Gaslight – November 2011

GASLIGHT

NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY
VOLUME 18, ISSUE 6 – NOVEMBER 2011

Hello everyone

The year hastens on apace, and for the Society it has generally been a good year. But we can’t dwell in the past, no matter how pleasant that past may be. The Society Social and FIDDLER reunion held on 22 October was reasonably well attended and we were able to celebrate FIDDLER’S success and relive some special moments as we looked back and watched excerpts from the DVD. But now, as the excitement of FIDDLER
fades to a satisfying memory, it’s time to look forward to new things. Auditions for Yeomen have been held
and there are some difficult decisions to be made. As soon as the cast has been settled, we’ll let you know.

There is one final look back to FIDDLER, though – the Production Account meeting (known as the Teardown
Meeting). This will be held at the Pinelands Club on Tuesday 13th December at 19.30. You will receive
formal notice of this meeting very shortly.

YEOMEN OF THE GUARD

It’s confirmed that Teddy Davies will again direct, in tandem with Alastair Cockburn as musical director. And it seems there is an excellent chance that the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra will again be available to
accompany our singers. It is intended that this will be a “classic” production, which, after its June run at the Artscape Theatre – probably for about 10 performances – will hopefully be taken to the Buxton Festival in the UK in August next year.

Some background
The Yeomen of the Guard premiered at the Savoy Theatre in London on 3 October 1888. It was the 11th
Gilbert and Sullivan collaboration and ran for 423 performances. Prior to this, all the G&S operas had been light comical pieces, often hinging on some unlikely contrivance such as a magic potion or babies mixed up at birth, or involving fantastical fairies or ghosts. Sullivan, though enjoying the recognition (and money) that came his way as a result of his work with Gilbert, wanted to write grand opera. He was becoming disenchanted with Gilbert’s frivolous themes as they didn’t allow him the opportunity to write more serious music. Gilbert tried to meet Sullivan half way and came up with a more serious story set in the Tower of London in the 16th century. Sullivan liked it and wrote in his diary “Pretty story, no topsy turvydom, very human, and funny also.” Sullivan used this opportunity to write his most ambitious score to date. Yeomen differs from all the other G&S operas in that its tone is darker, the music is on a ‘grander’ scale, no British institution is satirised, it has a bittersweet ending, and, alone among all the operas, the opening scene does not involve the chorus, but a single figure seated at a spinning wheel.

Greetings from the UK
Sue Sims-Handcock sends greetings – and a photo of herself (front, centre) in the Australian production of Yeomen performed at this year’s Buxton festival. She says the singing was of a high standard, but the costumes left something to be desired. She hopes our yeomen will grow beards as the false ones looked awful! She and Stafford have joined the Godalming Operatic Society who propose to take Gondoliers to Buxton next year. So they hope to see us there.

GILBERT AND SULLIVAN – A MOTLEY PAIR
Simon Butteriss is probably today’s foremost exponent of the G&S “patter” roles. He has devised and presents a 5 part series on ‘the phenomenon of Gilbert and Sullivan’. In it he explores the life, lyrics and music of the gifted pair and looks at the way they have influenced subsequent practitioners worldwide.
The series is available in a 2 DVD set at R350 from Peter Kramer. Order from him on 021-5320551, or dynamite@sybaweb.co.za Unfortunately, they won’t be here in time for Christmas.

OPSKOP!
We usually close each year with some kind of ‘bash’ on 16 December. This year we are going to repeat what
we did a couple of years ago, and go along to support a fellow Amdram society in their Christmas offering.
Pinelands Players are presenting HONK! (the Ugly Duckling musical) at the Little Theatre from 9-17
December. The show is directed by Kyla Thorburn and features a number of folk well known to us in G&S.
We have arranged to make block bookings at the matinee and the evening shows on the 16th, and we will gather at the theatre for a social between the shows.

Details as follows: If you wish to attend the matinee, it starts at 14.30 and the cost is R80 per ticket. The evening show starts at 19.30 and tickets cost R100 each. Our function will be held in a private room at the theatre and will begin soon after the end of the matinee. We hope those who attend both shows (plus some of the HONK! cast) will join us for snacks and drinks (cash bar) from around 18.00.

If you’re coming you need to do two things:
1. Pay for your tickets.
2. For catering purposes, advise either Guilma on 084 5891812, or Audrey at arobin@dkvg.co.za Any HONK
cast members who will join us, please also advise for catering purposes.
And you need to do this before 9th December!
(If you’ve already booked for another day and want to change your tickets so that you can join us, please
contact Tina Gough direct (072-9231035) and, as a favour to G&S, she will change your booking.)

FROM SISTER SOCIETIES
From 29 November to 10 December, Hottentot Holland Dramatic Society presents Are you being Served at
the Playhouse in Somerset West. Based on the popular BBC comedy. Book
at Computicket.

Milnerton Players present FORBIDDEN BROADWAY’S GREATEST HITS at the Milnerton Playhouse from 25 November to 10 December. It’s described as an hilarious, irreverent spoof of Broadway musicals and personalities.
Bookings at http://www.milnertonplayers.com or 082-2671061

Constantiaberg Theatre Players extend an invitation to all societies to attend their year-end member’s evening on Wednesday, 7 December. It’s in the form of a “Weakest Link” quiz evening starting at 19.30, at the Bergvliet Guide Hall. Contact Wesley at wes@mseed.co.za for more info.

Sympathy
Since our last newsletter, we have learnt that Bronwyne Scott’s father passed away unexpectedly. Our loving sympathy to you Bron.

We also heard with sadness of the death of Tony Stiglingh who has appeared in several of our productions
over the years. Our sympathies to his family.

And that’s it from GASLIGHT for this year. Warm seasonal greetings to you all from Exco. And to those celebrating Christmas, be blessed.

