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Gaslight – January 2012

Posted in G&S Newsletters on 28 January, 2012| Leave a Comment »

GASLIGHT
NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY
VOLUME 19, ISSUE 1 – JANUARY 2012
Hello everyone
Here’s hoping 2012 will be a good year for you and for our Society. The holidays are well behind us and it’s back to the oh-so-serious business of work and responsibilities, so it’s good to be able to look forward to the prospect of a lot of fun as we get stuck into YEOMEN. Speaking of which …

YEOMEN OF THE GUARD

The Cast has been settled and after a “Getting to know you” English tea party (at the invitation of the Queen, no less!) on 5th February, rehearsals get under way the next day! The Production team includes Teddy Davies as Director, Alastair Cockburn as Musical Director, choreography by Linda Gawronsky, and Bronwyn Scott as Stage Manager. Principal roles have been allocated as follows:

Sir Richard Cholmondeley Wyno Symes
Sgt. Meryll Stephan Le Roux
Jack Point Graham Boxall
Wilfred Shadbolt David Bolton
Col. Fairfax Ferdi Oosthuizen
Leonard Meryll Roderick Jaipal
Elsie Maynard Liesl Hartje
Phoebe Meryll Lara Milne
Dame Carruthers. Adri Louw
Kate Sian Atterbury

YEOMEN : Isak Viljoen, Shaun Holley, Anthony Storr-Lister, Derek Foster, Ken Leverton, Rehan Cloete, Steve
Broekman, Graham Ellis, Richard Whittaker, Gary Collins, Charles Meltzer, Waldo Buckle, Gerald Paris, Fanie Fourie.

CHORUS OF LONDONERS: Anke Ermel, Victoria Harris, Lorna Hansen, Cindy Nixon, Paige Bolton, Veronica
Miller, Ami-Rose Barber, Mariza Dique, Linda Thompson, Jonel Oosthuizen, Helena Comitis, Kirsty du Plessis, Linda Gawronsky, Marjorie Gibson, Andrea Benkenstein, Guilma Stander, Glenda Carmichael, Roche Buckle, Nicola Horak, Audrey Robinson, Philippa van Ryneveld, Justin de Vries, Douglas Middlebrook, Adrian Kettle,Dane Marais, John Lambrou, James Maritz, Alex Middlebrook, Darryl Spijkers, Adam Cousins, Christopher King, Zayne Cassiem, Ted Faulkner.

Congratulations to one and all, and especially to those who have been cast in a G&S production for
the first time.

CATA AWARDS
The nominations for the Cape Amateur Theatre Awards have been made, with a good sprinkling of candidates from FIDDLER. Our G&S nominees are:

ARTISTIC CONTRIBUTION – Roxy Levy
CAMEO PERFORMANCE – Darren Telford
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL – Phoebe Snayer, Ami-Rose Barber, Claire Simonis, Kate Olmesdahl
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL – John Carne, Daniel Fisher
BEST ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL – Julie Dickson, Michelle Galloway
BEST ACTOR IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL – David Bolton, Shaun Browne
BEST PLAY/ MUSICAL/ DIRECTOR – Teddy Davies
Warm congratulations to you all, and whether you win or not, we’re proud of you. Congratulations too to a number of our G&S members who have been nominated for work they have done for other Societies. We are delighted for you and wish you well at the awards ceremony, which is to be held on Monday 12 March at 19.00 at the Masque Theatre.

AGM
It’s that time of year again when we need to elect/re-elect members to the Executive Committee. The date is
to be Tuesday 13 March, and the venue is the Pinelands Club in Lonsdale Way, off Forest Drive in Pinelands
(turn off near the High School). This will be a good time to pay subscriptions, as only paid-up members are
eligible to vote.
A formal notice of meeting will be distributed nearer the time. The meeting includes the presentation of
Society awards. Please make an effort to be present. (There is a cash bar if an extra incentive is required!)

OPSKOP!
Well done to Pinelands Players (including many known to us in G&S) for a rollicking performance of HONK on
16 December. Those of our number who attended the pre-show social were well looked after – eventually. A
little glitch in the arrangements nearly meant we all went hungry, but Guilma and her team, through a
combination of no-nonsense aggro (!) and supreme creativity, persuaded the defaulting suppliers to make
good. And so, eventually, a good time was had by all.

Teardown report back
On the stifling evening of Tuesday 17 January, our Treasurer Lance Kotze presented the Production accounts
for FIDDLER. Apart from a gratifying surplus, we also heard that a total of some 20 000 people had seen
FIDDLER – a record for any G&S show. And at the final matinee, well over 1200 people were present in the
Opera House – again a record for any single G&S performance. Once more, well done and thank you to all
concerned!

Frederic’s birthday. All G&S diehards know what this is about, but there are a number of newcomers who have joined us for Annie, Fiddler and now Yeomen, who may not know what’s going on. A word of explanation is therefore in order:

The “Pirates of Penzance” opens with a band of pirates celebrating the coming of age of Frederic, who has now completed his apprenticeship and becomes a fullyfledged member of the pirate crew. However, Frederic, a ‘slave of duty’, puts a damper on proceedings by announcing that now that he is out of his indentures, he must, if he is to do the right thing, actively seek to exterminate the pirates, especially since he was
not actually intended to be a pirate in the first place. His father wanted him to be apprenticed to a pilot, but his nursemaid, being hard of hearing, mistook her instructions and instead apprenticed him to a pirate until his 21st birthday. Now that Frederic is 21, he plans to leave the pirates and pursue some more honourable occupation. In his quest to exterminate the pirates, he enlists the help of a bunch of policemen and Major-General Stanley (and his bevy of beautiful daughters).

While waiting for the policemen’s arrival, the Pirate King and Frederic’s former nursemaid (she of the hearing deficiency) inform Frederic that he has been freed from his indentures in error, and that he is still legally and morally bound to the pirates. For though it is true that Frederic has lived 21 years, the terms of his apprenticeship are that he be indentured until his 21st birthday. And the problem is that Frederic was born in leap year on the 29th February, and therefore, counting by birthdays, Frederic is only five and a little bit over. Frederic’s sense of duty forces him to accept this paradoxical situation and so he finds himself back in the pirate fold. However, he has by this stage also set in motion the forces of law and order against the pirates, and it takes a typical Gilbertian contrivance to sort out the confusion and bring things to a happy ending.

Marking Frederic’s birthday is one of the somewhat quirky things that Gilbert and Sullivan Societies the world over tend to do. And why should we be any different? So please note that you are invited to celebrate Frederic’s birthday on Wednesday, 29th February, at the home of Lorna Hansen, 15 Burnside Road, Tamboerskloof, from 19.30. The evening will include a birthday cake (of course), singing some excerpts from Pirates, and of course a rousing rendition of the Society’s anthem. A light supper will be provided, but bring your own drinks. If you want supper, it is essential that you RSVP to Lorna by Friday 17 February.

FROM SISTER SOCIETIES

From 10-18 February, MADS presents The Breakfast Club, at the Masque. Directed by Raymond Rudolph.

23-25 February, Pinelands Players are taking HONK! to the Masque.

9-17 March, also at the Masque, Claremont Dramatic Society presents Marvin’s Room. Directed by Brenda Gray.

All Masque bookings: 021 788 1898

And finally – rumour has it that one Ferdi Oosthuizen sang on stage with Josh Grobin during the latter’s concert in Cape Town recently – and that rumour has definitely not been ‘prodigiously exaggerated’ either. What say you, Col. Fairfax? Can you top that?

That’s it for now. Till next time, may life be indeed a boon.

