Masque Fundraising Christmas Fair

The Masque Theatre is in dire need of funds for a new roof and repairs to the air-conditioning.  Therefore, the theatre will hold a once-off  

Christmas Market

Sunday, 8 December 2013,
from 10:00 to 14:00 At the Masque Theatre,
37 Main Road, Muizenberg

* White Elephant Stall * Solar Lights and Décor * Beaded Jewellery * Diabetic Jams * Watercolours * Homemade Preserves * Boerewors Stand * Gifts Galore * CDs and DVDs * Charcoal Portraits * Books * Face Painting * Child Care * And many more!

Come and Join the Fun!

If you would like to donate any ‘White Elephant’ please contact Jane: f.h.d.society@gmail .com or 021 782 3608.  Donations to the book stall:  please contact Eve on  082 789 2281 or everon@absamail.co.za

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Gaslight – November 2013

GASLIGHT NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY VOLUME 20, ISSUE 6 – NOVEMBER 2013
Hello everyone
This will be the last time you see this logo as the final curtain has come down on what was, without question, a brilliant show. The critics were unanimous in their praise. A couple visiting from Jo’burg wanted to know when the show was moving there so they could take their friends. And how’s this for a comment, sent to our website: My wife and I just loved your production of Guys and Dolls….the best musical we have ever seen…bar none…and yes we did see the London production. Congratulations to one and all.
Congratulations indeed. Everything came together so well: those on stage outdid themselves night after night; those backstage worked tirelessly managing the huge, but magnificent set; those in the pit were outstanding and contributed so much to the vibrancy of the production. The singing was great under Bill’s direction (not forgetting Garth’s contribution in the early weeks of rehearsal). And ultimately Kyla could feel very proud of her baby. Thanks to everyone involved!

 

The great sadness was that the show was not better supported by the Cape Town public. It certainly deserved support, but from a financial point of view, the Society is facing another significant loss. Taking into account the loss on last year’s production, we are going to have to be very cautious going into next year’s show.
Another sadness was that Michelle Galloway, who was to have shared the role of Adelaide with Laura Bosman, had an accident on stage two days before opening night and broke some bones in her foot. The usual encouragement to “Break a leg” was taboo for the rest of the show! Laura soldiered on for all 28 performances and did a wonderful job. But we feel for Michelle, and trust that her foot heals quickly and leaves no lingering effects.
Once the accounts for the show have been finalised, we will need to have a Production Account meeting at which we review and analyse all aspects of the show. You will be advised of date and place in due course.
And so, as we put one show to bed, another is in the process of stirring.
By the time you get this, auditions will be under way. If you still want a chance to audition, contact Issy immediately on 021 433 0923 after 3.00 pm weekdays, and any (reasonable) time over weekends. You can download the audition form from our website. Go to http://www.gands.co.za, click on ‘About Us’, then click on ‘Downloads’ and the ‘Oklahoma Audition Form’.
The tentative dates for this show are 19 July to 3 August 2014. Preliminary rehearsal information will be available at the auditions.
You’re invited – OPSKOP 2013!
Our end-of-year OPSKOP will be held this year on MONDAY 16 DECEMBER at the home of Laura Bosman in Pinelands (thanks so much Laura!). See details below. For the uninitiated, this is our closing social event of the year. Bring your meat and drink – we’ll supply the rest. If you can help with a half drum for braaiing, please let David Bolton know (0845880133). And so that we know how much salad and rolls to prepare, please RSVP to David by Friday 13th – or earlier if you’re wary of that date! (email address below.)
A NEW CONSTITUTION

A new constitution for the Society was approved at a Special General Meeting of members on Monday 18 November. It will be available soon for viewing on our website (go the same route as for the Audition Form, but click on ‘Our constitution’.) It is hoped that this new constitution will give us a form of governance more appropriate to the Society we have become, and enable us also to seek registration as an NPO, with some of the attendant benefits. Though that new constitution becomes effective immediately, the existing Exco has been mandated to continue steering the affairs of the Society until the AGM next year.

ANNUAL INTER-SOCIETY QUIZ
Our Society entered two teams in this year’s quiz, hosted by last year’s winners, Constantiaberg Theatre Players. We came very close to top and tailing the scoreboard, as our A team (consisting of Teddy, Lorna, Gwen and Cindy) triumphed gloriously, while our B team (Alastair, Adrian K, Irene Forbes and your scribe) rather ingloriously just managed to avoid last place. So well done to the A Team! Only trouble is that as this year’s winners, we have to host and organise next year’s quiz.