Till next year
Ken

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Audition – The Yeomen of the Guard

THE YEOMEN OF THE GUARD
or
The Merryman and his Maid

The Cape Town Gilbert and Sullivan Society who brought you the outstanding and lavish productions of My Fair Lady, H.M.S. Pinafore – The Musical, Annie and most recently the highly acclaimed production of Fiddler on the Roof, will stage Gilbert and Sullivan’s classic tragic-comedy The Yeomen of the Guard at the Artscape Theatre in June 2012. Thereafter, it is intended that the production will transfer to the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival in Buxton, UK during August 2012. Yeomen is the nearest that Gilbert and Sullivan got to achieving something close to “real” opera. It is a wonderful work with stunning chorus work and beautiful solos and ensembles, all accompanied by full symphony orchestra, and the story- line is believable and dramatic with underlying typical Gilbertian comedy mingled with tragedy on this occasion. Gilbert said that he regarded it as ‘…the best thing we have done’ and Sullivan declared that it was his favourite of all their joint works.

Director Teddy Davies and musical director Alastair Cockburn who have collaborated in bringing so many wonderfully successful Savoy Operas to Cape Town audiences in the past are once again teamed up. The CPO will again play for this production.

Generally, several of the lead principal cast require trained “operatic” voices and good singers are needed for the splendid four-part harmony chorus work. Please go to the Society website http://www.gilbertandsullivan.co.za for full particulars. (If for some reason the information does not appear on the Home Page – click on Productions – then click on the 2012 window)

The principals are required to sing a number from the score (on website) pertaining to the particular character for which they wish to audition and the chorus may sing a piece of their own choice, generally and preferably in “classical” style. Several chorus numbers from “Fiddler on the Roof” for example would suffice, but pop songs in an American accent should be avoided. You may download and complete the Audition Form and bring it with you, or you may complete one at the audition venue. All the above may be found on the website.

All those auditioning must be available to perform in Buxton, UK in the beautiful Victorian Opera House on Thursday 16 August (was Monday 13). The plans are currently intended for the G&S Society to subsidise participants by paying half the travel costs and the full accommodation costs in Buxton. Special consideration will be given to Society members who wish to perform in the production but are unable to commit themselves to Buxton.

Auditions will be held at the Artscape Theatre Complex, Rehearsal Room 301 (entrance via the stage door) in November on the following days: Chorus: Saturday 19 and Principals: Sunday 20 both from 10.00am. Recalls will be as follow: Chorus: Saturday 26 and Principals: Sunday 27 both from 2.00pm. You are kindly requested to email yeomen.auditions@gmail.com giving your name and contact number to book an audition time.

THE CAST

The Yeomen of the Guard
(Set in the Tower of London in the 15th Century)

Vocal Ranges and Vocal Descriptions of the Principals

Elsie Maynard : (A Strolling Singer/Minstrel girl.) A lyrical, young, bright soprano. Must have excellent diction and attention to detail whilst able to create a beautiful line. (Top B-flat required)

Kate: (Dame Carruthers’ niece.) A cameo soprano role. Must have a musical ear and excellent ensemble singing ability. Also sings with the chorus sopranos. (Top G required)

Phoebe Meryll : (Sergeant Meryll’s daughter.) A very light, easy and young mezzo. Higher notes (top C to F) must come relatively easily but must also be strong and resonant all the way through the lower range of the voice. Could be a soprano with a strong lower register. (Bottom A-flat below middle-C required)

Dame Carruthers : (Housekeeper to the Tower of London.) A mature, rich, resonant contralto or mezzo. Good strong low notes with real power in the higher register. (Range from G below middle-C to top F)

Colonel Fairfax : (Prisoner in the Tower – under sentence of death.) A strong, secure and clear tenor. Must have a strong presence in the higher register (top A-flat required), but not too overpowering or ‘heavy’ – this tenor must be able to navigate in the head voice with ease and delicacy.

Leonard Meryll : (Son of Sergeant Meryll.) A light tenor who is very at ease with the top notes (top A-Flat required) and excellent ensemble singing ability.

1st and 2nd Yeomen: Two of the chorus Yeomen who have solo lines, one is a high baritone (or tenor) and the other a bass-baritone.

Jack Point: (A Strolling Jester and friend of Elsie Maynard.) A comic light baritone with a good solid range. Light and easy at the top, rich and resonant at the bottom. Must have impeccable diction and an easy, light, but very secure voice. (Range from A below middle-C to top F)

Wilfred Shadbolt : (Head Jailor and Assistant Tormentor – Torturer – in the Tower of London.) Solid baritone with a bit of weight to it. Not too ‘heavy’ especially as the voice ascends into his upper register. (Range from A below middle-C to top E)

Sir Richard Cholmondeley : (Lieutenant of the Tower of London.) A nice rich, pleasant bass-baritone voice but still is relatively flexible and not too ‘heavy’. Good ensemble singing required. (Range same as Wilfred Shadbolt – see above)

Sergeant Meryll : (Sergeant of the Yeomen of the Guard of the Tower of London.) Bass-baritone or bass. Very secure rhythmically. Must have depth and richness to the voice and sound very weighty and mature. (Range from low G to top E-flat)

1st and 2nd Citizens: Two members of the male citizen chorus with solo spoken lines.

1 Male and 1 Female Strolling Players: These are two youngish dancers and also members of the Citizens Chorus.

Chorus of Yeomen: The Yeomen comprise mature men divided up into 1st and 2nd tenors and 1st and 2nd basses for their male-voice choruses. Otherwise they join the full chorus of citizens, singing tenor and bass. The Yeomen need to have good choral voices and the ability to sing ensemble (male-voice choir) well.

Chorus of Citizens: The large chorus of Londoners generally has stunning music to sing – the best choral music in the entire G & S repertoire. The chorus comprises ladies and men (sopranos, altos, tenors and basses) of all ages, shapes and sizes and offers the opportunity of creating wonderful individual characters from sophisticated ladies and men to street urchin type youngsters.