Ken

EXCO:
Steve Broekmann – chair Niel Roux – Hon. Secretary
Lance Kotze – Hon. Treasurer Ken Leverton – Vice chair, Gaslight
Audrey Robinson – Social Guilma Stander – Membership and Social
David Bolton – Marketing Lynn Moss – Productions
Ian Kirkwood – Membership
Website: http://www.gilbertandsullivan.co.za

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Claremont Chat – January 2012

Posted in CDS Newsletters on 25 January, 2012| Leave a Comment »

Happy New Theatre Year 2012!

Here’s hoping that for each and everyone it will be a year of success in every creative endeavour!
The year ahead will give all our members an opportunity to shine as never before!

Normally I would either discuss the weather at this point or complain about how time flies, well just by way of a change I’m going to do something different. I’m going to point out the new email address for comments / correspondence with the Chat. Please feel free to use it to contact us should you have any queries, moans etc. Or if you just feel the need to pass the time of day you are welcome to drop a line or two to this address. Quick responses are not guaranteed, and a bit of forwarding may be necessary, but we’d love to hear from you!

I also need to apologise if you are finding the reading of this newsletter a bit slow. It took me ages to type it as I have a new computer that is taking a lot of getting used to.

Here’s a reminder of the main “attractions” for the year:
Marvin’s Room directed by Brenda Gray: Masque Theatre opening on 9 March. The film version ran on DSTV over December, the story both funny and poignant. However as in most film versions, a lot of license was taken. Stage versions are always better!

The Odd Couple (female version). Now this I am very curious about. The script is given a female slant without moving too far from the original plot. All the hilarious twists and turns are there. A word to the wise: It won’t help to get the original Walter Matthau/Jack Lemon DVD to catch up. The entire “ethos” of the piece is turned on its head by the girls. This time the director is Sheldon Cross. Incidentally there are two male roles in the play (remember Cecily and Gwendolin?) The audition notice is repeated for anyone who missed it.

We finish the year with Calendar Girls. A wonderful tale of community minded women affected by the dread disease cancer. The film won every heart. The play will too! This production forms part of a world-wide charity drive for cancer research.
The full story is on: http://www.seecalendargirls.com/amateur_rights/ Go on ladies you know you want to! Watch this space for audition details later this year.

CDS Updates online
Our online presence continues to grow:
Our blog (or website) is taking ever growing (in numbers) hits at http://www.claremontdramatic.wordpress.com.
Our Facebook page – make sure you go and “Like” it, the more likes we get, the stronger our Facebook presence becomes. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Claremont-Dramatic-Society/252816564804
Subscribe to: http://groups.google.com/group/claremont_dramatic_society/topics
Extra notifications and news (theatre in general) via The Monday Missile Dot Coza.www.mondaymissile.co.za or visit the Facebook Page: Monday Missile Dot Coza.

Members’ Evenings
Okay, I played truant and was not at the last committee meeting. That means that about member’s evenings, I haven’t the foggiest. I promise to get all the dates, details etc. as soon as possible and get the latest news to you via a “Mini Chat”. I also gave up smoking so I have lots of Noddy points!

2012 Production News:
Brenda Gray’s production of Marvin’s Room.
The production will open on the 9th of March at The Masque Theatre. Please diarise!
We need a Disneyworld style costume for ‘Marvin’s Room’ – any character will do, but it should preferably be one with an oversized head. If anyone has one, or knows where to get one, please contact Brenda on 021 686 3554
The Cast:
Marvin: Barrie Howard
Bessie: Julie Summers
Lee: Trish Sutton
Dr Wally: Dennis Benneyworth
Dr Charlotte: Sheila Inglis
Aunt Ruth: Ruth Allsopp
Hank: James Strong
Charlie: Quinlan Seegers
Retirement Home Secretary: Harley Spracklen
Bob: Nigel Sweet

Another diary note please: Audition Notice:

Odd Couple (female version)
Director: Sheldon Cross
When: Sunday 5 February at 14:00
Where: The Hok
What to do:
Auditions will consist of a prepared short comic monologue and selected readings from the script.

In this modern adaptation of Neil Simon’s 1965 Tony Award Winning comedy, Olive Madison, a successful television producer and slob, and Florence Unger, a meticulous housekeeper, superb cook and decorator, are complete opposites and are thrown together when Flo breaks up with her husband. The consequences are dynamic and hilarious.
The original “The Odd Couple” opened on Broadway in 1965 starring Art Carney and Walter Matthau and directed by Mike Nichols. The play led to a television series and a movie. “The Odd Couple (Female Version)” opened in 1985 starring Rita Moreno and Sally Struthers and directed by Gene Saks and ran for about a year.

The Players are casting for all roles comprising two leading women’s roles, four excellent supporting women’s roles, and two great supporting men’s roles, all in the 30+ age range.

The characters are:
Olive Madison – A successful television producer. She is intelligent, attractive, and wisecracking, with a good sense of humour – and she’s a complete slob when it comes to her surroundings. She has an encyclopaedic understanding of sports, is a complete pushover for her ex-husband, and a good friend.
Florence (Flo) Unger – is attractive, very well groomed, neat and has just broken up with her husband. She takes herself very seriously, likes to clean, decorate and cook and is very good at all three. Flo is also intelligent, although she doesn’t realize it, warm-hearted (in her own way), and has no sense of humour (at least about herself) – she does NOT make jokes. She can also, without meaning to, make Olive feel guilty.
Sylvie – is desperately trying to stop smoking, and so sucks on lollipops or chews gum. (Occasionally her jittery hands reach for a cigarette.) She can get irritated with her friends, but has a good sense of humor, especially about her husband. Oh, yes, she is pregnant in the last scene.
Renee – Sylvie’s best friend, can be very plain-spoken, especially when she points out Olive’s failings as a hostess – and then Flo’s. She is single and dating a doctor.
Vera – is very sweet, very nice, somewhat spacey, and, although quite smart, is often a step or two behind her friends. She’s very funny, but doesn’t realize it. Vera is married to Harry – and they are off to Miami in the middle of July because they can get better rates!
Mickey – is a police officer, who is down-to-earth, plain talking, and has a good understanding of people. Sometimes she can take the “police bit” too far and she tries very hard to be in control of all situations.
Manolo Costazuela -Spanish with a Castilian accent. He is every woman’s dream-date and showers both Olive and Flo with attention. He must have good comic timing, as he gets VERY emotional. He is sensitive and appreciates Florence’s sensitivity.
Jesus (pronounced Hay zoos) Costazuela – is Manolo’s younger brother – well-groomed, very romantic – and he also gets very emotional, and truly appreciates Florence.

For more information please contact Sheldon 072 596 8369 or sheldon_cross@yahoo.com.

CDS Annual General Meeting

Seems everyone is at it! AGMs everywhere. Still, ours is a highlight you will not want to miss it!

Tuesday 21 Feb at Kelvin Grove at 19h00 for 19h30. Ticket prices as follows: R110 and R90 for pensioners. The formal notice of the meeting and the agenda for this year’s AGM is below.

As the CDS AGM takes the form of a dinner and presentation evening at Kelvin Grove, we need to know exactly how many members will be attending. Please RSVP to Pamela Burger on 082 488 0442,
021 696 5959 or pamb@masterparts.com

After all the official business has been dealt with, we will be making our traditional awards to members who have excelled during the year’s productions. This year is going to be hotly contested.

The Nominees: (insert drum roll here…)
In alphabetical order:
Ruth Allsopp, Michele Belknap, Allison Blair, Sue Bolton, Sheldon Cross, Brian de Kock, Jane de Sousa, Gary Fargher, Clifford Graham, Brenda Gray, Vivienne Gray, Sheila Inglis, John McConnell, James Skilton, Anthony Storr Lister, Mike Tompson, Tayla van Blerck

You will also be asked to vote for the Members Choice Awards (Best Actor, Best Actress and Best Play), so give it some thought in the meantime. The actor/actress you vote for does not have to be among the list of nominees.