 

FROM SISTER SOCIETIES
Still time to catch the Ray Cooney farce “It Runs in the Family” from Milnerton Players at the Milnerton Playhouse. The play features a couple of our members in Cindy Nixon, Nigel Sweet and Sheila McCormick.
29 November-7 December, “Rope”, presented by Muizenberg Dramatic Society at the Masque. Loosely based on the Leopold-Loeb case, where two young, privileged men murdered another young man just for the thrill of it, this riveting play is filled with typical Hitchcockian moments. Has a murder been committed? If so, where is the body? What was the motive? Don’t miss this thriller which will have you on the edge of your seat! Book through The Masque on 021 7881898 or bookings@masquetheatre.co.za
Something different from Pinelands Players.….FLASHMOB THEATRE! On Saturday, 30 November 2013, at the First Pinelands Scout Hall, Lieske Bester and Debbie Gildenhuys will be directing a production in just one day! Between 08h00 and 17h00, with a break for lunch, they will cast, script, rehearse, costume, set-up, perform and strike a theatre performance. Participants will receive snacks and drinks during the day. A huge challenge for the directors and great fun for the participants. Prizes will be awarded at the end of the performance. More info at http://pinelandsplayers.wordpress.com/2013/10/14/theatre-in-a-day/ .
WEBSITE
Don’t forget to check out our website from time to time. Some great photos of Guys and Dolls. http://www.gands.co.za
That’s it. Try and get some rest during the holiday season and come back fresh for another year of theatrical enjoyment. And for those engaging in special religious celebrations during the next few weeks, be richly blessed.
Ken

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MADS Messenger Extra – November 2013

UPDATES!!!!

 

Lots more happening since the last newsletter ………….

 

AUDITION FOR OUR FIRST PRODUCTION IN 2014!

 

“FLAT SPIN”

A COMEDIC FARCE BY DEREK S. ROYLE

Directed By Wendy Goddard

AUDITION DATE:       Wednesday 27 November 2013 at 19:30

PLACE:                       Rendezvous (Old Zandvlei Bowling Club), 57 Promenade Road, Muizenberg

ENQUIRIES:               Wendy Goddard 083 414 7003 or wendygoddard@xsinet.co.za

DATES OF RUN:       14 to 22 March 2014 – Masque Theatre, Muizenberg

REHEARSALS:          Mondays, Wednesdays (19:30 – 22:00) and Saturdays (14:30 – 17:00) commencing Sat 7 December.  There will be a break from 19 Dec to 13 Jan.

SYNOPSIS:

The combination of a mouse, an aspirant model, an incompetent electrician, an Italian film director who can’t speak English and a walk-in cupboard make for hilarious situations which will leave the audience gasping for breath.

Mistaken identities and cover-ups abound in this uproariously funny farce revolving around the frantic efforts of a young couple to keep their marriage secret so that she can take a much needed job.

‘Flat Spin’ is classic British farce at its best – good, old-fashioned, fun entertainment.

CHARACTERS:

(Please note that this is an amateur production and there is no remuneration)

JANE KENWAY:         (25-40)            Lead. Jane is given the opportunity to become a photographic model, but needs to break the news to her husband gently.  The Advertising Agent does not employ married models, and this is where her trouble starts.

MICHAEL CARTER:   (20-80) Support.  Michael is a photographer and Jane’s upstairs neighbour. He pops in to borrow some milk while Jane is trying to catch a mouse, and this is where his trouble starts.

DAVID KENWAY         (25-55) Lead.  Jane’s husband.  David is an actor recently returned from a touring production which has been cut short.  The bills are piling up, he is looking for more work, and this is where his trouble starts.

MR DRAKE     (20-80) Support.  Advertising Agent. Elegant and charming. Even though he is eccentric, he is lovable and nice.  His client has fled to Paris with her lover, and this is where his trouble starts.

VIRGINIA LORD:         (20-35)            Cameo. Very attractive young lady.  An actress friend of David’s looking for a place to stay for a few days, and this is where her trouble starts.  .

MRS CHATHAM:         (20-80) Cameo. Lovely character role.  Comes to see Jane about some clothes Jane is selling. This is where she starts to make trouble.

WENDY WILSON:      (20-80) Support.  Lovely character role – hearty, arty type. Inept photographic assistant who calls herself the ‘lighting expert’.  This is where she starts to make trouble. Can also be played by a man.

BRIGADIER SIR RICHARD KENWAY: (45-80) Support. David’s uncle.  He brings Dino to meet David, on their way to the airport.  This is where his trouble starts. Must be able to fake speaking Italian.

DINO GIOVANNI:        (25-80) Support. Italian Film Director who cannot speak English.  Richard asks him if they can pop in to see David on the way to the airport.  He has no idea that there is any trouble at all.  Must be able to speak Italian convincingly.  Tuition will be provided if necessary.

