Claremont Dramatic Society Newsletter
12 Eden Road, Claremont 7708
Tel: 021 671 2242 Cell: 082 821 4353 E-mail: andrethomas@vodamail.co.za
http://www.claremontdramatic.wordpress.com
June 2011 – Number 99
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On Friday evening we went to see Ouroboros at the Baxter – the Handspring Puppet Theatre’s latest show. The attention to the details of how a person moves, was fantastic – you could tell a lot of work had gone into it. We all commented on how refreshing it is to see something new a different. So I encourage us all to see us much different types of theatre as possible – you invariably take something away from that you didn’t expect.
That said – we’re very excited about the impending opening of our own – CDS’s version of the Scottish Play! We move into the theatre next week, and open in under 3 weeks. Do come and support us!
Macbeth – update
Everything is well on track for opening night on Friday 01 July 2011 – rehearsals are flowing nicely, and characters are being tweaked. We’re all quite keen to get onto the stage now though, to find our space and get familiar with the dimensions. Su Cunningham gets a massive Thank You from us for allowing us the use of her school in Claremont for an intensive Macbeth rehearsal weekend!
Here for you a list of the cast & crew:
Role Name
Macbeth Clifford Graham
Lady Macbeth Michele Belknap
Duncan Mike Tompson
Macduff Sheldon Cross
Lady Macduff Jane De Sousa
Malcolm Dean Howarth
Donaldbain Christopher King
Banquo André Thomas
Fleance Jenny Brandt
Lennox David Sharpe
Ross James Skilton
Angus Paul Geddes
Siward Anthony Storr Lister
Seyton Jenny Brandt
Hecate Megan Carter
Witch 1 Su Cunningham
Witch 2 Maridi Jooste
Witch 3 Faeron Wheeler
Gentlewoman Allison Blair
Boy (Macduff) Matthew Sellier
Scottish Doctor Megan Carter
Sergeant David Sharpe
Porter / Old Man Nigel Sweet
First Murderer Graham Stabler
Second Murderer Paul Geddes
Apparition Keegan Frieslaar
Director Clifford Graham
Prod Sec. Leigh Mather
Stage Manager Wendy Goddard
Props Manager Angela Pratten
Audition notices
I’ve attached some audition notices at the back for you – including one for the new Claremont show, to be directed by Sue Bolton.
Member news
David Campey (our former treasurer) and Miné invite you to their wedding celebration on Saturday 18 June – see the last page for details and to RSVP.
Members’ subs and information update – Reminder
I’ve attached again a new membership form for you to complete and send back please. We would like to make sure we have everyone’s up to date details on file.
It goes without saying that your information is only kept on CDS files and is not shared with anyone else.
Member Evenings – reminder
Our next members’ evening will be on Friday 15 July, at 19h30 for 20h00.
For the first half of the evening, Guilma Stander of Siggi’s Make-up will teach three people from the audience how to transform three young ladies into three ‘old’ ladies through the effective application of make-up. She will give tips and tricks as she goes, which will prove invaluable next time you need to age up on stage. All the products used on the evening will also be available for sale, so you can stock up your make-up bag and replace all those stale Leichner 5 and 9 grease sticks…
The second half of the evening will see the ‘old’ ladies in a one-act play, ‘Café Society’, which is set in a café in Hackney.
The following Member Evening will be on Friday 30 September 2011 – so save that date please.
Get Thee to the Masque!
“Macbeth” – by Claremont Dramatic Society
01 to 09 July 2011 at the Masque
Performance Dates: Fri 1 July 20:00, Sat 2 July 14:30 &18:30, Sun 3 July 15:00, Wed 6 July 20:00,
Thu 7 July 20:00, Fri 8 July 20:00, Sat 9 July 14:30 & 18:30
Bookings: Masque Theatre Bookings 021 788 1898 O/H
“Driving Miss Daisy” – by Hottentots Holland Dramatic Society
19 to 30 July at the Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West (Book at Computicket)
“The Haunted Through Lounge and Recessed Dining Nook at Farndale Castle” – by MVDS
22 to 30 July 2011 at the Masque
“Forever Plaid” – the Pinelands Players production for their annual mid-year Candelight Theatre at the Pinelands Town Hall is directed by June Wells. 25 July – 7 August
Rock ‘n Rouge
07 August 2011 – one show only!
See you there!