Subs are now due – R40 for members, R60 for couples, R30 for students and pensioners,
R45 for student/pensioner couples. Subs are payable at the AGM.

CATA Awards

The annual Cape Amateur Theatre Awards will take place at the Masque Theatre on 12 March 2012, assembling at 19:00 for a 19:30 start. Book for the evening by e-mailing Hayley Fargher: masquetheatre@mweb.co.za. or call 021 788 7911.

The Nominees:

ARTISTIC CONTRIBUTION
Dolores Spijkers – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Gillian Charman-Black/June Edwards/Cecil Jakins/Robyn Wainwright – The Crucible (MADS)
Kerry-Lee Knott-Craig – Godspell (Pinelands)
Wendy Goddard – Chapter Two (Milnerton)
Roxy Levy – Fiddler on the Roof (G & S)
Sue Bolton – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Kyla Thorburn – Honk (Pinelands)
June Wells – Honk (Pinelands)

TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE
Gary Fargher – Macbeth (Claremont)
Shelley Lombard and Anna Dennis – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Kyla Thorburn – Honk (Pinelands)

BEST SET
Vivienne Gray – Brief Lives (Claremont)
Wendy Goddard – Chapter Two (Milnerton)
Debbie Bentley-Buckle and Barrie Howard – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Dawn Innes –People Are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Debbie Bentley-Buckle and Barrie Howard- Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
Margi Blewett – August: Osage County (MADS)
David Davidson – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Kyla Thorburn – Honk (Pinelands)

CAMEO PERFORMANCE
Bryoni Currin – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Alric D Frost – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Nigel Sweet – Macbeth (Claremont)
Darren Telford – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Ruth Allsopp – Separate Tables (Claremont)

MOST PROMISING NEWCOMER
Anton Schäfer – Chapter Two (Milnerton)
Tarryn Sessions – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
John Bradley-Koopman – People Are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Nikita Claire McShane – August: Osage County (MADS)
Lynwen Kirby Roman – August: Osage County (MADS)
Tayla van Blerck – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Roche Haupt-Buckle – Godspell (Pinelands)
Kerry-Lee Knott-Craig – Godspell (Pinelands)
Darik Vélez – Godspell (Pinelands)
John Lambrou – Forever Plaid (Pinelands)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Lisa Squire Harris – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Isabel Byers – The Crucible (MADS)
Su Cunningham – The Crucible (MADS)
Sindiwe Magona – The Crucible (MADS)
Jana Both – The Doubting (Carnivals of the Heart)
Petra Scheme – The Sum of Us (Milnerton)
Pam Burger – Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
Felicity Purdon – Hay Fever (Fish Hook)
Jane de Sousa – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Jennifer Moss – Godspell (Pinelands)
Phoebe Sneer – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Ami-Rose Barber – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Claire Simonies – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Kate Olmesdahl – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Jennifer Moss – Honk (Pinelands)
Lesley Gill – Honk (Pinelands)
Laura Bosman – Honk (Pinelands)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Richard Higgs – The Crucible (MADS)
Neil Slater – People are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Mike Tompson – Macbeth (Claremont)
Anton Schäfer – The Sum of Us (Milnerton)
Richard Higgs – Hay Fever (Fish Hoek)
Patrick Jordi – August: Osage County (MADS)
Clifford Graham –August: Osage County (MADS)
James Skilton – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Byron Bure – Godspell (Pinelands)
Gary Kiewitz – Godspell (Pinelands)
John Carne – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Daniel Fisher – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Andrew Weiss – Honk (Pinelands)
BEST ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Gizelle Willows – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Tamara Richards – The Crucible (MADS)
Angela Lee-Wright – The Crucible (MADS)
Pamela Burger –Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Lisa Squire Harris – People are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Carey Wallace – Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
Michele Belknap – August: Osage County (MADS)
Allison Blair – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Sheila Inglis- Separate Tables (Claremont)
Julie Dickson – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Michelle Galloway – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Natisha van Zyl – Forbidden Broadway (Milnerton)
Chloe Kiley – Forbidden Broadway (Milnerton)
Bonny White – Honk (Pinelands)

BEST ACTOR IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Matt Browne – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Dean Howarth – The Crucible (MADS)
Bruce Sanderson – Chapter Two (Milnerton)
Dennis Benneyworth – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
James King – National Madness (Milnerton)
Gregory Parvess – The Sum of Us (Milnerton)
Anthony Storr Lister – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Darik Vélez – Godspell (Pinelands)
Richard White – Forever Plaid (Pinelands)
David Bolton – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Shaun Browne – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Sven-Eric Müller – Forbidden Broadway (Milnerton)
Christopher Thomas – Honk (Pinelands)
Richard White – Honk (Pinelands)

BEST PLAY, BEST MUSICAL, MOST ADVENTUROUS PRODUCTION, BEST DIRECTOR OF A PLAY, BEST DIRECTOR OF A MUSICAL
Darryl Spijkers – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Barrie Howard – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Darryl Spijkers – People Are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Angela Lee-Wright – Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
birga Thomas – August: Osage County (MADS)
Sue Bolton – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Roche Haupt-Buckle – Godspell (Pinelands)
June Wells – Forever Plaid (Pinelands)
Teddy Davies – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Kyla Thorburn – Honk (Pinelands)

News from Other Societies

MVDS AGM Wednesday, 25 January 2012, 19:30 for 20:00, at the Rendezvous (Old Zandvlei Bowling Club), 57 Promenade Road, Muizenberg. Snacks and the usual small cash bar will be provided. If you haven’t already done so please RSVP to birga Thomas on 021 7885272 or email birgatom@iafrica.com
MVDS Audition

‘SEASON’S GREETINGS’ BY ALAN AYCKBOURN

Director: Coleen Van Staden

AUDITION DATE: Saturday 11TH February 2012 at 14:30
PLACE: Rendezvous (Old Zandvlei Bowling Club), 57 Promenade Road, Muizenberg
CALLBACKS: Wednesday 15th February 2012 at 19:30
ENQUIRIES: Coleen Van Staden on coleenvs@vodamail.co.za or telephone 0721205645
DATES OF RUN: 1 to 9 June 2012 – Masque Theatre, Muizenberg
REHEARSALS: Start Monday 5 March 2012

PLEASE NOTE: Auditionees must prepare for the audition with prescribed readings which may be obtained from Coleen (as above). Female auditionees are encouraged to audition for a first and second preference role.

SYNOPSIS: The play is set in England and needs a talented cast of ensemble players who can bring out all the element of this Ayckbourn gem – farce, situation comedy and black humour– while manhandling mechanical toys, puppets, legs of lamb, a huge Xmas tree and on the odd occasion, each other! In the words of Ayckbourn: “Christmas is about log fires, Christmas trees, excited children’s faces, candle-light, the holly and the mistletoe. The Bunkers’ home has all these. It’s comfy and cosy and it swarms with children. Not the smaller, shorter variety though but the taller, older ones – currently going through the ‘awkward’ age, the twenty-five to seventy year olds. They’re all there. Fighting over their toys, clamouring for attention, bullying, sneaking and crying, then kissing and making up and generally getting far too overexcited, as they always do every year at Christmas. Season’s Greetings is a play about love and how unfair it all is. And success and failure. And jealousy and self-deception .And greed and envy and lust and gluttony. Just your average family Christmas.”