POLICE SERGEANT  (20-80) Male or female.  Cameo. Responds to Mrs Chatham’s report of a murder.  This is where his/her trouble starts.

No accents are required except for Dino. If you cannot make the audition on Wednesday 27 November, please contact Wendy to make arrangements for an alternative date.

We also need a great crew for what promises to be a wonderful production.  If you would like to join the team (Production Secretary, Rehearsal Prompt, Stage Manager, Props Manager, Lighting and Sound Design or Operator), please let Wendy know.

 

LAUNCH OF THE MASQUE THEATRE’S NEW VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME

 

The Masque Theatre is launching a newly structured Volunteer Programme aimed at:

Managing and supporting our existing volunteers more effectively,  recruiting and training new volunteers, and offering our patrons, both audiences and producers, a highly professional and efficient service.

Come along and hear about our exciting plans for 2014 and how you will be a part of them!

We also want to say a very big THANK YOU to all our wonderful volunteers for your fantastic support during 2013.

When? Sunday 15 December at 7.30pm                                Where? Masque Theatre Foyer

First drink is on the house, thereafter a cash bar. Light snacks will be served.  RSVP by Friday, 6 December to Jane Cohen on jane@masquetheatre.co.za or telephone the theatre at 021-788 6999

 

So that was the “NEW” news and here’s a couple of reminders ………

 

Saturday, 23 November, from 20h00: KARAOKE & DANCE presented by Hayley and Gary Fargher in the theatre foyer.  This will be an evening not to be missed!  Come sing and dance the night away while helping the Masque Theatre raise funds for its new roof and aircon system.  Come dressed as your favourite artist, and enjoy an evening filled with good music and many laughs.  Gary Fargher will be churning out the hits and there will be a cash bar and snacks available.  Hayley Fargher will be the hostess for this great evening of fun, music and dance!  Tickets cost a mere R50.

 

Sunday, 8 December 2013 is our CHRISTMAS CRAFT MARKET FUNDRAISING FAIR from 10am to 2pm in the Masque Foyer.  To book your stand at a cost of R50 contact Margi Blewett, cell 0836286295.  To donate goodies for the White Elephant Stall contact Jane Philbrick on 021 7823608 or f.h.d.society@gmail .com.  To donate books for the Book Stall contact me, Eve, on

021 7977286 (a/h) or 0827892281 or everon@absamail.co.za

AND SPREAD THE WORD!!!

 

Our FESTIVE BIRTHDAY BASH is on Wednesday, 11 December 2013 at 19h30 at a cost of R10.

Dress for celebrating and please bring a small gift (max R20) for distribution – just mark it male/female/neutral.  It will be a great social evening interspersed with entertainment drawn from a hat!!  Yes, we want YOU, our members to put your contribution into a hat (with your name on, don’t forget!!) and we will pull out names during the evening!  Let us have your theatrical “Funnies & Faux Pas” experiences please!  RSVP to Wendy Morling by Friday, 6 Dec – you can phone on 0834628242 or email home@morling.co.za.

 

TEA WITH THE MASQUE THEATRE MANAGER in the Theatre Foyer on Sunday, 22 December 2013 at 15h00.  Nico Dreyer will be reporting on the Creative Economy Conference attended in October and answering general questions relating to the Theatre.  Please telephone the theatre (or email masq-th@mweb.co.za) by 15 December to let Nico or Hayley know if you can make it.

 

ROPE, our last production of the year at the Masque from 29 November to 7 December!!

Make sure you book!!

I’m sure I’ll see you all at the theatre very soon – for one event or another!

Eve

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Claremont Chat – November 2013

Claremont Chat

November  2013 – Number 126

---

 

Hi All,

 

Summer holidays are so close I can smell the sea and suntan lotion.  “One of these mornings, you’re going to rise up singing, then you’ll spread your wings, and you’ll take to the sky.”  What a year we have had and there is still so much to see and do before we dive head first into Christmas time debauchery.

 

Christmas Party! 1 December 2013:

 

Our last member’s event will take place on Sunday 1 of December at the Hok at 4pm. A new Christmas play, entitled Scrood, written by Delaney Carpenter, this absurd spoof promise to be a loony look at Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol. Followed by a braai, bring (own meat) and braai, the committee will supply salads and rolls. The bar will be open, but feel free to bring your own drinks. Please RSVP to Pam: Tel: 021 657 5793 Cell: 082 488 0442 email: PamB@Masterparts.com ASAP, but definitely before Wednesday 27 November. Don’t miss this chance to see some exciting new theatre, an mingle with fellow thespians and reflect on a year well spent.