Claremont Dramatic Society
Invites you to audition for
Separate Tables
Written by Terence Rattigan and Directed by Sue Bolton
Venue: ‘The Hok’ – under Claremont bridge
Date: Sunday, 07 August 2011 at 14h00
Production dates: 18 to 26 November 2011
The Plot
The action of the story takes place in a hotel in Bournemouth on the English South Coast in 1954.There are many permanent residents from all walks of life, many of whom are lonely, or needy. Miss Cooper, the manageress, is unable to remain aloof from their troubles, and endeavours to help them, or just give them the courage to face life. The characteristics and foibles of the diverse personalities are superbly brought to life by Terence Rattigan’s astute dialogue and understanding of people. The middleclass attitudes and morals of the 1950’s are important to uphold.
Cast
2 maids Mabel and Doreen (Both small roles)
Mabel Older, taciturn and dependable
Doreen Young, flighty and a chatterbox
Lady Matheson Well bred, but short of income. She appears mousey and retiring, but surprisingly her sense of “what’s right” comes to the fore in defence of anyone criticised by Mrs Railton-Bell. (Large part; Late 50’s – late 60’s)
Mrs Railton-Bell Arrogant, autocratic bully, who finds fault with everyone, and considers everyone beneath her. She has succeeded in intimidating her own daughter and has destroyed her self-confidence. Strong character role.
(Large part; age 50—60 years)
Miss Meacham Spinster – very independent. She is eccentric and addicted to
betting on the horses. She doesn’t give a damn about her appearance or whether she is liked by others or not. She does however have a surprisingly sensitive nature, and defends those who are unable to defend themselves. (Middle – aged)
Miss Cooper Hotel manageress. She is capable, efficient, kind. She finds herself unable to remain aloof from her guests’ personal problems. (Large part; Mid 40’s)
Mr Fowler A sad retired teacher stuck in his past. A pernickety bachelor who still clings to past pupils, and memories of his career. (Medium part; 65-70 years old)
Mr John Malcom He is an unhappy man – a divorcee trying to forget his past. His career has been ruined and he drinks heavily, but remains a very attractive man.
(Large part – in Act 1 only; Mid to late 40’s)
Mrs. Shankland Fashionable, very attractive, devious and spoilt but sexy. John Malcom’s ex wife. (Act 1 only; Early 40’s)
Jean Tanner and Mr. Stratton
An engaged couple in their 20’s. She is bossy, self-assured, and opinionated. He is studying medicine. In Act 2 they re-appear as a married couple, with a baby. (Smallish parts)
Major Pollack He hides behind a false façade of high birth and breeding to impress. In truth he is a misfit, living a lie, who is drawn towards Sybil Railton-Bell in sympathy for her plight.
Strong character role.
(Large part – Act 2 only. Late 40’s)
Miss Sybil Railton-Bell
Devoid of self-confidence due to her over-bearing mother, and
is also a misfit. She is attracted to the sympathetic major by
her own despair.
Strong character role.
(Act 2 only; Age 33 but looks 20)
Look forward to seeing you all there!
Any queries please phone Sue Bolton on 021- 7822506, or
e-mail psbolton@mweb.co.za
Audition
“Hay Fever” by Noel Coward
Directed by Alastair Duff
Sunday 19 June at 2.00pm in the Masque Foyer
Production dates 7 – 15 October 2011
Coward said that this delightful comedy, “ Hay Fever is considered by many to be my best comedy ….. at any rate, it has certainly proved to great joy to amateurs …. who seem to imagine that it is easy to act”.
Hmmmmmmmmm well whatever Coward says about it, Hay Fever is a very clever, very funny romp and an assured crowd-pleaser. It also provides a variety of parts for actors with a flair for comedy.