THE CAST (Ages are fairly flexible):
Belinda 30-45 Frustrated and uptight. An efficient but distracted hostess. Wants, but does not get, her husband’s attention and reassurance. A sudden infatuation presents a possible escape from her indifferent husband.
Neville 35-45 Belinda’s husband. Easy going and affable. Always busy fiddling with anything mechanical. Self absorbed and unaware of what goes on around him.
Bernard 40-60 a feeble-spirited doctor, obsessed with his dismal puppet show that is a complete failure every Xmas. Married to Phyllis.
Phyllis 35-50 Bernard’s lush of a wife and Neville’s sister – always tipsy, accident prone, flirty
Eddie 30-40 Friend and ex employee of Neville’s – not in the same league although aspires to be. Generally passive but underlying aggression. Immature.
Pattie 25–35 Eddie’s pregnant wife, largely ignored by him and rather hard done by. A bit of a nag.
Rachel 25–45 Belinda’s emotionally “challenged” sister – in love with Clive but is extremely insecure & unfulfilled in the love department.
Clive 30-40 writer, in a “tentative” relationship with Rachel –finds he is attracted to Belinda. Pleasant, attractive and single.
Harvey 50-70 30 years in the security “game” and obsessed with violence. Slightly senile. Nasty streak.

Not the Other Societies

Maynardville this year is an absolute experience! The Comedy Of Errors directed by Mathew Wild is colourful, funny and worth every second! My review is on:http://www.mondaymissile.co.za/reviews_brds.html

Get Thee to the Masque!

Jan 26 – 29 Cape Town City Ballet will present the final act of one of the most popular ballets of all times, “Coppelia”. Preceding this will be highlights from the CTCB’s latest creation, “The Italian Affair”. Choreographed by Robin van Wyk, Kirsten Isenberg, Nigel Lucas and Mervyn Williams, the ballet exploits the steamy passion of several well-known Italian love songs, woven into a fascinating love affair. There are four shows at the Masque: Thurs 26, Fri 27 and Sat 28 January. Weeknights 8pm, Sat 2.30pm and 6.30pm. Tickets are evenings R75 (R65) and matinee R65 (R55).
Feb 8 19:00 for 19:30 Special General Meeting of the Stern Masque Theatre Association
Feb 10 – 18 The Breakfast Club, a stage adaptation of John Hughes’ iconic 1985 movie, directed by Raymond Rudolph and presented by Muizenberg Dramatic Society at the Masque. Five young people with nothing in common are forced to spend a day together, in a setting from which they cannot remove themselves. Rated PG13 for strong language and adult content.
Sunday 12 Feb A Time for Love, Soiree presented by Playbill Productions in the Masque Foyer at 20:00. Tickets at R75 (R65).The outstanding young talents of soprano Maudee Montierre and baritone Thesele Kemane, with Victor Tichart at the piano. Students of Prof Virginia Davids will present a selection of love songs through the ages. A Valentine’s Treat!
Feb 23 – 25 Honk! A Musical Comedy presented by Pinelands Players at the Masque with direction by Kyla Thorburn and musical direction by Justin Wardle. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Ugly Duckling”, “Honk!” tells the story of an odd looking young duck, Ugly, and his quest to find his mom. Honk! is family entertainment that is fun for all ages – as much about people as it is about ducks. Tickets are R80 (R70) and R50 for under 12s.

Bookings: 021 7881898

Well that about wraps it up for January, the new computer seems to have behaved itself and so The Chat can be filed and go through all the other processes that will with all good fortune, wing its way to you. If you have any news, interesting or funny anecdotes that you would like to share with other members, please feel free to send them to me claremontchat@gmail.comAgain I promise not to laugh unless absolutely appropriate!

Scribing away,
Clifford Graham

Claremont Dramatic Society
Notice is hereby given of the 60th Annual General Meeting of the Claremont Dramatic Society to be held at Kelvin Grove, Campground Rd, Newlands on Tuesday 21 February 2012 at 19h00 for 19h30.

A G E N D A

1 Notice Convening the Meeting
2 Apologies
3 a) Minutes of the 59th Annual General Meeting
b) Matters Arising
c) Minutes of the Special General Meeting
d) Matters Arising
4 Chairman’s Report for the Year ended 31 December 2011
5 Treasurer’s Report for the Year ended 31 December 2010
6 Adoption of Audited Financial Statement for the Year ended 31 December 2010
7 Treasurer’s Report for the Year ended 31 December 2011
8 Adoption of Audited Financial Statement for the Year ended 31 December 2011
9 To consider any Motion from any Member of which due Notice has been lodged with the Secretary at least 7 (seven) days prior to this Meeting.
10 To Elect the Committee for the Year ended 31 December 2012
11 To Elect an Honorary Auditor for the Year ended 31 December 2012
12 To Elect the Stern Masque Theatre Trustee to represent the Society for the Year ended 31 December 2012
13 Any Other Business

Wendy Goddard

Chairperson

January 2012

Audited accounts and copies of the minutes of the last Annual General Meeting will be distributed before the start of the meeting.

All persons attending the meeting are requested to be present and registered by 19h15 to enable a prompt start at 19h30

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HHDS Newsletter – January 2012

Posted in HHDS Newsletters on 23 January, 2012| Leave a Comment »

HHDS Newsletter Janusry 2012

Showing next at the Playhouse:
Habeas Corpus
by Alan Bennett
Directed by Molly Mohr
10-18 February 2012 (6 performances only)
Book at Computicket

Habeas Corpus, Alan Bennett’s first play, is a comedy set in Brighton in the 1960s. Here the lust and longing of the permissive society has well and truly taken hold of the apparently respectable Wicksteed family. With a succession of characters ranging from a rampant doctor and a randy vicar to a frustrated flat-chested spinster and a baffled domestic cleaner, this rollicking farce is as saucy and English as a seaside postcard…

Cast: Garth Coetzee, Ann Coetzee, Julia Clegg, Margaret Lawrence, Martin Linnette, Malcolm Anderson, Wendy Walsh, Clyde Phillips, Daneall Lowe, Ahnestazia Borez and John-Gordon Hilton

Crew: Molly Mohr Director, Clifford Ekron Stage Manager, Clyde Phillps and Tech Crew Sound Jerry Juhuni, Vincent and Quinton Conradie Back Stage and props
More info on our website, click here.

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Time to get “In the Mood”

Recognised internationally and honoured by the American Big Band Hall of Fame, The Jonny Cooper Big Band is designated the Official Glen Miller Orchestra South Africa and was recently referred to in the International Big Band magazine ‘Big Band Buddies’ as ‘One of the best Big Bands in the world’.
Playing to full houses throughout South Africa, The Jonny Cooper Big Band recreates the Swing era of the 1940’s. Consisting of four trumpets, four trombones, five saxes and a rhythm section, the orchestra replicates the visual appeal of the Big Band is pushed to the hilt with waving trombones and shining trumpets moving in well drilled unison to drive home the riffs of Miller classics such as ‘In The Mood, String Of Pearls, Tuxedo Junction and Moonlight Serenade’. They also include other Big Band favourites of the era, with tributes to Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, Count Basie and Duke Ellington.

This is a joint fund raiser for The Playhouse and The Rotary Club of Somerset West. We are lucky to have him perform at the Playhouse for two shows only, so come and get “In the Mood” for what promises to be a memorable evening.

Show dates: 24 & 25 February. Tickets R180 and are available through Computicket. For more info call Molly on 0721354646

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AGM & Awards Evening

Dear members,
The committee has decided to combine the yearly AGM with our awards evening.
This will be held on Sun Feb 26 at 7 pm

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Our condolences for the death of Bobbie Balendon, member of the playhouse for years.

What’s on at the Playhouse … 2012

Habeas Corpus, directed by Molly Mohr February 10-18
Johnny Cooper Big Band February 24-25
German production by Norbert Schultze 14-19 March
Vahdini 23-24 March
Funny Money, directed by Giles Scott April

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MVDS Messenger – January 2012

Posted in MVDS Newsletters on 18 January, 2012| Leave a Comment »

I’m sure I’ve Happy New Year-ed most of you by now so I’m not even going there. My “last” newsletter prompted Lieske Bester to tell me that one of her two favourite endings is Scarlett in Gone with the Wind when she says “Tomorrow is another day…” which is one of those expressions which has fallen into everyday use and that then prompted ME to look for other expressions and where they came from …..

