MARLENE LE ROUX
October is indelibly etched in my psyche because of Artscape’s ever-rewarding Outreach Programme which, this year, was in Riversdale. Read all about it, watch the video and have a look at the colourful photos on our website. But let’s move on to November, shall we?
Far be it for me to be the bearer of bad tidings by reminding you how few shopping days there are left until Christmas. I will however suggest that perhaps you would want to add to your stocking some theatre tickets because November and December promise yet another plenteous period for us at Artscape as we launch our summer season with some delectable delights to match that of the holiday season. The variety of what is on offer range from circus acts to throwbacks to the 70’s and 80’s and more…read on, dear reader.
We start the month of November with the Cape Malay Choir Board in the Opera House where we will be celebrating the Cape’s heritage in vibrant harmony – live at Artscape with a dazzling showcase of music, culture, and tradition. In order to feel this pulsating rhythm, you have to be there to experience it live.
Then the Opera House will host an electrifying fusion of music and circus acts! One of South Africa’s top musical acts, Freshly Ground, is reuniting after 13 years for this…to perform alongside the sensational Zip Zap Circus. This production, aptly titled Take Me Home, promises to be an unforgettable experience of trapeze, juggling, clowning, home-grown music and more.
We officially open our summer season with It’s Boogie Time again where you can don your platform shoes, bell-bottoms and tease your hair to high heaven like they did in the 80’s and join us in the Opera House from 19 to 23 November. Step into the groove to relive the magic of the disco era! Every year the Boogie show plays to full houses – an unforgettable musical comedy journey to the disco floors and soulful ballads that typified the 70s, and 80s. Featuring a live band, powerhouse local performers, and a splash of homegrown humour, it’s the ultimate entertaining evening out for the whole family.
It is all about laughter with Positive Strokes! This outrageous comedy will have you rolling in the aisles. The recommendation in their show description is to wear waterproof mascara. ‘Nuf said. And, you better keep on that mascara because there’s more comedy waiting to be unleashed. After sold-out seasons, Obed Plaatjes returns with Ambrose Uren, Phil de Lange, and more. Expect sharp wit, big laughs, and SA’s finest stand-up talent.
But laughter and comedy aside, we also have a serious side on offer when three fierce spirits reveal the stories of young women battling gender-based violence across cultures. Hidden/Currentis a powerful, urgent theatrical experience not to be missed in the Artscape Arena.
As the ambassador of the DoekWithADifference campaign, I urge you to join #DoekWithADifference Story Café on 15 November for expert insights, survivor stories, and vital discussion on cervical cancer awareness. All are welcome. RSVP to hipzone@mweb.co.za
One of our associated companies, The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra’s summer season opens this November at the City Hall with stirring symphonies, acclaimed soloists, and masterful conductors.
I shouldn’t really, but I can’t resist – December is just as plentiful! But I shall restrain myself and let those cats (get it?) out of the bag at the right time…suffice to say: the all-new South African cast of Cats was revealed just two weeks ago. And, by looking at that cast, already one gets all purry and furry. The very welcomed return of this iconic musical is going to set the Opera House alight with its dazzling choreography, iconic music, and a stellar local cast. You can read more about this and other December offerings on our website, www.artscape.co.za