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Gaslight – September 2011

GASLIGHT
NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY
VOLUME 18, ISSUE 5 – SEPTEMBER 2011
http://www.gilbertandsullivan.co.za

Hello everyone
Spring has sprung – or so some would have us believe. But as I look at the rather bleak scene outside my
window right now, I remain to be convinced. And the Springboks have sprung from the blocks and kicked
off the defence of their World Cup crown. Can they retain it? Again, I remain to be convinced. However,
there’s nothing unconvincing about the way “Fiddler” has kicked off its run. And so to …

The Final Fiddler Files
Fiddler is set to be a resounding success. The reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, and comment from the average “bum on seat” (if you know what I mean!) has been extremely enthusiastic.

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to all who brought the show to life – the months of planning, the design and making of sets and costumes, the long weeks of rehearsals, and then the wonderful performances on
stage, backstage, and in the orchestra pit. Thank you one and all – you’ve done us proud. To those of you for whom this was your first G&S Society show, we hope to see you back again some time soon.

And what have the critics been saying?
The Cape Times headline: From Sunrise to Sunset, it’s a winner.
Mariana Malan in Die Burger: Die Gilbert & Sullivan Vereniging van Kaapstad sit op ‘n goudmyn van
potensiële professionele akteurs en sangers – Dit is moeilik om te glo dat almal, van die hoofkarakters tot
die enorme groep byspelers, amateurs is.

Beverley Brommert – Argus/IOL: There is nothing small about this polished production … it boasts a
large cast, lavish visuals and a big heart. … With so much to commend it visually and aurally, this
offering from the Gilbert and Sullivan Society deserves every one of its four stars.

Daniel Dercksen: Fiddler on the Roof is bold, brave and beautifully sassy, a musical for everyone to
enjoy, no matter whether you are a fan of musical theatre or not … You are guaranteed to leave the theatre with a song in your heart and a story and characters that will constantly remind you that true happiness is only a musical away.

John Caviggia – FMR: For an enthralling evening’s entertainment, I recommend you wander to watch and
listen to “Fiddler On The Roof” at the Artscape Opera House … every word can be heard – professionalism is evident with the entire cast … If you want to spend an enchanted evening, I thoroughly recommend you attend a performance at the Artscape Opera House of “Fiddler On The Roof”.

2012 – YEOMEN OF THE GUARD

As mentioned in the last GASLIGHT, our big show next year will be the Gilbert and Sullivan opera “The
Yeomen of the Guard”. It will run in the Artscape Theatre in June, and a performance has been
provisionally booked for us at the International Festival of Gilbert and Sullivan in Buxton, UK, on Monday
13th August.

“Yeomen” is the least frivolous of the G&S operas, and the only one that doesn’t have an entirely “happy
ending”. Jack Point and Elsie Maynard, two travelling minstrels, get caught up in a scheme to save Colonel
Fairfax, who has been unjustly sentenced to death. Sergeant Meryll of the Yeomen of the Guard, and his
daughter Phoebe, contrive to help Fairfax to escape. The plot goes on to involve switched identities, the
mandatory complicated romantic interest, and eventually, after a typically convoluted G&S story line, ends
happily enough – except for Jack Point. It all plays out against the backdrop of the Tower of London, where
the yeomen, more familiarly known to us today as the “Beefeaters”, are the prison warders.

Auditions will probably be held early next year. Watch this space! Principal roles include Jack Point
(baritone), Elsie Maynard (soprano), Col Fairfax (tenor), Dame Carruthers (alto), Sgt Meryll (baritone),
Phoebe Meryll (alto), Wilfred Shadbolt (bass) and Sir Richard Cholmondeley (baritone). There are several
minor roles, and an extensive chorus of yeomen and villagers will be required.

May I remind you that if you hope to be in the cast and be part of the group that goes to Buxton, you will
need to meet a significant portion of the costs yourself. We hope to secure some sponsorship, but that
cannot be guaranteed at this stage. Hopefully there will be more concrete information by the next edition
of GASLIGHT.

FROM SISTER SOCIETIES

Support our fellow thespians where you can:

Constantiaberg Theatre Players present Steel Magnolias at the Masque from 16-24 September. Bookings
021 7881898.

Fish Hoek Dramatic Society offers us Hayfever, also at the Masque from 7-15 October. Bookings 021
7881898.

At the Bergkroon Theatre in Wellington: The Sound of Music (Adri Louw is in the cast). From 13-16
October. Bookings: tickets@wellingtonproductionhouse.co.za

Hottentots Holland Dramatic Society presents Days of Wine and Roses at the Playhouse in Somerset West
from 25 October – 5 November.

And as we get towards the end of the year, Claremont Dramatic Society presents Separate Tables at the
Masque from 18-26 November, and the Pinelands Players Christmas offering is Honk! at the Little Theatre
from 9-17 December (directed by Kyla Thorburn).

ROTARY AWARD
On 20th June 2011 the Rotary Club of Newlands presented our Society with a Vocational certificate
acknowledging our rôle in advancing the careers of members in the performing arts over many years. The
award resulted from a nomination by Rotarian Bill Holland (thank you Bill), who has been a musical director
for G&S – most recently as assistant MD for Annie last year – and was received by Chairman Steve
Broekmann on behalf of the Society.

Inter-Society Quiz

This annual event is scheduled for Sunday 9th October and will be hosted by last year’s winners,
Constantiaberg Theatre Players. Venue is the foyer of the Masque theatre, and the doors open at 17.30,
with the main quiz starting at 18.30. We have already entered one team (Lorna Hansen, Teddy Davies,
Cindy Nixon and Gwen Sharland) but we can enter more – if there is enough interest to make up another
team. Teams have to be in multiples of four, so if you want to be part of the fun and be included in a team, please contact Lorna who will supervise our teams. (lorna@revelfox.co.za) ‘She’ll give you any further information.’

CONGRATULATIONS! – to Yolanda Kotze and and Guilma Stander whose company, Siggis Make-Up (most of us have used their products!) was nominated for the 2011 Small Business Awards. Sadly they didn’t win, but they can be justly proud of the fact that they were nominated.

If you give me your attention …
Now is not that ridiculous, and is not that preposterous, a thorough-paced absurdity, explain it if you can! Not a soul was prepared to give me their attention. Oh, Woe is me, alack-a-day. So I’ll just have to be contented with your heartfelt sympathy. If I have that, then I guess I’ve nothing whatever to grumble at! (And if you haven’t read the last couple of GASLIGHTs, that last paragraph will make very strange reading!)