CAPE AMATEUR THEATRE AWARDS EVENING

The “Oscars of AmDram” will be announced at the above event to be held at the Masque on 12 March 2012, assembling at 19:00 for a 19:30 start. Smart dress would be preferable and you can book for the evening by e-mailing Hayley Fargher at masquetheatre@mweb.co.za. The full list of nominations is attached with the nominations for our productions hi-lited. Congratulations to all – nominees are encouraged to book early. Our society is providing the entertainment and thanks go to those involved who are currently hard at work. And receiving an award would, of course, be “a feather in one’s cap” – the placing of a feather in a hat has been a symbol of achievement that has arisen in several cultures, apparently independently, one of which is the Native American tradition of adding a feather to the head-dress of any warrior who performed a brave act.

UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS

Breakfast Club moves into the theatre on 29 January and help with set-building would be appreciated!! A number of our “newer” members have expressed interest in this aspect and they are encouraged to contact Shelley Lombard, who is stage-manager, on shelbee@iafrica.com or 0832819827, to find out how they can assist.

#*#*#*#*#

Our next production, Season’s Greetings, is in June and an audition notice is attached.

#*#*#*#*#

Claremont Dramatic Society will be holding an audition on 5 February 2012 at 14:00 at their clubhouse, The Hok, in Claremont for the female version of Odd Couple and further info can be obtained from Director Sheldon Cross on 0725968369 or Sheldon_cross@yahoo.com. The production requires 6 women and 2 men, all in the 30+ age range.

#*#*#*#*#

And I sincerely trust that the audition venues will be “packed to the gunwales” – pronounced ‘gunnels’ and often spelled that way – referring in small craft to a piece of timber extending round the top side of the hull. First used as literal references to heavily loaded ships, the non-nautical use of the phrase didn’t come about until the 20th century. A semi-figurative use was made of the phrase in the advertising for the 1944 Dorothy Lamour film, The Fleet’s In: “The Fleet’s In… and it’s loaded to the gunwales with the funniest, friskiest entertainment.” An example of a properly figurative use, i.e. one set on land rather than aboard ship, comes from The New York Magazine, June 1969: “A popular East Side bar, packed to the gunwales with arch young bankers and panicky, pathetic, ersatz Now girls.”

CALENDAR

20 & 21 Jan Soar like an Eagle, presented by Gladys Bullock at the Masque. Based on true life
events, this production showcases the beautiful dancing ability of both able bodied and disabled dancers. It should be seen by all dance lovers in order to appreciate what can be done in the face of adversity.
Sunday Classic Red, Soiree presented by Playbill Productions in the Masque Foyer at 20:00.

22 Jan Tickets at R75 (R65). Four fine voices in close harmony, accompanied by Wilna Viljoen on piano, present a program of opera crossing over to pop with something for everyone.

26 – 29 Jan Cape Town City Ballet will present the final act of one of the most popular ballets of all
times, “Coppelia”. Preceding this will be highlights from the CTCB’s latest creation, “The Italian Affair”. Choreographed by Robin van Wyk, Kirsten Isenberg, Nigel Lucas and Mervyn Williams, the ballet exploits the steamy passion of several well-known Italian lovesongs, woven into a fascinating love affair. Includes the old favourite, “That’s Amore”, which will have feet a-tapping, along with other steamy numbers from this very successful ballet recently performed at Artscape. Also on the programme are highlights from Lichine’s hilarious “Graduation Ball” and MacMillan’s quirky “Solitaire”. There are four shows at the Masque: Thurs 26, Fri 27 and Sat 28 January. Weeknights 8pm, Sat 2.30pm and 6.30pm. Tickets are evenings R75 (R65) and matinee R65 (R55).

10 – 18 Feb The Breakfast Club, a stage adaptation of John Hughes’ iconic 1985 movie, directed by
Feb Raymond Rudolph and presented by Muizenberg Dramatic Society at the Masque. Five young people with nothing in common are forced to spend a day together, in a setting from which they cannot remove themselves. Inevitably verbal, emotional & physical sparring ensues, as the group transforms and new relationships are forged. What will happen to them when the day is over? This ostensibly simple storyline belies the depth of the emotional experience which John Hughes’ well crafted comedy drama has provided to millions of moviegoers and subsequent video-viewers over the past 26 years. The Breakfast Club has remained popular long after most of its contemporary counterparts have faded into obscurity and it still appears in countless “Top 10 best ever movie” lists, even in those created by young people whose parents enjoyed the movie during its initial run! Clearly the underlying themes remain as relevant today as then: stereotyping; teen peer-pressure & isolation; the communication gap between parents & kids and between teachers & students; domestic violence; drugs; romance in unexpected settings; and more. Rated PG13 for strong language and adult content.

Sunday 12 Feb A Time for Love, Soiree presented by Playbill Productions in the Masque Foyer at 20:00.
Tickets at R75 (R65). The outstanding young talents of soprano Maudee Montierre and baritone Thesele Kemane, with Victor Tichart at the piano! Students of Prof Virginia Davids will present a selection of love songs through the ages. A Valentine’s Treat!

23 – 25 Feb Honk! A Musical Comedy presented by Pinelands Players at the Masque with direction
by Kyla Thorburn and musical direction by Justin Wardle. Since it first hatched in 1993 Stiles & Drewe’s musical has winged its way around the world, winning multiple awards. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Ugly Duckling”, “Honk!” tells the story of an odd looking young duck, Ugly, and his quest to find his mom. The audience journey with Ugly on a “Wild Goose Chase” from the Duckyard to a Marshland where we meet all sorts of delightful characters. The principal theme of the show is clearly the acceptance, compassion and understanding of others who may appear different for whatever reason. Honk! is family entertainment that is fun for all ages – as much about people as it is about ducks. Tickets are R80 (R70) and R50 for under 12s.

Please note days, times and prices for Masque Theatre productions (unless otherwise stated) are Thurs & Fri performances at 20:00, Saturday matinee at 14:30, Saturday evening at 18:30
Thurs eve and Sat Matinees R55 (Theatre Club members R45)
Other Nights R65 (Theatre Club members R55)
Bookings on 021 7881898