Cast : (The ages are approximate)
Judith Bliss 40–55,Lead Role A “retired actress who never stops acting and who has a flair for the dramatic moment.
David Bliss 40-55, Medium Role Her husband, writer of trashy novels and a man with a wandering eye.
Sorel Bliss 18-25, Large Role Their daughter, with a flair for the dramatic and a mercurial temper.
Simon Bliss 18-25, Large Role Their son, an artist – “he loves being difficult”, sulky one moment, charming and boyish the next.
Myra Arundel 25-35, Medium Role Simon’s guest for the weekend, a polished, attractive woman-bit of a flirt.
Richard Greatham 25-35, Medium Role Diplomatic and reserved, completely at sea in the Bliss household.
Jackie Coryton 20-30, Medium Role David’s guest for the weekend, somewhat shy and put-upon, defeated by the Bliss family.
Sandy Tyrell 20-30, Medium Role Judith’s guest for the weekend, a boxer, somewhat gormless, madly besotted with Judith.
Clara 30-50 Judith’s dresser, being the “housemaid” for the time-being on sufferance, a delightful smallish role.
All parts require a high standard of acting, comic timing and delivery. An English accent of sorts is a must.
ALSO NEEDED: Stage Manager, Backstage helpers, Costume, Props
CONTACT NUMBER: 021-7884984 or alastairduff@gmail.com
PINELANDS PLAYERS
Est. 1949 Inc. The Cape Town Repertory Theatre Society
P.O. Box 131, HOWARD PLACE, 7450
AUDITION NOTICE
Some eggs can’t be beaten!
A musical comedy in two acts based on the
THE UGLY DUCKLING by Hans Christian Andersen
Music by GEORGE STILES Book and Lyrics by ANTHONY DREWE
DIRECTOR: KYLA THORBURN MUSICAL DIRCTOR: JUSTIN WARDLE
Production Dates:- 7th to 17th December 2011 at the Little Theatre – Cape Town
and possibly
23rd to 26th February 2012 at the Masque Theatre – Muizenberg
Since it first hatched in 1993, Styles & Drew’s musical Honk! has winged its way around the world in over 8000 productions and in many different languages. A world-wide sensation that has been seen by over 5 million people. Honk! has won multiple awards including the 2000 Oliver Award for Best New Musicalbeating the Lion King and Mamma Mia for the prize.
Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Ugly Duckling”, “Honk! tells the story of an odd looking duck, Ugly, and his quest to find his mother. Soon after Ugly is born, he is seduced away by a wily Cat who wants to eat Ugly for dinner. Eventually, Ugly manages to escape but has no idea how to return home. Along his way, he encounters a beautiful swan, Penny, tangled in a fishing line. After saving her, the two birds fall in love. However, she must return to her flock and fly south for winter. Eventually, Ugly’s mother finds him frozen in the snow. Luckily her warm tears manage to thaw him out and he comes back to life – as a handsome swan! Soon, Ugly is reunited with Penny and they decide to live the rest of their days in the same pond as Ugly’s loyal mother.
The principal theme of the show is clearly the acceptance, compassion and understanding of others who may appear different for whatever reason. The main message is that being different is OK, it is something to be welcomed, embraced and celebrated rather than feared, misunderstood or persecuted.
Honk! is family entertainment that is fun for all ages – as much about people as about ducks.
Our wish is to make this a big cast:- 3 leads, 8 supports, a double cast of children’s chorus who double up as Duckling’s and Froglets and group of chorus members (age ranging from teenagers to mature adults) who will have an opportunity to perform the multitude of cameo roles that are available. If you wish to audition for more than one role, you are more than welcome. Rehearsals will start in September.