 

Audition 1

 

The Cape Town Gilbert & Sullivan Society will be holding auditions for a new lavish production of Oklahoma!, which will run in the Artscape Opera House from 19 July to 3 August 2014 and will be accompanied by the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra.  The show will be directed by Teddy Davies with musical direction by Alastair Cockburn and choreography by Kyla Thorburn.  Auditions will take place at Artscape on Saturday, 23 November for Chorus (recall 8 December); Saturday, 30 November for Principal Characters and Sunday, 8 December for specialist dancers.  For more information and instructions, look here: http://www.gilbertandsullivan.co.za/news/10/general/audition-notice-oklahoma#.Und05VNi0Zk

 

Audition 2

 

‘FLAT SPIN’ A comedic farce by Derek S. Royle. Directed by Wendy Goddard for Muizenberg Dramatic Society. Wednesday 27 November at 19:30.

VENUE:           Rendezvous (Old Zandvlei Bowling Club),57 Promenade Road, Muizenberg

PRODUCTION DATES:  14-22 March 2014, at the Masque Theatre, Muizenberg.

ENQUIRIES:  Wendy Goddard 083 414 7003 or wendygoddard@xsinet.co.za

 

The combination of a mouse, an aspirant model, an incompetent electrician, an Italian film director who can’t speak English and a walk-in cupboard make for hilarious situations which will leave the audience gasping for breath.

 

Mistaken identities and cover-ups abound in this uproariously funny farce revolving around the frantic efforts of a young couple to keep their marriage secret so that she can take a much needed job.

 

‘Flat Spin’ is classic British farce at its best – good, old-fashioned, fun entertainment.

 

More information here:  http://www.mads.co.za/auditions.html

 

Audition 3

 

HERE LIES JEREMY TROY By Jack Sharkey. Direction: Mari Mocke

 

Milnerton Playhouse, Sunday 8 December, 13.30 for 14.00 . Production dates: March 2014

This farce revolves around the main character, Jeremy Troy, who has led his wife, his boss, and his friends, to believe that he is a qualified lawyer. Because one of the partners in the law firm for which he works, has recently died, Jeremy is hoping that he will be promoted to take that person’s place. He has therefore invited his boss, Mr. Sven Ivorsen, who has never met his wife, Kathryn, to dinner.

 

Charlie Bickle, a friend whom Jeremy has not seen for a long time, turns up unexpectedly at Jeremy’s home, intending to talk his way into being accommodated there for a period of time. Charlie is an artist and he hires Tina Winslow, a model, to come over to Jeremy’s house to sit for a portrait.

 

Initially Jeremy and Kate are in and out of the house, and there is a merry mix-up before the important dinner-date, during which time it is suggested that the model pretends to be the wife, Kathryn, whom she has also never met, and to prepare the dinner for the boss. When Kate returns before dinner, she is totally confused by the situation and thinks that her husband has been having an affair with Tina behind her back. 

 

However, all’s well that ends well and within all the comedy action there is also a love story.

For further information please contact the director, Mari Mocke. 021 556 2415 or 082 708 4794 E-mail: mari.mocke@telkomsa.net

 

Inter-society Quiz

 

Claremont attained a very respectable second place (thanks to Ruth Allsopp), allowing G&S the honour of taking first place…and hosting next year’s quiz.  Thank you to Constantiaberg for hosting a fun evening with a wonderfully diverse range of questions

 

Henceforward…

 

Our final production of the year, ‘Henceforward…’ has come and gone.  Despite good reviews, audiences weren’t as good as we’d hoped for, but we still managed to cover our costs.  Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved – backstage, onstage, and front-of-house.

 

Tea for two…

Dear Society Chair, Committee & Society Member!

You are invited to Tea with the Theatre Manager

On

22 December 2013 at 15h00

At

The Masque Theatre Foyer

Why?

To report back on the Creative Economy Conference attended in October & to answer general questions relating to the Masque Theatre

RSVP

By latest 15 December 2013

 

Masque Fundraiser 1

 

Starting at 20h00 this Saturday, 23 November, there will be a Karaoke & Dance presented by Hayley and Gary Fargher in the theatre foyer.  This will be an evening not to be missed!  Come sing and dance the night away while helping the Masque Theatre raise funds for its new roof and aircon system.  Come dressed as your favourite artist, and enjoy an evening filled with good music and many laughs.  Gary Fargher will be churning out the hits and there will be a cash bar and snacks available.  Hayley Fargher will be the hostess for this great evening of fun, music and dance!  Tickets cost a mere R50.