GETTING TO KNOW YOU!
Wendy Morling helps us to get to know Richard Higgs:
W: When did you first get involved in Amdram and what motivated you?
R: When I was in primary school, my first role was Grumpy in ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves’. I was eight or nine. It wasn’t so much a question of motivation as just something that I couldn’t imagine myself not doing. After a break from Amdram (and some professional performance art stuff I did as a student) since 2000, my escape from Johannesburg to Cape Town in 2011 brought about the opportunity to get back into Amdram. What motivates me to do it? Passion for theatre and the secret wish that I could do theatre for a living. It was also a way of meeting people in this notoriously unfriendly city.
W: What do you do when not involved in Amdram – real life job/profession?
R: In my real job I am a project manager in the IT department at UCT. My portfolio is Enterprise Content Management, which is also known as “trying to herd cats”. By profession, I’m actually a linguist. Well, that’s what I’m qualified as. However, since there is no such thing as a linguist in the real world of bills to pay and a mouth to feed, I do techie stuff. While not doing that, I am also finishing my Masters Degree in Creative Writing (Poetry) at UCT. In my rare free time I do music (have recently taught myself to play the theremin, and have given a recital), and painting and sculpture.
W: What kind of theatre do you prefer to be involved in? And why?
R: My first love is drama: anything from the classical Greek tragedies to contemporary stuff. The Greeks had the aesthetic of catharsis: by getting intensely emotionally involved in a tragic play, you release your own pent-up issues. I think that’s healthy. For me, theatre should challenge in some way, not just entertain. I enjoy working in comedy, but the challenges of comedy for me are much more about skill than art. Where skill and art are combined is where I really feel at home. In my perfect world I’d be directing opera, giving audiences food for thought with radical interpretations and unexpected, thought-provoking visuals.
W: What is the most embarrassing occasion whilst involved in Amdram?
R: Conducting an orchestra for a musical, happily starting off conducting a cut-time piece in full 4/4 time. We were about 6 bars in before I realised what the raised eyebrows from the musicians were about. Luckily the pianist had not been watching me, and everyone else could catch up with him. In the same show, but another performance, I sent my baton (which was actually a chopstick) flying into the audience at a particularly exciting and dramatic moment. I don’t conduct any more.
W: What animal would you be?
R: If karma has anything to do with it, probably a slug! Seriously, though, I have a particular affinity for manta rays: solitary, independent, gentle giants, with the freedom of the (warm – I hate cold water) seas, flying without having to worry about a fear of heights.
W: What kind of food would we find in your fridge?
R: Anything from truffle oil to the hairy remains of two-week-old boiled cabbage and bully-beef. My fridge is the perfect representation of misdirected Scottish thrift combined with a serious hedonistic pleasure in food.
W: What is the best thing about MADS & its members?
R: Diversity. I have met the most inspiring crowd of people through MVDS, and made some wonderful friends. Everyone is a unique individual, united by a common love for theatre and a commitment to the community. I have a long history in the corporate world, where everybody tries to be the same and it’s every man for himself. I love the mutual respect in Amdram, no matter what your age, your background. The sense of teamwork and dedication is also inspiring: everyone pulls together to make things work on a shoestring.

BIRTHDAYS

Birthdays come thick and fast in February starting with James Skilton on the first day, Conrad Lihou on the 2nd, Linda Jennings on the 5th, Andrea Boettger on the 6th and Mia Simonow on the 8th. A small gap to Reneé Gowar on the 13th, followed by David Muller and Anthony James who share the 18th. birga Thomas celebrates on the 20th with Erika Mitchell on the 22nd, Sue Hallinan the 23rd and Isabel Byers rounds out the month on the 25th. Ah gee, no 29ers – I could have had a lot of fun with that! I found a little poem about your birthstone:
“The February born shall find
Sincerity and peace of mind,
Freedom from passion and from care,
If they, the amethyst will wear.”
So “many happy returns” to you all – Since the 18th century this has been used as a salutation to offer the hope that a happy day being marked would recur many more times. It is now primarily used on birthdays but prior to the mid 19th century it was used more generally, at any celebratory or festive event.

A G M

As you are by now very much aware, our Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, 25 January 2012, 19:30 for 20:00, at the Rendezvous (Old Zandvlei Bowling Club), 57 Promenade Road, Muizenberg. Snacks and the usual small cash bar will be provided. If you haven’t already done so please RSVP to birga Thomas on 021 7885272 or email birgatom@iafrica.com NOW. Please refer to the Agenda sent to you recently which contains the names of the folk eligible for the members’ choice awards, on which you will be requested to vote. Paul Giffiths will also be announcing the winners of various MVDS’ awards….. remember, if you are a member of our society and you were involved in one of our productions (in ANY capacity), you stand a chance of winning an award so PLEASE make the effort to attend! One of the most important functions of the AGM is to elect a committee for this year – some of the current committee are prepared to stand again but it would be wonderful to have a broader representation of our membership so those who haven’t been on the committee for a “while” and those who think they would like to try it – volunteer on the night!! Or contact any of the committee members to find out what is involved (really, it is not as onerous as you think!)
SUBS

After a hundred years at the old price (ok, SMALL exaggeration there!) it has been decided to increase the subs BUT if you pay before or at the AGM – you will still get the old rate!!! So that means singles pay R40, couples R60 and Pensioners/Students R25. If you pay AFTER the AGM this will be R50, R70 and R30 respectively.

Well, I think it is time I said goodbye and let somebody else get “A word in edgeways” – a 19th century expression which was coined in the UK.
An early (1821) example in print is from the one-act play Twelve precisely! or, A night at Dover. The names of the lead characters, Amelia Wildlove and Sir Ferdinand Frisky, give a sense of the nature of the play – Sir F. (Aside.) “Curse me, if I can get a word in edgeways!”

Eve

MUIZENBERG DRAMATIC SOCIETY

AUDITION NOTICE

‘SEASON’S GREETINGS’

BY ALAN AYCKBOURN

Directed By: Coleen Van Staden

SYNOPSIS: The play is set in England and needs a talented cast of ensemble players who can bring out all the element of this Ayckbourn gem – farce, situation comedy and black humour– while manhandling mechanical toys, puppets, legs of lamb, a huge Xmas tree and on the odd occasion, each other! In the words of Ayckbourn : “Christmas is about log fires, Christmas trees, excited children’s faces, candle-light, the holly and the mistletoe. The Bunkers’ home has all these. It’s comfy and cosy and it swarms with children. Not the smaller, shorter variety though but the taller, older ones – currently going through the ‘awkward’ age, the twenty-five to seventy year olds. They’re all there. Fighting over their toys, clamouring for attention, bullying, sneaking and crying, then kissing and making up and generally getting far too overexcited, as they always do every year at Christmas. Season’s Greetings is a play about love and how unfair it all is. And success and failure. And jealousy and self-deception. And greed and envy and lust and gluttony. Just your average family Christmas.”

THE CAST (Ages are fairly flexible):

Belinda 30-45 Frustrated and uptight. An efficient but distracted hostess. Wants, but does not get, her husband’s attention and reassurance. A sudden infatuation presents a possible escape from her indifferent husband.

Neville 35-45 Belinda’s husband. Easy going and affable. Always busy fiddling with anything mechanical. Self absorbed and unaware of what goes on around him.

Bernard 40-60 a feeble-spirited doctor, obsessed with his dismal puppet show that is a complete failure every Xmas. Married to Phyllis.

Phyllis 35-50 Bernard’s lush of a wife and Neville’s sister – always tipsy, accident prone, flirty

Eddie 30-40 Friend and ex employee of Neville’s – not in the same league although aspires to be. Generally passive but underlying aggression. Immature.

Pattie 25–35 Eddie’s pregnant wife, largely ignored by him and rather hard done by. A bit of a nag.

Rachel 25–45 Belinda’s emotionally “challenged” sister – in love with Clive but is extremely insecure & unfulfilled in the love department.

Clive 30-40 writer, in a “tentative” relationship with Rachel –finds he is attracted to Belinda. Pleasant, attractive and single.

Harvey 50-70 30 years in the security “game” and obsessed with violence. Slightly senile. Nasty streak. Enjoys putting Bernard down.