Till next time – a blessing on all your heads!

Ken

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Gaslight – August 2011

GASLIGHT NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY VOLUME 18, ISSUE 4 – JULY/AUGUST 2011

Hello everyone

It’s all about “Fiddler” at the moment, though Exco is giving some serious thought to next year. More of that anon. But back to “Fiddler” …

The Fiddler Files

Rehearsals seem to be going well, although there is the usual chaotic result that when you try to add movement to the music, the quality of the music suddenly takes a huge dive! But … we’ve been there before, and no doubt it will be alright on the night!

Your scribe was present the first time the cast rehearsed the very poignant final scenes, and it was very obvious that several cast members were themselves deeply moved. The tears being shed were definitely not just for effect! All of which augurs well for a powerful finale when the show hits the boards.
No Darryl, this is how it’s done! Very fetching, Guilma, but not quite your colour.

Saturday 9th July saw the cast and others involved with the show getting together for a ‘Mid-rehearsal Luncheon’ hosted at John Carne’s beautiful home in Constantia (thanks John). A pleasantly relaxed and sociable afternoon was enjoyed by all. Thanks to those who organised everything.

Tickets.
Fiddler will run at the Artscape Opera House from Friday 9 September to Saturday 1 October.
Ticket prices range from R150-200 for Friday and Saturday evenings, with weekend matinee prices being
R50 cheaper. Wednesdays and Thursdays, R120-170 (no performances on Mondays or Tuesdays). Pref
tickets, bought through cast members, are R20-30 cheaper in each category. Bookings are now open at
Computicket.

FROM THE ROOFTOP

The “fiddler” himself shares his perspective on what he sees from his elevated perch … For its cast of young and old, first-timers and G&S veterans, for the mamma’s and the pappa’s – Fiddler on the Roof is fast becoming the very reason we have to live. With a four day a week rehearsal schedule there is little room to hum any other tune but one sung with either a Russian or Jewish accent. And the cast – complete with long rehearsal skirted women and men growing beards – are a spirited bunch enjoying every minute.
The songs have all been taught and rehearsed and it’s almost time to throw out the scripts and put on the costumes! Make-up has been checked and ordered and the cast has begun worrying about what they might do when the show is over.

Finding a favourite rehearsal number is quite a challenge amongst this energetic cast as each song is proving to be special in its own way. If it’s not the spine chilling harmonies, it’s the challenging
set changes or unforgettable moments spent polishing up the choreography with Roxy in a full swing identity crisis instructing a whole variety of postures and poises. Or it’s just the pure chaotic fun to be had in ‘the dream’ scene where everyone gets to put on a scary face and enjoy the momentary mayhem. One thing is certain – the energy of a bygone time and faraway place comes to life in a very real way through the beautiful melodies and fun script! And we get to enjoy it at every rehearsal! Even the saddest scenes of this production carry a special energy that entertains even I who watches them repeatedly while I fiddle away (in silence lest I incur the wrath of Alistair)

One of the most memorable rehearsal moments was Teddy’s flashy and oh-so-colourful gangster walk when showing the Russians how not to walk off stage. Our quirky director knows just when to break the stress of any show rehearsal and just makes us love and respect him all the more.

Even though the Fiddler’s roof is still being hammered together at the Epping warehouse – my view thus far is both heart-warming and inspiring. With a backstage crew pushing about a set that began invisibly as a maze of markings – the very thorough planning is shining through as we are getting a very real feel for all the pieces and props. Some of the cast still feel that real beer and not sand in the beer mugs would make the ‘To Life’ scene more lively, but Teddy says some clicking and a few loud shouts will do the trick! The bright faces, friendly smiles and perfect voices bring together a warmth that would keep me warm for a hundred winters in Anatevka. As we all journey to our rehearsals from all over the Cape, we unite in G&S throng as we escape the squalors of the real world and share in a ‘tradition’ of our own! A month from now we will have a show ready for an audience and as I continue to ponder why a man would take his fiddle to the rooftops and serenade the open skies – each rehearsal offers me a new insight, a new reason – and I know we are in for an especially memorable run. So best you all book soon… the best seat in the house is already taken!

With love from Darryl, the Fiddler

2012 – YEOMEN OF THE GUARD

Our big show next year will be the Gilbert and Sullivan opera “The Yeomen of the Guard”. It will run in the Artscape Theatre round about June, with the hope that it will be taken to the International Festival of Gilbert and Sullivan in Buxton, UK, in August. Potential directors are being approached, and auditions will probably be held before the end of the year, with rehearsals beginning in February next year. If you hope to be in the cast and be part of the group that goes to Buxton, it would be wise to begin to save and plan now. We hope to secure some sponsorship, but that cannot be guaranteed at this stage – and in any event, even with sponsorship, each cast member will still need to find a significant part of the costs.

FROM SISTER SOCIETIES (and other sisters)

Forever Plaid is Pinelands Players’ production for the annual mid-year Candelight Theatre at the Pinelands Town Hall. 25 July – 7 August 2011. Directed by June Wells, musical direction by Victor Tichardt. Tickets cost R100 which includes an American Diner style meal. Bookings: 0729231035 or bgough@telkomsa.net.
‘Together at Last’ – the Harris sisters. For the first time ever, Kim, Julie, Bronwen and Victoria, will sing and dance their favourites from Broadway and other popular classics. They are accompanied by the talents of Ivan Meredith on piano, Keith Coxen on drums, and Gareth Smit on bass guitar. Tap dances choreographed by Johann Kotze and script written by Michael Harris.
Performances: 12 August 8pm. R70 13 August Matinee 2.30pm. R65 13 August 6.30pm. R70
Contact the Masque Theatre in Muizenberg to book on 021 7881898.

