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.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
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.
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