CATA NOMINEE LIST FOR 2011
Artistic Contribution
Dolores Spijkers – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Gillian Charman-Black/June Edwards/Cecil Jakins/Robyn Wainwright – The Crucible (MVDS)
Kerry-Lee Knott-Craig – Godspell (Pinelands)
Wendy Goddard – Chapter Two (Milnerton)
Roxy Levy – Fiddler on the Roof (G & S)
Sue Bolton – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Kyla Thorburn – Honk (Pinelands)
June Wells – Honk (Pinelands)
Technical Excellence
Gary Fargher – Macbeth (Claremont)
Shelley Lombard and Anna Dennis – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Kyla Thorburn – Honk (Pinelands)
Best Set
Vivienne Gray – Brief Lives (Claremont)
Wendy Goddard – Chapter Two (Milnerton)
Debbie Bentley-Buckle and Barrie Howard – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Dawn Innes –People Are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Debbie Bentley-Buckle and Barrie Howard- Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
Margi Blewett – August: Osage County (MVDS)
David Davidson – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Kyla Thorburn – Honk (Pinelands)
Cameo Performance
Bryoni Currin – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Alric D Frost – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Nigel Sweet – Macbeth (Claremont)
Darren Telford – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Ruth Allsopp – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Most promising Newcomer
Anton Schäfer – Chapter Two (Milnerton)
Tarryn Sessions – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
John Bradley-Koopman – People Are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Nikita Claire McShane – August: Osage County (MVDS)
Lynwen Kirby Roman – August: Osage County (MVDS)
Tayla van Blerck – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Roche Haupt-Buckle – Godspell (Pinelands)
Kerry-Lee Knott-Craig – Godspell (Pinelands)
Darik Vélez – Godspell (Pinelands)
John Lambrou – Forever Plaid (Pinelands)

Best Supporting Actress in a Play or Musical
Lisa Squire Harris – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Isabel Byers – The Crucible (MVDS)
Su Cunningham – The Crucible (MVDS)
Sindiwe Magona – The Crucible (MVDS)
Jana Botha – The Doubting (Carnivals of the Heart)
Petra Schiebe – The Sum of Us (Milnerton)
Pam Burger – Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
Felicity Purdon – Hay Fever (Fish Hoek)
Jane de Sousa – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Jennifer Moss – Godspell (Pinelands)
Phoebe Snayer – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Ami-Rose Barber – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Claire Simonis – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Kate Olmesdahl – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Jennifer Moss – Honk (Pinelands)
Lesley Gill – Honk (Pinelands)
Laura Bosman – Honk (Pinelands)
Best Supporting Actor in a Play or Musical
Richard Higgs – The Crucible (MVDS)
Neil Slater – People are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Mike Tompson – Macbeth (Claremont)
Anton Schäfer – The Sum of Us (Milnerton)
Richard Higgs – Hay Fever (Fish Hoek)
Patrick Jordi – August: Osage County (MVDS)
Clifford Graham –August: Osage County (MVDS)
James Skilton – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Byron Bure – Godspell (Pinelands)
Gary Kiewitz – Godspell (Pinelands)
John Carne – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Daniel Fisher – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Andrew Weiss – Honk (Pinelands)
Best Actress in a Play or Musical
Gizelle Willows – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Tamara Richards – The Crucible (MVDS)
Angela Lee-Wright – The Crucible (MVDS)
Pamela Burger – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Lisa Squire Harris – People are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Carey Wallace – Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
Michele Belknap – August: Osage County (MVDS)
Allison Blair – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Sheila Inglis – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Julie Dickson – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Michelle Galloway – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Natisha van Zyl – Forbidden Broadway (Milnerton)
Chloe Kiley – Forbidden Broadway (Milnerton)
Bonny White – Honk (Pinelands)
Best Actor in a Play or Musical
Matt Browne – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Dean Howarth – The Crucible (MVDS)
Bruce Sanderson – Chapter Two (Milnerton)
Dennis Benneyworth – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
James King – National Madness (Milnerton)
Gregory Parvess – The Sum of Us (Milnerton)
Anthony Storr Lister – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Darik Vélez – Godspell (Pinelands)
Richard White – Forever Plaid (Pinelands)
David Bolton – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Shaun Browne – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Sven-Eric Müller – Forbidden Broadway (Milnerton)
Christopher Thomas – Honk (Pinelands)
Richard White – Honk (Pinelands)
Best Play, Best Musical, Most adventurous Production, Best Director of a Play/Musical
Darryl Spijkers – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Barrie Howard – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Darryl Spijkers – People Are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Angela Lee-Wright – Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
birga Thomas – August: Osage County (MVDS)
Sue Bolton – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Roche Haupt-Buckle – Godspell (Pinelands)
June Wells – Forever Plaid (Pinelands)
Teddy Davies – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Kyla Thorburn – Honk (Pinelands)

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Milnerton Players – Diary of Events

Posted in Milnerton Players Newsletters on 17 January, 2012| Leave a Comment »

Hi All

I trust you’ve all had a restful silly season and are settling in to the new year.

Here are a few of our upcoming events for you to diarise:

Saturday 21 January at 14:15

Audition for Caught on the Hop
A comedy/farce written by Derek Benfield and directed by Gordon Molloy
4 men and 4 women are required for this hilarious comedy/farce.

For further details contact: Gordon: 021 552 2988 or Margaret: 082 495 0404

Friday 3 February at 20:15
First Social Evening of 2012 Members: R 5
Non-Members: R 10

The evening will consist of a sketch called Cricket and Football, read by Liam Cundill and Nigel Sweet. This will be followed by Bar and Ger, Geraldin Aron’s tender, simple drama about the relationship between ad sister and her younger brother.

Sunday 29 January
The Craft of Acting – a one day acting workshop hosted by Gregory Parvess. Details in the Prattle
For further info & bookings contact: Petra@Faces4Film or phone: 021 557 2308

Friday 9 March at 20:00
The band ‘Tribute’ plays Cliff and the Shadows, details in the Prattle

The band comprises five musicians from the old school who all play in other bands and together have formed what is arguably the finest exponent of this music in Cape Town.

Tickets: R90

(A discount of R10 per ticket is being offered to Milnerton members, pensioners and block bookings of 10 or more)

Bookings: 021 554 5778 or E-mail: shadowsband@mweb.co.za

Friday 30 March at 20:15
The Milnerton Players AGM

Telephone:
0860 015 015

Facsimile:
0861 015 015

Mobile:
0824 435 853

Email:
whendricks@ois.co.za

Web:
http://www.ois.co.za

For product information visit http://www.iware.net

DISCLAIMER
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed.
If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager.

——————————————————————————–

No virus found in this message.
Checked by AVG – http://www.avg.com
Version: 2012.0.1901 / Virus Database: 2109/4745 – Release Date: 01/15/12

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Ad Lib – January 2012

Posted in Pinelands Adlib Newsletters on 17 January, 2012| Leave a Comment »

The Official Newsletter of Pinelands Players
(Established 1948 & Incorporating The Cape Town Repertory Theatre Society)
P O Box 131 Howard Place 7450
Blog: http://pinelandsplayers.wordpress.com/ Email: tanya@march.za.net Phone: 082 900 6963 January 2012

Hi there readers

New Year’s greetings to you!

We hope that everyone had a safe and merry festive season. Time to get back into routines, re-focus on work & health and for some, new year’s resolutions. We now see many embarking on ways to shed the kilos after over indulgences and wild parties. It’s actually quite simple – cut down on your intake, and get active. Get involved in theatre….

The year has kicked off with positive and new prospects for Pinelands Players. We look forward to some exciting shows and events.

Honk! is moving to the Masque Theatre for more performances. The successful run during December paves the way to yet more fun and success in the Southern Suburbs. Do not miss this show!

We are delighted to announce that our mid-year Candelight Theatre production is Shout, which will be directed by Garth Tavares. Garth recently musically directed the Rolska production of “Edges” which was staged at the Kalk Bay Theatre and went on to a successful run at the 2011 Grahamstown Arts Festival.

Garth is currently lecturing musical theatre repertoire classes and directing Cape Town’s hottest comedy cabaret group, “Rock ‘n Rouge”. Auditions for Shout will take place on 3 & 4 March 2012, and call backs on 10 & 11 March. More information on this show to follow.

You are reminded of the Annual General Meeting taking place on 12 February 2012 – 15h00 at the Pinelands Congregational Church Hall, Nerine Avenue, Pinelands. Please will you RSVP to Clara Machado by no later than 7 February 2012, and direct any apologies to her if you are unable to attend. Clara’s email is : clara.machado87@gmail.com. Sadly Clara will not be eligible for nomination onto the committee this year as she is jetting off to the UK to further her career and dramatic arts experience.