Carnivals of the heart: Our “Fiddler” (Darryl) has extended the following invitation to all Fiddler cast and crew, as well as all G&S members. The show runs from 3-6 August, but …: On Friday 5 August, you are invited to watch the re-run of my May show ‘People Are Living There’ by Athol Fugard at R50 per person at the MASQUE. (R10 off) Perhaps you can arrange an arrival drink? We can also extend the interval? The moving drama ‘The Doubting’ runs at Hathersage House, Somerset West 17-20 August. On the 19th we would like to offer buy on get one free to Fiddler cast / crew / orchestra / G&S members. Tickets are R80. Book through. Bronwyn@radis.co.za. Go to http://www.carnivals-of-the-heart.com for more info.

Hairspray – The Musical – 24 Aug-3 Sept – presented by The Waterfront Theatre College at the Masque (021-7881898). A large cast of singers and dancers in a fun family show. Tickets R70.

Thank you

Exco would like to place on record our thanks (and the thanks of the Society as a whole) to our long-serving wardrobe mistress Heather Earp-Jones. Heather and Rogan have moved to Onrus, and the wardrobe duties have been taken over by Glenda Carmichael. Heather has not just ‘managed the wardrobe’; she has also always been very much hands-on with costumes and has been nominated for and won several CATA awards. Thank you Heather for the sterling work done on behalf of the Society. Without you, we wouldn’t have looked nearly as good!

If you give me your attention …
Well, it seems no one was prepared to give me their attention on this one. But I’ll give it one more shot. So my gallant crew, if you find yourself thinking of, or using one of Gilbert’s lines in the course of some everyday situation, even if not within the original Gilbertian context, let me know. In my own case, for example, when I listen to some of our politicians holding forth, for some reason I find myself humming Tell a tale of cock and bull, of convincing detail full. What about you? You can stir it and stump it and blow your own trumpet, and trust me you have every chance of having it published in the next GASLIGHT. (See my email address at the end of the newsletter.)

WEBSITE
Have you checked our website recently? http://www.gilbertandsullivan.co.za There have been some recent additions, with more to come. For example, go to ‘Productions’, then to 2011, click on Fiddler and scroll down to see some photos of recent rehearsals.

YOUR COMMITTEE
Need to speak to someone with a bouquet or a brickbat? A reminder that your Exco for this year is:
Steve Broekmann – Chair Niel Roux – Secretary Lance Kotze – Treasurer and website Guilma Stander – membership and social Lynn Moss – future productions Audrey Robinson – social Ian Kirkwood – membership David Bolton – marketing Ken Leverton – Gaslight

Till next time …
Ken klever@telkomsa.net

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Gaslight – June 2011

GASLIGHT
NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY
VOLUME 18, ISSUE 3 – JUNE 2011

Hello everyone

Some of you are receiving GASLIGHT for the first time, as you have joined the Gilbert and Sullivan Society in order to take part in FIDDLER. Welcome! We trust your association with us will be a happy one, and extend to future shows as well. May 29th marked the 100th anniversary of the death of Sir William Schwenck Gilbert. He died at the age of 74 whilst trying to rescue a young lady who had got into difficulties while swimming in a lake at Gilbert’s home. He suffered a heart attack and drowned. It had been some 15 years since his last collaboration with Sir Arthur Sullivan. The legacy of that collaboration lives on – and we are the happy beneficiaries. We pause to honour the memory of one of the most gifted librettists in the English language.

The Fiddler Files

Sunday 1st May saw the cast and others involved with the show getting together for the first time in a “Getting to know you”
party. What made this a little different from the usual GTKY parties was that this one started at the Jewish Museum in Hatfield Street. We were given an insight into certain Jewish customs, and, in particular, viewed a reconstruction of a typical shtetl of the kind in which Tevye and his family might have lived. We were given an explanation of their way of life with its traditions and hazards. All in all, an excellent idea as a very appropriate venue! The party then shifted to a rather more convivial location for refreshments and introductions.

Music rehearsals are now well underway and making excellent progress. It’s noticeable that a few of the gents are beginning to look a little more hairy than we are accustomed to seeing them!

Fiddler will run at the Artscape Opera House from Friday 9 September to Saturday 1 October. Ticket prices will range from R150-200 for Friday and Saturday evenings, with weekend matinee prices being R50 cheaper. Wednesdays and Thursdays, R120-170 (no performances on Mondays or Tuesdays). Pref tickets, bought through cast members, are R20-30 cheaper in each category.

CONCERT GROUP

There are already a couple of concerts on the horizon for early next year. Bearing in mind that there is an existing core ‘concert group’, if you would like to be considered when a vacancy arises, please give your name to Lorna. When there is a vacancy in the group, she will contact you. However, please be aware of the following:

* The group has to be small (max 24) as some of the venues cannot accommodate more than that.

* When a vacancy occurs in the group, it will be filled by someone of the same voice part, not necessarily by the next name on the list.
* Sometimes a vacancy needs to be filled by someone who can sing a solo or two.

* Rehearsals are few, so it helps if you can read music or have some knowledge of the G&S operas.

FROM OUR SISTER SOCIETIES

Claremont Dramatic Society presents MACBETH from 1-9 July 2011 at the Masque Theatre.
Directed by Clifford Graham. Contact him on 083 948 9115.

The Pinelands Players production for their annual mid-year Candelight Theatre at the Pinelands Town Hall is FOREVER PLAID directed by June Wells. 25 July – 7 August.

Hottentots Holland Dramatic Society will present DRIVING MISS DAISY in the Playhouse Theatre, Somerset West, from 19-30 July. Booking at Computicket.

Message from Glenda re our Wardrobe in Tenby Road, Wynberg:

Hi, everyone!

As Heather, who has managed the wardrobe so effectively for so many years, will be moving to Onrus later this year, she has asked me to take over the wardrobe management. I’d like to give her a huge “thank you” for the sterling work that she has done, in what is probably the most difficult and unappreciated job in the Society. Lorna and I have always been very happy to work with her and help whenever and wherever necessary.

I have had a long discussion with our Executive Committee, and we have decided that from now onwards, because of the huge escalation in the costs of acquiring our many wonderful costumes, and the inevitable damage and losses which occur when we lend them out, we will unfortunately no longer be able to lend or hire them to other societies or individuals.