Please feel free to go into the creator’s website which is very informative and will give you a taste of what the show is about. Enjoy. http://www.stilesanddrewe.co.uk/honk
THE CHARACTERS
CHARACTER NAME TYPE OF ANIMAL GENDER SUGGESTED AGE TYPE ROLE VOICE TYPE NOTES
Ugly Signet / Swan
Male
16-30
Lead
Tenor Main character, who is shunned for his odd appearance
Cat Cat Male 16 – 45 Lead Baritone Sly & cunning (a villain)
Ida Duck Female 30 – 50 Lead Alto Ugly’s mother
Drake Duck Male 30 – 50 Support Baritone Ugly’s father
Bullfrog Frog Male 30 – 65 Support Baritone Laid-back, self-confident frog
Greylag Goose Male 30 – 65 Support Baritone Admiral goose, Dot’s husband
Maureen Duck Female 25 – 50 Support Alto Ida’s friend, a little conceited
Queenie Cat Female 16 – 35 Support Mezzo Domesticated cat
Lowbutt Chicken Female 15 – 50 Support Mezzo Domesticated chicken
Dot Goose Female 30 – 65 Support Mezzo Greylag’s wife
Penny Swan Female 16 – 30 Support Mezzo Beautiful Swan – Ugly’s love
Farmer Male 30 – 60 Cameo Spoken
Grace Duck Female 16 – 50 Cameo Most distinguished duck on the lake
Old Woman Female 40 – 80 Cameo Spoken
Mother Swan Swan Female 32 – 45 Cameo Mother to Penny
Maggie Pie (F) / Jack Daw (M)
Bird Male or Female 25 – 40 Cameo In your face reporter
Father Swan Swan Male 35 – 55 Cameo Father to Penny
Ducklings Duck Both 8 – 16 Kids Chorus Ugly’s siblings
Froglets Frog Both 8 – 16 Kids Chorus The bullfrogs kids
Barnacles / Pinkfoot / Snowy and more
Geese
Both
Any Adult Age
Chorus Members of the Goose Squadron
The Turkey Turkey Either Any Adult Age Chorus Afraid of Christmas
Henrietta Chicken Female 30 – 50 Chorus Friend of Maureen & Ida
Bewick Swan Either Teenager Cameo Brother/sister to Penny
WHAT TO PREPARE
One of the songs from Honk! – preferably one of the songs representing the character you are auditioning for (in your voice range). This is very important.
Please contact Tina Gough at Bgough@telkomsa.net or on 0827719644 to obtain copies of the music that you will need to prepare for the audition.
Please prepare!!!
WHERE TO GO
Pinelands Players clubhouse -The Crossing Road: Pinelands
FromForest Drive with mountain behind you, take first left after the Vincent Palotti hospital, left at the t junction into Sunny Road, right into The Crossing, brick building on left next to railway line.
WHEN – DATE & TIME
All auditionees are to arrive at the start time of the audition for administrative reasons. Everyone will then be taught a little dance as a group, and will be auditioned in groups for the dancing audition. After that, individual auditions will be held separately – so please a) wear suitable shoes and b) be prepared to stay the full length of time stipulated below.
Saturday 25th June (10h00 to 16h00)–Lead and Supporting Roles
Sunday 26th June (13h30 to 18h00) – Cameo’s and Chorus (no children)
Saturday 2nd July (10h00 to 13h00) –Cameo and Chorus Recall
Sunday 3rd July (13h30 to 18h00) – Lead and Support Roles Recall
Sunday 17th July (13h00 to 17h00) – Children’s Chorus (Ducklings & Froglets)
Please contact Tina Gough at Bgough@telkomsa.net or on 0827719644 to advise if you are going to attend the auditions. This is very important so that we can administer correctly and not waste your time. Tina will also be able to answer any questions or requests that you might have.
Looking forward to hearing you “Honk!”
Wedding service invitation
David Campey is getting married to Miné Norval next Saturday 18th June and extends a warm welcome to everyone who would like to celebrate the service at the Cathedral with tea and cake afterwards.
Please RSVP to this event on facebook http://www.weddingwire.com/daveandnay or via email to daveandnay.campey@gmail.com so they can ensure they have enough cake!
Wedding Day 18 June 2011
2pm
Service at St. George’s Cathedral
5 Wale Street, Cape Town
3pm
Wedding Cake & Tea in Cathedral Grounds
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