 

Masque Fundraiser 2

 

 

MASQUE FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS FAIR

Date: Sunday 8 December
Time: 10:00 until 14:00
Venue: Masque Theatre foyer and verandah

Come and find the perfect stocking stuffer – over 20 stands of crafts, bric-a-brac, yummy food, White Elephant, books, CDs and more.

There will be a child-minding service, so you can browse at leisure.

If you would like to donate any ‘White Elephant’ please contact Jane: f.h.d.society@gmail .com or 021 782 3608.  Donations to the book stall:  please contact Eve on  0827892281 or everon@absamail.co.za!!

 

Volunteers

 

YOU ARE INVITED

LAUNCH OF THE MASQUE THEATRE’S NEW VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME

 

The Masque Theatre is launching a newly structured Volunteer Programme aimed at

managing and supporting our existing volunteers more effectively, recruiting and training new volunteers, and offering our patrons, both audiences and producers, a highly professional and efficient service.

 

Come along and hear about our exciting plans for 2014 and how you will be a part of them!

 

We also want to say a very big THANK YOU to all our wonderful volunteers for your fantastic support during 2013.

 

When: Sunday 15 December at 7.30pm

Where: Masque Theatre Foyer

 

First drink is on the house, thereafter a cash bar. Light snacks will be served.

 

RSVP:        Jane Cohen                           jane@masquetheatre.co.za

Or telephone the theatre at 021-788 6999 by Friday 6 December please

 

Calendar

 

23 Nov – 8 Dec          Oklahoma! Auditions

 

22 Nov – 7 Dec          It Runs in the Family by Ray Cooney.  Directed by Johan van der Merwe for Milnerton Players

 

23 November             20:00 Karaoke and Dance Masque fundraiser

 

27 November             Flat Spin audition

 

29 Nov – 7 Dec          Rope by Alfred Hitchcock.  Directed by Alastair Duff for Muizenberg Dramatic Society

 

30 November             Pinelands Players Flashmob.  More details here:  http://pinelandsplayers.wordpress.com/2013/10/14/theatre-in-a-day/

 

1 December               16:00 – CDS Christmas Party! Scrood – A New Christmas story by Delaney Carpenter

 

8 December               Masque Fundraising Christmas Fair.

 

8 December               Here Lies Jeremy Troy audition

 

15 December             Masque Volunteer Programme Launch

 

22 December             15:00 Tea with the Theatre Manager

 

For the theatre one needs long arms… an artiste with short arms can never make a fine gesture.

-Sarah Bernhardt

 

All my love,

 

Sheldon Cross

 

 

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Audition Notice – ‘Flat Spin’

AUDITION NOTICE

 

‘FLAT SPIN’

 

A COMEDIC FARCE BY DEREK S. ROYLE

 

Directed by Wendy Goddard for Muizenberg Dramatic Society

 

DATE:             Wednesday 27 November

 

TIME:              19:30

 

VENUE:          Rendezvous (Old Zandvlei Bowling Club),

57 Promenade Road, Muizenberg

 

PRODUCTION DATES:  14-22 March 2014, at the Masque Theatre, Muizenberg.

 

ENQUIRIES:  Wendy Goddard 083 414 7003 or wendygoddard@xsinet.co.za

 

Rehearsals start Saturday 7 December.  There will be a break from 19 December to 13 January.  Rehearsals will be on Mondays and Wednesdays from 19:30 to 22:00, and Saturdays from 14:30 to 17:00

 

SYNOPSIS:

 

The combination of a mouse, an aspirant model, an incompetent electrician, an Italian film director who can’t speak English and a walk-in cupboard make for hilarious situations which will leave the audience gasping for breath.

 

Mistaken identities and cover-ups abound in this uproariously funny farce revolving around the frantic efforts of a young couple to keep their marriage secret so that she can take a much needed job.

 

‘Flat Spin’ is classic British farce at its best – good, old-fashioned, fun entertainment.

 

CHARACTERS:

 

JANE KENWAY:                   (25-40)            Lead. Jane is given the opportunity to become a photographic model, but needs to break the news to her husband gently.  The Advertising Agent does not employ married models, and this is where her trouble starts.

 

MICHAEL CARTER:              (20-80) Support.  Michael is a photographer and Jane’s upstairs neighbour. He pops in to borrow some milk while Jane is trying to catch a mouse, and this is where his trouble starts.

 

DAVID KENWAY                 (25-55) Lead.  Jane’s husband.  David is an actor recently returned from a touring production which has been cut short.  The bills are piling up, he is looking for more work, and this is where his trouble starts.