On another note, the Wardrobe building is in very poor condition, and our tenancy will only last until the Council decide to go ahead with the Wynberg bypass, at which time it will be demolished. So, we are looking for a new storage facility, with a low rental – perhaps in an industrial area which is easy for us to access, and preferably with some sort of security. If anybody has any suggestions to make about this, please contact me at glendac@tiscali.co.za.

If you give me your attention …

In an article in a recent “Gilbert and Sullivan News” (magazine of the Gilbert and Sullivan Society in London, with which our own Society is affiliated), the writer spoke of how certain Gilbertian lines from the operas suggest themselves in the course of daily life – even if not always within the original Gilbertian context. For example, when the grandchildren visit: There are one or two rules, half a dozen maybe … (I can relate to that!) Or when you’re trying to phone Telkom/SARS etc. and have been holding for 20 minutes because ‘your call is important to them’: I can’t sit up here all day; I must shortly get away … Or those occasions when someone dares to question whether you really did leave your missing keys on the sideboard: Of that there is no manner of doubt – no probable, possible shadow of doubt … Or, do you say ‘Hey, I’ve got an idea’ when you could say: If you give me your attention …
So, I wondered whether any of you out there had other examples to share of situations in life when a line or two from one of the G&S operas just seems like a perfect fit. Let me know, and I’ll publish the best ones in the next GASLIGHT. (klever@telkomsa.net )

WEBSITE

Have you checked our website recently? http://www.gilbertandsullivan.co.za Lance has been doing his best to keep it up to date.

Receiving GASLIGHT by post?

If you have an email address but still receive GASLIGHT by post, please let me have your email address. It will save the Society money, and save me time. It will also mean you get your GASLIGHT more promptly and in colour.

Till next time …

Ken

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Gaslight – April 2011

GASLIGHT
NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY
VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2 – APRIL 2011

Greetings!

This edition reflects a whole bunch of decision-making: a cast for “FIDDLER”, a new G&S Exco, and the
recipients of various awards. So let’s get straight to it. The news we’ve all been waiting for ………

After many long hours of auditions and callbacks, and many more long hours of discussion and decision-making, eventually the casting process for FIDDLER ON THE ROOF was completed. Congratulations to those who have been successful.

The cast list is as follows:
CHARACTER /MAIN CAST / SUPPORT/SWINGS/U.Study
THE FIDDLER /DARRYL SPIJKERS /JOHAN MARAIS
TEVYE /SHAUN BROWNE /DAVID BOLTON
GOLDE/ JULIE DICKSON/ MICHELLE GALLOWAY
TZEITEL /ASHLEIGH DOWNES /PHOEBE SNAYER
HODEL/ AMI-ROSE BARBER /CLAIRE SIMONIS
CHAVA/ DANIELLE SCHER /KATE OLMESDAHL
SCHPRINTZE/ EMILY SCHNEIDER or EMILY TURNBULL
BIELKE /HELENA COMITIS or NAOMI FOKKENS
YENTE/ MICHELLE GALLOWAY/ LIORA STANDER
MOTEL/ JULIAN FERNANDEZ /KEENAN OLIPHANT
PERCHICK/ DANIEL FISHER /CHRISTOPHER THOMAS
FYEDKA/ MARIUS BOTHA /CHRISTOPHER THOMAS
LAZAR WOLF/ JOHN CARNE/ IAN KIRKWOOD
MORDCHA/ BRUCE CLAYTON/ DUDONNE DIEGAARDT
RABBI /BRIAN DE KOCK /GARY COLLINS
MENDEL YUSSEL/ DANIEL HORWITZ or DEAN DE KLERK
AVRAM /WAYNE TUCKER/ DUDONNE DIEGAARDT
GRANM TZEITEL /TO BE CAST/ LORNA HANSEN
FRUMA–SARAH/ MELISSA SANDERSON /TBA
CONSTABLE/ DARREN TELFORD /TBA
SHANDEL/ TO BE CAST
RIFKA/ LEZEL GUNTER /GUILMA STANDER
ESTHER/ NAWAAL HOWAL /GUILMA STANDER
IVAN (RUSSIAN TENOR)/ FERDI OOSTHUIZEN /TBA
PRIEST /ADRIAN KETTLE

MAMAS
ADRI LOUW, AUDREY ROBINSON, FIONA WEIR, GLENDA CARMICHAEL, GUILMA STANDER, LEE DE ANDRADE, LEZEL GUNTER, LINDA GAWRONSKY, LORNA HANSEN, MARIZA DIQUE, MICHELLE USHER, MICHELLE SCHER, NAWAAL HOWA, NICOLE McINTYRE, VERONICA MILLER, YOLANDA KOTZE

DAUGHTERS
ALEXANADRA CLAYTON, ALLANA ALDRIDGE, AMY TROUT, CLAIRE SMITH, GEORGIA CROESER, KIRSTY DU PLESSIS, MADELEEN FALK, MEGAN PATON, RENE SILJEUR, TEGAN PEACOCK

PAPAS
DUDONNE DIEGAARDT, FREDDIE KUEHIRT, GARY COLLINS, GRAHAM GOBLE, GREG LAWSON, JEROME JACOBS, KEITH BENJAMIN, LOURENS ERASMUS, LYLE WILSON, STEVE BROEKMANN, VERNON DESCHAMPS

SONS
ALEX MIDDLEBROOK, BULELANI NKUME, CHRISTOPHER KING, DANE MARAIS, DOUGLAS MIDDLEBROOK, JAMES MARITZ, JUSTIN DE VRIES, RIAAN VAN GREUNEN

(Principals and swings/understudies will join the mamas, papas, daughters, sons when not performing.)

RUSSIANS
CORNE OPPERMAN, DAVID O’BRYAN, GABRIEL HOFFMAN, JOHAN MARAIS, JOHNATHAN BEVAN, MATTHEW MARTIN, PATRICK O’BRYAN

We wish you well as you begin rehearsals and look forward to an outstanding show in due course.

AGM
The AGM took place at the Pinelands Club on 8 March.