Don’t forget to join us for our first Club Night of the year – an exciting 60’s themed quiz evening, on 2 March 2012 in preparation and excitement for Shout auditions. Chenara and Clara will once again offer us a fun and entertaining evening.

We are still looking for proposals for Candelight Theatre for the end of the year slot, so we eagerly await to hear from any of you who wish to put a production together.

So whether actively getting involved in our shows or events, or just mulling around at home, make it your mission to at least support Pinelands Players and our fellow societies. We depend on you to make everything we do, a success.

May 2012 bring you and your loved ones happiness, adventure, health and laughter.

Take time to give someone a compliment, but only if you really mean it. Take time to smile at someone, but only if it is genuine. Take time to show some kindness, but only if it comes from the heart.
Tanya March

Calling New Committee Members

As the Annual General Meeting approaches, so too comes the time to elect a new Pinelands Players Committee. Not all our current members are able to stand on the committee for the forthcoming year, and therefore we appeal to anyone who is interested in joining our team, to put their names forward for election.

The responsibility of the committee is to ensure that wise decisions are made for the longevity and success of the society. It also requires individuals to give of their time and expertise to ensure that our events, club nights and shows are appealing to a wide audience.

Whilst committee duties are sometimes arduous and tiresome (and very behind-the-scenes), we have a lot of fun!

Please contact Tanya by no later than 7 February 2012 – tanya@march.za.net or on 082 900 6963.

Honk!

We say goodbye to the Little Theatre, but we do not say goodbye to Honk!

We are moving to the Masque Theatre for further performances of this uplifting musical 23 – 25 February 2012.
Sadly we say farewell to Julian Fernandez, who has moved to Germany to attend theatre school there. Clara Machado will soon be venturing off to the UK to explore her talents and the country. We wish them all of the very best and we have been privileged to have had them perform during the run at the Little Theatre. A few other members of the cast are unable to participate in the re-run, and we will miss them too.

Should you be interested in assisting with follow-spots or back stage for the Masque performances, please do not hesitate to contact Tina Gough (Bgough@telkomsa.net).

Do not forget to book your seats for this show – there are only 4 more performances available to the public.

See you there!

Forthcoming attraction:

From cover-to-cover SHOUT! travels in time from 1960 to 1970 chronicling the dawning liberation of women.
Just as Dusty Springfield, Petula Clark, Cilla Black, and Lulu were independent women with major careers, English and American women were redefining themselves in the face of changing attitudes about gender. SHOUT! reflects that change through the unforgettable music of the time. Though SHOUT! wears its heart on its sleeve, it also has its tongue planted firmly in its cheek. Everything from the period is recreated – from the fashions and the dances to the music and the hair; all of which is heightened and made just a tiny bit larger. With a shimmy and shake, the songs are tied together by hilarious sound bites from the period – from ’60s advertisements for anything and everything – to lonely hearts letters answered by an advice columnist who thinks every problem can be solved with a “fetching new hair style and a new shade of lipstick.”

Watch this space for more updates on this production!

CATA Awards

Congratulations go to Roché, June and Kyla and their teams of talented people both on stage and behind the scenes!

24 Of the 102 nominations have been awarded to Pinelands Players.

ARTISTIC CONTRIBUTION
Kerry-Lee Knott-Craig – Godspell
Kyla Thorburn – Honk!
June Wells – Honk!

TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE
Kyla Thorburn – Honk!

BEST SET
Kyla Thorburn – Honk!

MOST PROMISING NEWCOMER
Roché Haupt-Buckle – Godspell
Kerry-Lee Knott-Craig – Godspell
Darik Vélez – Godspell
John Lambrou – Forever Plaid

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Jennifer Moss – Godspell
Jennifer Moss – Honk!
Lesley Ann Gill – Honk!
Laura Bosman – Honk!

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Byron Bure – Godspell
Gary Kiewitz – Godspell
Andrew Weiss – Honk!

BEST ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Bonny White – Honk!

BEST ACTOR IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Darik Vélez – Godspell
Richard White – Forever Plaid
Christopher Thomas – Honk!
Richard White – Honk!

BEST PLAY, BEST MUSICAL, MOST ADVENTUROUS PRODUCTION, BEST DIRECTOR OF A PLAY, BEST DIRECTOR OF A MUSICAL
Roché Haupt-Buckle – Godspell
June Wells – Forever Plaid
Kyla Thorburn – Honk!

Nominees will automatically be invited, but still have to RSVP. For anyone else wishing to attend this prestigious event, contact the Masque Theatre to book your seat. Masque Theatre : masq-th@mweb.co.za

What’s on

9 March 2012 Masque Theatre
Marvin’s Room directed by Brenda Grey
Claremont Dramatic Society
Bookings 021 788 1898

23 – 25 February 2012 Masque Theatre
Honk! directed Kyla Thorburn
Pinelands Players
Bookings 021 788 1898

Auditions

Pinelands Players
Shout by Phillip George & David Lowenstein
Directed by Garth Tavares
Performance dates: 16 – 29 July 2012
Pinelands Town Hall
Audition dates: 3 & 4 March 2012
Call back dates: 10 & 11 March 2012
Place: Clubhouse
The Crossing
Pinelands

Enquiries: Tina: Bgough@telkomsa.net

Claremont Dramatic Society
Odd Couple (Female version)by Neil Simon
Directed by Sheldon Cross
Performance dates: 20-28 July 2012
Masque Theatre
Audition dates: 5 February 2012 14:00
Place: The Hok
Claremont
Enquiries: Sheldon Cross:
sheldon_cross@yahoo.com

Club night

60’s Quiz Night
2nd March 2012
19h00
Clubhouse

In preparation of the Shout auditions and to get everyone amped up about this show……

Dress up if you want to.

Bring one 60’s question to contribute to the evening’s questions.

Fantastic prizes.

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Cape Amateur Theatre Awards – Nominee list for 2011

Posted in CATA Cape Amateur Theatre Awards on 9 January, 2012| Leave a Comment »

CATA NOMINEE LIST FOR 2011

TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE
Gary Fargher – Macbeth (Claremont)
Shelley Lombard and Anna Dennis – Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Kyla Thorburn – Honk (Pinelands)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Lisa Squire Harris – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Isabel Byers – The Crucible (MADS)
Su Cunningham – The Crucible (MADS)
Sindiwe Magona – The Crucible (MADS)
Jana Botha – The Doubting (Carnivals of the Heart)
Petra Schiebe – The Sum of Us (Milnerton)
Pam Burger – Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
Felicity Purdon – Hay Fever (Fish Hoek)
Jane de Sousa – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Jennifer Moss – Godspell (Pinelands)
Phoebe Snayer – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Ami-Rose Barber – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Claire Simonis – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Kate Olmesdahl – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Jennifer Moss – Honk (Pinelands)
Lesley Gill – Honk (Pinelands)
Laura Bosman – Honk (Pinelands)

BEST ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL
Gizelle Willows – Romeo and Juliet (Carnivals of the Heart)
Tamara Richards – The Crucible (MADS)
Angela Lee-Wright – The Crucible (MADS)
Pamela Burger –Come Back Little Sheba (Constantiaberg)
Lisa Squire Harris – People are Living There (Carnivals of the Heart)
Carey Wallace – Steel Magnolias (Constantiaberg)
Michele Belknap – August: Osage County (MADS)
Allison Blair – Separate Tables (Claremont)
Sheila Inglis- Separate Tables (Claremont)
Julie Dickson – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Michelle Galloway – Fiddler on the Roof (G&S)
Natisha van Zyl – Forbidden Broadway (Milnerton)
Chloe Kiley – Forbidden Broadway (Milnerton)
Bonny White – Honk (Pinelands)