 

MR DRAKE                            (20-80) Support.  Advertising Agent. Elegant and charming. Even though he is eccentric, he is lovable and nice.  His client has fled to Paris with her lover, and this is where his trouble starts.

 

VIRGINIA LORD:                  (20-35)            Cameo. Very attractive young lady.  An actress friend of David’s looking for a place to stay for a few days, and this is where her trouble starts.  .

 

MRS CHATHAM:                   (20-80) Cameo. Lovely character role.  Comes to see Jane about some clothes Jane is selling. This is where she starts to make trouble.

 

WENDY WILSON:                (20-80) Support.  Lovely character role – hearty, arty type. Inept photographic assistant who calls herself the ‘lighting expert’.  This is where she starts to make trouble. Can also be played by a man.

 

BRIGADIER SIR RICHARD KENWAY: (45-80) Support. David’s uncle.  He brings Dino to meet David, on their way to the airport.  This is where his trouble starts. Must be able to fake speaking Italian.

 

DINO GIOVANNI:                 (25-80) Support. Italian Film Director who cannot speak English.  Richard asks him if they can pop in to see David on the way to the airport.  He has no idea that there is any trouble at all.  Must be able to speak Italian convincingly.  Tuition will be provided if necessary.

 

POLICE SERGEANT             (20-80) Male or female.  Cameo. Responds to Mrs Chatham’s report of a murder.  This is where his/her trouble starts.

 

No accents are required except for Dino. If you cannot make the audition on Wednesday 27 November, please contact Wendy to make arrangements for an alternative date.

 

We also need a great crew for what promises to be a wonderful production.  If you would like to join the team (Production Secretary, Rehearsal Prompt, Stage Manager, Props Manager, Lighting and Sound Design or Operator), please let Wendy know.

 

Please note that this is an amateur production and there is no remuneration.

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Minerton Players – It Runs in the Family

 

IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY will have you laughing all the way to Christmas

 

The latest production at the Milnerton Playhouse is one that will have you laughing all the way to Christmas!

IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY by Ray Cooney is a farce in true Cooney style and takes place from 22 November to the 7 December and is directed by Johann van der Merwe.

 

Set in a London hospital a couple of days before Christmas, it’s full of ridiculously improbable situations and mistaken identities, guaranteed to have audiences rolling in the aisles.

And a taste of the story is enough to have you laughing! There is chaos at St. Andrew’s Hospital, London! Dr. David Mortimore is about to address a neurologists’ convention, which could earn him a knighthood. However, an old flame, Jane Tate, arrives and announces that their liaison years ago resulted in a son, Leslie, who is downstairs and desperate to meet his father. With the chairperson of the board, Lady Penelope Drake popping in and out with anxiety, and trying to hide this catastrophic news from his wife, David is forced to invent two non-existent husbands for Jane, as well as two non-existent matrons – all with the help of his hapless two colleagues. Events are further complicated with the presence of an inquisitive police sergeant, a dog called Leslie too, a senile wandering patient, a syringe full of tranquillizer that lands up in the real matron’s backside and the costumes for the annual hospital pantomime!

 

The large cast includes Neil Leachman, Willy Sass, Wayne Hendricks, Elizabeth Van Der Merwe, Cindy Nixon, Veronica Suckling, Kiara Havanga, Nigel Sweet, Timothy Coetzer, Andy McPherson & Sheila McCormick

 

Details:

Evenings: 22, 29 November and 5, 6 December at 8:00pm

23, 30 November and 7 December at 7:30 pm

Matinees: 30 November and 7 December at 2:00pm

 

Venue: Milnerton Playhouse, Pienaar Road, Milnerton (behind the library)

Bookings: online www.milnertonplayers.com

Email: bookings@milnertonplayers.com

Telephone: 082 267 1061

 

* AUDITION *

Milnerton Playhouse

Sunday 8 December

13.30 for 14.00

 

HERE LIES JEREMY TROY

By Jack Sharkey

 

Direction: Mari Mocke

 

Production dates: March 2014

 

This farce revolves around the main character, Jeremy Troy, who has led his wife, his boss, and his friends, to believe that he is a qualified lawyer. Because one of the partners in the law firm for which he works, has recently died, Jeremy is hoping that he will be promoted to take that person’s place. He has therefore invited his boss, Mr. Sven Ivorsen, who has never met his wife, Kathryn, to dinner.

Charlie Bickle, a friend whom Jeremy has not seen for a long time, turns up unexpectedly at Jeremy’s home, intending to talk his way into being accommodated there for a period of time. Charlie is an artist and he hires Tina Winslow, a model, to come over to Jeremy’s house to sit for a portrait.

