A new month means the arrival of fresh productions. And theatregoers have a smorgasbord of offerings to choose from.
On the back of its recent run in Potchefstroom, “Laaitie Mettie Biscuits” is headed to the Market Theatre.
Written and directed by Christo Davids (“7de Laan” fame), this compelling Afrikaans production centres on Noah, a teenager who, despite his learning disability, dreams of becoming a policeman and taking care of his mother as well as his community.
The play looks at the stigma he faces as a person living with a disability. It shines a light on human rights, societal prejudices and safety.
In a press statement, Davids said: “The question we must answer is: What and who is normal? Is Noah abnormal in a normal community? Or is Noah normal in an abnormal community...?”
Greg Homann, the Market Theatre’s Artistic Director, noted that this production presents an opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made as a nation in ensuring inclusivity and dignity for all.
“The Market Theatre has always been at the centre of critical conversations about topical issues. As a space, we continuously stage bold productions that prick at our collective conscience as a nation, hold authorities accountable and affirm our shared humanity.
“With courageous honesty, outrageous brilliance and contagious humour, ‘Laaitie Mettie Biscuits’ will awaken South Africans to the lived experiences of those on the periphery because they were born ‘different’,” Homann added.
Homann drew attention to the timeliness of this production on the back of the recent crowning of Mia Le Roux as the first-ever Miss SA with a disability.
The cast includes Wayne van Rooyen, Stephanie Baartman, Carla Classen and Joshwin Dyson.
The play is guaranteed to leave audiences emotional.
Where: Mannie Manim, Market Theatre.
When: Runs until October 27, 7pm.
Cost: Ticket prices vary between R100 and R200 and can be purchased through Webtickets. No under-14s allowed.
Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Ballet lovers are in for a treat as Joburg Ballet presents the world premiere of “Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” at the Joburg Theatre on Friday.
The 10-performance season is choreographed by Mario Gaglione, with an original music score composed by Mark Cheyne and performed live by the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra. Andrew Botha is the design consultant.
In a press statement, Gaglione said: “Creating and choreographing this ballet feels like finding my own golden ticket, a rare chance to share something magical! I hope it becomes a golden moment for every child – and grown-up – in the audience, filling them with joy and wonder they'll never forget.”
Cheyne added: “The story is iconic and universally loved by so many people. Since this is a direct adaption of the famous book by Roald Dahl, all the music is entirely original, orchestrated in the style of a traditional ballet. Fantasy is an integral part of traditional ballet, and this a ‘fantastical’ story, with larger-than-life characters and a plot full of marvels, mystery, magic and, of course, copious amounts of chocolate.”
Revil Yon and Monike Cristina, Ruan Galdino and Tammy Higgins, Ivan Domiciano and Ryoko Yagyu and Bruno Miranda and Cristina Nakos, are the leads.
The role of Charlie will be danced by Jayden Samuels, previously a student of the Joburg Ballet School and now at the National School of the Arts.
Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre.
When: October 4 until 13, 7pm.
Cost: Ticket prices vary from R240 - R580 and can be purchased through Webtickets and selected Pick n Pay branches.
Into The Woods
For a spellbinding experience, check out Stephen Sondheim's enchanting musical.
In this production, the stories from classic fairy tales like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and more, intertwine.
The cast of Kandemiri, Palesa M, JP Kloppers, Ruth Weiss, Isabella Sichart, Jaron Meyer, Caleb Meyer and Diaco Nell takes theatregoers on a memorable journey with stunning costumes and a magnificent set design, adding to the charm.
Where: The Irene Village Theatre.
When October 4 - 5, 10am, 2pm and 6pm.
Cost: R130 through Quicket.
Despicable Hehe
Conrad Koch and Chester Missing are back to tickle the funnybone for a limited run of “Despicable Hehe”.
Koch and his rabble-rousing puppet bring their newest hour of hilarity with old favourites like Mr Dixon, the high school teacher, and Hilton, the party ostrich.
Then there is Gunter the German tourist Mosquito; the world’s most dangerous dummy, Vladimir Putin, Vampire; and DJ Hoodie, the musical maniac.
Comedy lovers should be prepared to be rolling in the aisles for the duration of the show.
Where: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Main Theatre.
When: October 2 - 6, 7.30pm.
Cost: R150 - R220 through Webtickets.