First item of business was the annual awards. First
up were the awards presented by the Honorary Life Members, represented by Teddy Davies.

1. HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS CUP FOR THE BEST PERFORMANCE IN A MUSICAL: Graham Boxall, for
his fine portrayal of Oliver Warbucks in “Annie”.

2. HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS CUP FOR AN EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE IN A GILBERT AND SULLIVAN
OPERA OR A MUSICAL: David Bolton, for his portrayal of Rooster Hannigan.

3. THE EUNICE WILLIAMS CUP FOR AN EXCELLENT TECHNICAL OR ARTISTIC CONTRIBUTION IN A
GILBERT AND SULLIVAN OPERA OR A MUSICAL: Awarded jointly to Kyla Thorburn for her
magnificent job as Director, and Morag Tyson, for her brilliant managing of the props.

4. CERTIFICATES OF MERIT: Presented to Roxy Levy, both casts of orphans, Julia Holzberg, Kirsty Du
Plessis, and Guilma Stander, for their huge contribution to the success of “Annie”.

Two other Society awards were made:
1. The PETER DONALDSON Award for service above the usual call of duty went to Adrian van Stolk,
for his inspired, dedicated and effective business management of “Annie”

2. The JOHAN ROUX Award for her contribution to the spirit of the Society, particularly in her role as
Production Secretary for “Annie”, to Jennifer Moss.

Warm congratulations to all!

Your EXCO for this year is:

Honorary Chair: Steve Broekman
Secretary: Niel Roux
Treasurer: Lance Kotze
Additional members: David Bolton, Ian Kirkwood, Ken Leverton, Lynn Moss, Audrey Robinson, Guilma Stander.

These are the people to whom you may direct your bouquets and brickbats.

CATA AWARDS

The annual CATA awards evening was on 1 March. And … Leaping lizards! “Annie” did us proud!

Julia Holzberg and Kirsty du Plessis claimed special Junior Awards; certificates of Excellence went to Graham
Boxall for the best male solo, as well as the Orphan’s chorus and the adult chorus; Roxy Levy and Kyla
Thorburn were recognised for choreography; the best supporting actor and actress in a musical went to
David Bolton and Jennifer Moss; Shaun Browne and Graham Boxall shared the award for best actor in a
musical; Kyla was voted best director of a musical, and to top it all off, the best musical was … ANNIE!
Hope I haven’t missed anyone. Congratulations one and all! Well deserved in every case.

CONCERTS

Over the past few weeks, the G&S Concert group has presented 5 concerts: 3 at Homes for Senior Citizens,
one for a church womens’s group, and concluding with an invitation from the Hermanus Musical Society.
This is Lorna’s account of the Hermanus trip. ‘And in this case, it all took place exactly as she says’!
It was with a sense of delicious decadence that I slipped out of the office at lunchtime on Friday 25 March, in
order to have plenty of time to get to Hermanus. It was a glorious, champagne day, with the sun shining
brightly, and a little breeze. Cyndy, Richard, Adrian, Ken, and I met at Richard’s house, and we all set out in
Ken’s car. We arrived in Hermanus at about 16h00, and found the bistro, “Feathers”, where the Hermanus
Musical Society had arranged for us to meet. Caroline of “Feathers” had, at the request of the Musical
Society, laid on a huge tea, with scones, sandwiches and cake for us all. Carload by carload, the gang
arrived, and after a little warm-up, we left for the venue, which was the Bouchard Finlayson wine cellar on
the Hemel en Aarde road. Bouchard Finlayson is a working wine cellar, with a cement floor, a strong smell of
fermenting wine, and the walls lined with rows of wooden barrels. The Musical Society had arranged a
platform at one end, chairs in between the barrels (they could fit only eight chairs per row, so it was a long
narrow space), a very good quality upright piano to one side, and a lectern with hand-held mic for the
narrator – that’s me. There was gentle pink lighting on the stage, which made us all look extremely
glamorous, but it caused a problem: it was impossible to see our scores. Our intrepid Chair, Steve, then risked all sorts of things by climbing on top of a wine barrel and moving two of the downlighters along, to
improve the lighting on the stage. Then we discovered that they had sold more tickets than they had chairs,
and extra seats were being put in all sorts of unlikely places, eventually accommodating about 160 people.
Because of Lance and Yolanda’s sad absence (they had gone to Namibia to Lance’s father’s funeral), we had
to do a certain amount of dodging with the programme, but as Ian said, a crowd who had made it to Buxton
in 2005 in the middle of an airline strike, and managed to get an award, nogal, is not easily fazed by a few
little programme changes. Nevertheless, huge thanks go to Graham Boxall for filling in as Captain Corcoran
in Never Mind the Why and Wherefore trio from HMS Pinafore; Ken for singing Dick Dauntless in the
Ruddigore Madrigal; Niel for bravely and successfully tackling the dreaded Take a Pair of Sparkling Eyes;
and Cyndy for stepping in at the very last minute as Yum-Yum in Three Little Maids, when Michele, who had
been suffering with a scratchy throat, lost her voice totally and nudged Cyndy forward. Imagine my surprise
when I looked up from my score and saw a dark head where I was expecting to see a blonde one! Oh, yes,
and I almost forgot, I reached down into the bottom of my boots and sang Kate’s line in Climbing Over
Rocky Mountain, which Yolanda had been going to sing.
The audience was large and enthusiastic, and very responsive – it was a pleasure to perform for them. And
of course the more responsive they got, the more we played to them, so it really was a sparkling
performance. After our final “Hail Poetry”, they shouted for more, so we gave them the Cachucha, and were
rewarded by the sight of Nicola and Brian de Jager dancing at the back of the cellar. They eventually let us
go, and we were given drinks in the tasting room of the cellar, as well as two cases of Bouchard Finlayson
wines which we shared out. Those singers who were available then met at a restaurant which had been
recommended to us by Caroline of Feathers, where we had a light supper before leaving either for our
accommodation in Hermanus, or for the drive back to Cape Town.

A wonderful end to our 2011 series of concerts.