Initially Jeremy and Kate are in and out of the house, and there is a merry mix-up before the important dinner-date, during which time it is suggested that the model pretends to be the wife, Kathryn, whom she has also never met, and to prepare the dinner for the boss. When Kate returns before dinner, she is totally confused by the situation and thinks that her husband has been having an affair with Tina behind her back. 

However, all’s well that ends well and within all the comedy action there is also a love story.

 

CAST REQUIRED:

 

JEREMY TROY: Outgoing, handsome – Early 30’s. (Large part)

 

KATHRYN TROY: Jeremy’s wife. Prettily feminine – Late 20’s. (Large part)

 

CHARLIE BICKLE: An old friend of Jeremy’s. Extrovert, artist – Early 30’s. (Large part)

 

TINA WINSLOW: Undergraduate model. Petite & attractive, easily excitable –

                          Early 20’s. (Large part)

 

SVEN IVORSEN:Jeremy’s lawyer boss. Middle-aged,suave. Enjoys high society.(Medium part)

 

Backstage & technical people will also be required for stage management, props, costumes, lighting & sound design & operation, set building & painting and rehearsal prompt.

 

For further information please contact the director, Mari Mocke.

021 556 2415 or 082 708 4794

E-mail: mari.mocke@telkomsa.net

 

 

 

 

Warm regards

Beryl

 

 

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Audition – Oklahoma!

GASLIGHT SPECIAL

NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY

SPECIAL AUDITION EDITION

AUDITIONS

 As previously announced, for our 2014 musical production, the Cape Town Gilbert & Sullivan Society will be staging a new lavish production of Oklahoma! in the Artscape Opera House from 19 July to 3 August 2014 accompanied by the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s first collaboration remains, in many ways, their most innovative, having set the standards and established the rules of musical theatre still being followed today.  Here the evergreen songs including  Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’;   People Will Say We’re in Love;   The Surrey With the Fringe on Top;   Many a New Day;   Out of My Dreams,  as well as vibrant dance numbers and a charming story have been triumphantly blended into one of the masterpieces of musical theatre.

The show will be staged and directed by Teddy Davies with musical direction by Alastair Cockburn and choreography by Kyla Thorburn – all musical theatre multi-award winners.

And now  – all you need to know about the forthcoming auditions:

 

AUDITION DATES AND TIMES

 

All auditions will take place at Artscape as follows:

 

1. Saturday, 23^rd November:  All auditions for the Chorus.  Prospective chorus members are required to sing a song of their own choice from a classical musical in similar style to “Oklahoma!”  Please refer to the attached cast list to identify the various categories/types of characters required for the chorus.

1. Saturday, 30^th November:  All auditions for Principal Characters.  Prospective Principals are required to sing a song from Oklahoma! if possible, or alternatively, any other classical musical in similar style.  It will be advantageous to choose a song which matches the character that you are auditioning for.  Please refer to the attached cast list for a complete breakdown of all the characters in the show.

1. Sunday, 8^th December (morning):  Auditions for all prospective specialist dancers.

1. Further recall auditions etc. will be held in addition to the above.  Please refer to the table below for a complete overview of all the auditions times:

 

Date	Time frame	Audition	Room No.
Saturday, 23rd November	10h00 to 13h00 14h00 to 17h00	Chorus Singing Audition Chorus Singing Audition cont.	RR 308
Saturday, 30th November	10h00 to 13h00 14h00 to 17h00	Principals Singing / Dialogue Audition Principals Singing / Dialogue Audition cont.	Music Room 306
Sunday 1st December	12h00 to 17h00	Principals Recall Workshop	Music Room 306
Saturday 7th December	14h00 to 17h00	Principals Recall Audition	Music Room 306
Sunday 8th December	10h00 to 13h00 14h00 to 17h00	Dancers Audition Chorus Recall Audition	RR 301 RR 301

 

Important notes for Auditionees:

 

1. 1.      When attending your audition, all auditionees should arrive with a prepared song and, if the song is not from “Oklahoma!”, the full sheet music accompaniment must be provided to the accompanist. 
2. 2.      With regard to Chorus auditions, it is likely that the audition panel will only listen to a portion of the prepared song in initially assessing voices.
3. 3.      Please complete the audition form which can be downloaded from the G&S Society’s website, www.gilbertandsullivan.co.za/aboutus/downloads  and bring it with you to your audition.

 

PROCEDURE FOR BOOKING YOUR AUDITION SLOT

 

1. Telephone the audition administrator, Issy Silbowitz, on 021 433 0923 from 3pm onwards on weekdays, and anytime on weekends.
2. Please furnish him with your full name and contact details (telephone numbers and email address);
3. Inform him what you wish to audition for and if you have a personal preference, the sort of time frame (morning or afternoon) in which you could be available. Please bear in mind that any request for a personal time is subject to available slots.

