School Cuts - Baxter Theatre
What a wonderful night out! There is obviously a following - their 10th year - as people were singing along. Oscar Petersen and David Issacs capture the different characters beautifully. There is a seamless change between them - never missing a beat. I suppose it is a sign of the incredible professionalism that they were able to improvise and respond to the audience. I loved the quip "recession cut" in response to members of the audience with bald heads.
The theme of school reunions was a wonderful nostalgic trip back to school. It is amazing how many shared experiences there are. The annual interschools athletics competition was a scream. They played the different characters beautifully especially Whashiela with her hand in front of the mounth and strange interjections of English to sound posh. A lovely insight into the Cape Flats and current issues.
Go along for a really good laugh, but you might need to concentrate on some of the different accents.
The theme of school reunions was a wonderful nostalgic trip back to school. It is amazing how many shared experiences there are. The annual interschools athletics competition was a scream. They played the different characters beautifully especially Whashiela with her hand in front of the mounth and strange interjections of English to sound posh. A lovely insight into the Cape Flats and current issues.
Go along for a really good laugh, but you might need to concentrate on some of the different accents.
Antony & Cleopatra
Wow! A must see. As you know I am wary of Shakespeare at the best of times so I went with some trepedation. Initially I got lost in the language and then decided to take Yusrah's advice and just enjoy the story - and what a story!
It is fascinating to watch the consequences of this fanatical love in a highly charged political environment especially the downfall of the vibrant "red blooded" Antony. Cleopatra was splendid as the jealous, fickle lover. The person playing Octavius was chilling in his cold indifferent response to the emotions around him. I was captivated by the story and the different characters. On a lighter note - my admiration to the soothsayer who was holding the snakes - you can get my vote for bravery anytime.
Just be advised that the first half is really long 1h45min. The night we were there it was freezing cold so take warm clothes. It helps to buy the programme as there is a lovely summary of the play which helps to understand what is going on on stage.
It is fascinating to watch the consequences of this fanatical love in a highly charged political environment especially the downfall of the vibrant "red blooded" Antony. Cleopatra was splendid as the jealous, fickle lover. The person playing Octavius was chilling in his cold indifferent response to the emotions around him. I was captivated by the story and the different characters. On a lighter note - my admiration to the soothsayer who was holding the snakes - you can get my vote for bravery anytime.
Just be advised that the first half is really long 1h45min. The night we were there it was freezing cold so take warm clothes. It helps to buy the programme as there is a lovely summary of the play which helps to understand what is going on on stage.
Friday, August 28, 2009
A Rotating Culture Capital for Africa?
Mike van Graan has written an interesting article on the cultural capitals in Europe, America and the Arab world. The intention is to showcase the cultural life and development of the city for one year. It is used to promote integration and co-operation getting to know and respect the heritage of each other. Participating cities have found benefits in terms of tourism, cultural development, image-building, infrastructural growth, the attraction of skilled citizens to the city and sparking new enterprises. This issue will be discussed at the World Summit on Arts and Culture to be held in September.
Sounds good to me. I think that our arts community needs a boost like this. As South Africa is constantly building itself into a tourist destination, it looks like a win-win situation for all. Just imagine full houses at the theatres! It will also open links with the rest of Africa.
Sounds good to me. I think that our arts community needs a boost like this. As South Africa is constantly building itself into a tourist destination, it looks like a win-win situation for all. Just imagine full houses at the theatres! It will also open links with the rest of Africa.
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