 

CAST FOR OKLAHOMA!

Character	Description	Age Range	Role Type	Voice Range	Notes
Aunt Eller Murphy	A middle-aged down-to-earth ‘mother to everyone’.   She is Laurey’s aunt and confidante.   She is a respected community leader.	40 – 60	Comedy	Mezzo
Character	Description	Age Range	Role Type	Voice Range	Notes
Laurey Williams	Her niece.   An independent young lady who is confused about her feelings for Curly and too innocent to realise that her “involvement” with Jud could lead to serious trouble.	18 – 25	Romantic female lead	Soprano
Curly McLain	A handsome young cowboy madly in love with Laurey.   His heart is in the right place and he is strong in facing up to Jud.	22 – 32	Romantic male lead	Light Baritone
Jud Fry	The hired hand on Aunt Eller’s farm.   Sullen, mysterious and sinister.   He lives a depressive existence in the smoke-house – a dangerous loner disliked by everyone.	27 – 38	Dramatic	Baritone
Will Parker	A young cowboy who is determined to win Ado Annie.  He has a pleasant happy-go-lucky disposition.	25 – 35	Comedy	Tenor	A song and dance man
Ado Annie Carnes	A flirtatious and gullible girl who cannot resist any man, particularly if a wedding ring is in prospect.	18 – 25	Comedy	Soprano / Soubrette
Andrew Carnes	Her father and the local judge.  Very quick to brandish his shotgun!	50 – 65	Comedy / Dramatic	Tenor	A mature, older man.
Gertie Cummings	A local ditzy girl – another flirt whose presence is always announced by her ear-piercing laugh.   Like Annie, she just wants to get married to someone.	18 – 25	Comedy Cameo	Non-singing Role
Ali Hakim	A Persian peddler and shrewd salesman.   A great one for the girls but not too adept at avoiding shotguns!	28 – 45	Comedy	Baritone	Sprechtgesang   – (Speak-singing)
Ike Skidmore	A ranch-house cowman.	40 – 65	Cameo	Baritone	A mature, older man
Cord Elam	A farmer and Federal Marshall	45 – 65	Cameo	Baritone	A mature, older man
Slim and Fred	Cowboy friends of Curly’s	20 – 35	Cameo	Baritones
Vivian, Ellen, Faye and Virginia	Laurey’s special girlfriends	18 – 25	Cameo	Sopranos
CHORUS:
Younger Ladies	Laurey’s friends, farmer’s daughters and the ranchers’ gals	18 – 30		Sopranos and Altos	Dance training or experience in stage movement would be a recommendation.
Farmers and Cowmen’s wives / gals	Mature ladies			Sopranos and Altos	No age restriction.
Cowboys	Younger men – friends of Curly’s	20 – 35		Tenors and Basses	Dance training or experience in stage movement would be a recommendation.
Farmers and Cowmen	Mature men			Tenors and Basses	No age restriction
Children	2 boys and 2 girls	8 – 12			The girls must be dancers

DREAM BALLET CAST:
Laurey, Curly and Jud		If “real principal characters” have formal dance training, they may be used for the “ballet characters” as well.
Dancers	6 x Girlfriends of Laurey’s / 6 x Cowboys / 6 x Female Music Hall Girls / 3 x “Poscard” Girls / 1 x Little Girl	Any “real chorus members” with formal dance training or experience will be considered for the “ballet characters” as well.

• Trained dancers who audition for the principal roles of Laurey, Curly and Jud and the chorus parts of Laurey’s Girlfriends and the Cowboys, are requested to attend the Dance Audition as well;
• Dancers with good singing voices will generally also be required to be part of the Chorus;
• The cameo roles of Ike Skidmore, Cord Elam, Slim, Fred, Vivian, Ellen, Faye and Virginia also form part of the Chorus;
• The full company except for Ali Hakim, Gertie Cummings and Jud Fry will sing the major “Oklahoma!” number in Act 2.

 

 

SPECIAL OFFER

The Encyclopedia of the Musical Theatre by Kurt Ganzl is an excellent source of reference for all aspects of Musical Theatre.  It is published in two volumes, beautifully bound, as a “boxed set”.

Several brand new copies of this work are available for sale at the very low price of R400 per set.  A new set advertised on Amazon.com would cost upwards of R1000.

If anyone is interested in purchasing a set of these encyclopedias, please contact Alastair Cockburn via email to alastairc@artscape.co.za    Alastair is acting on behalf of an independent elderly gentleman who has a small stock of this publication.

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