We will be working up an entirely new programme for next year, and we already have two bookings for
early 2012, so if you are interested in singing with our concert group, please feel free to contact me.

NEWS FROM SISTER SOCIETIES

15 & 16 April The Wonderful World of Operetta presented by Playbill Productions at the Masque.
Directed by Celia Musikanth, musical direction by Lorraine Rothenburg and choreography by Gladys
Bullock. Featuring soprano Liesl Hartje, tenor Matthew Overmeyer, Dermod Gloster, Margaret Hill and
Cherith Bain on violin, this production showcases popular music from operettas. Tickets: Evenings R65,
Matinee R55.

Godspell directed by Roché Haupt Buckle for Pinelands Players in the Artscape Arena. Starts 15th April.
Bookings at Computicket. Contact Tina Gough on 082 771 9644

Sympathy. Our sincere condolences to Lance Kotze on the passing of his father in Windhoek.

And that’s all for now. Take care everyone.

Ken

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Gaslight – July 2010

GASLIGHT

NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY

VOLUME 17, ISSUE 3 – JULY 2010

Greetings all!

Let’s begin this time with a warm welcome to all the new members of the Society who have joinedus though their involvement with ANNIE. We hope you will have a very happy and rewarding association with us and that it will continue way beyond ANNIE. You are part of a Society that has been in existence since 1947 and over the years has earned a reputation for excellence. We know you will work hard to further enhance that reputation. For your information, GASLIGHT is a periodicnewsletter that will keep you informed of the goings-on in the Society both on and off the stage.

At the drop of a Hat! (As seen by our Hon. Chair Audrey)

The Social event on Friday 18th June was much enjoyed by all who attended. Quite by chance the event coincided with the 2010 World Cup which was taking place at that time, much to our advantage, as many of the entertainers had taken leave from their engagements in the West End to visit the fairest Cape, so we had entertainment of the highest calibre! ( in some cases truly from the sublime to the ridiculous! – ed.) The participants gave it their best shot in order to impress the audience, who were most vociferous in their appreciation!

The hat quiz confirmed how little most of us know about who wore which hat in which Show.  The hats worn by all those present were indeed varied and spoke volumes about the wearers!

The food was good, the entertainment splendid, the company most enjoyable, the only disappointment being the relatively poor attendance. So where were you?

With Annie rehearsals under way my best wishes to all of you involved in the Show in any way.  Enjoy the hard work ahead because it will pay off as soon as “Annie” opens and the accolades start pouring in!

And speaking of Annie …

UPDATE

Feel it… it is here! No, not the World Cup… been there, done that. In case you’ve been on another planet we’re talking ‘ANNIE’ folks!

The ‘ANNIE’ vibe kicked off on 16th May in true Yankee style, complete with American flags, food, costumes, jumping castle and barbecue (that’s a braai to you). The cast and crew, along with their nearest and dearest got together in true G & S style. The day was superbly planned and executed by Jennifer Moss, with special thanks to Laura Bosman for supplying a super venue (Milnerton High School) for the event. We were treated to a preview of the set and plotting of the scenes on the big screen, which succeeded in getting everyone excited for the spectacular show that we are mounting. The food and drinks flowed as we all got to know each other, and prizes were awarded for the best costumes. If you haven’t already done so, then check out the photos of the event on the ‘ANNIE’ FaceBook Page. If you are not already on FaceBook then I suggest you sign up now, otherwise you will miss out on the

latest ‘ANNIE’ news and photos.

Well, the get-together succeeded in getting us all revved up and raring to go … but due to a small global event that was playing out, we had to wait for rehearsals to start on the 12th July!

The day finally arrived, and the Pinelands church was alive and buzzing with an excited cast and crew of around 86 performers all eager to get started. On entering the hall we were once again amazed at the work and organisation that had already been done ready for us… chairs labelled in cast order, librettos and music copied and bound, teas at the ready! The main role players introduced themselves to us, along with their words of advice and caution, but the person that drew the most awe and respect from the cast seemed to be, not the director, but the animal trainer! I’m sure it must take more to train seventy adults and children than one dog!!! By the end of the first evening we had read through the story and shared some laughs and friendship, only to return the next night to start on the real work.

Tuesday night saw the chorus come together under the excellent tutelage of Alastair Cockburn, ably supported by the long-suffering Helen Broekmann (suffering us, not Alastair!) on piano. Voices were sorted into groups, harmonies put together, and by the end of the night we all went home happy. It is such a privilege for us to have the opportunity to learn from the best in the business, at no charge, and if the start that we have made is anything to go by … it’s going to be a stunning show.

Written by “Mrs. Pugh” – Warbucks’s cook! (Alias Lynn Moss / Alias Hebe / Alias – the Queen!)

FROM OUR SISTER SOCIETIES

Preeoudly Seeouff Effriken directed by David Bolton for Pinelands Players at the Pinelands Community Hall from 22-31 July. 19:00 for 19:30. Tickets R90, which includes a Potjie supper and Dessert. Bookings on bgough@telkomsa.net or phone Tina on 0729231035. Some nights are already sold out, so move quickly.

Dance me a Song 29 -31 July.

Presented by the Waterfront Theatre Company at the Masque. An excellent, diverse and eclectic mix of song and dance featuring over 300 costumes and promising to deliver entertainment for everyone with Broadway, Classical

Ballet, Contemporary Dance, Hip Hop, Disney and Cabaret. Tickets all shows R60/R50.

Lady Windermere’s Fan by Oscar Wilde. 13 -21 August.

Directed by Brenda Gray for Claremont Dramatic Society. Lady Windermere, about to celebrate her 21st birthday, hears a piece of gossip that has a ripple effect on her life. Her hasty decisions and actions lead to unexpected twists and turns in the plot. Written by one of the finest exponents of social

comedy in the English language

Lance has been hard at work (thanks Lance) creating a completely new – and functional – website for the Society. Please check it out at http://www.gilbertandsullivan.co.za

SYMPATHY

Long-time member Alison King, involved in many of our shows with sets, props and as a cast member, lost her father recently. Our love and sympathy to you Ali, as well as to the family.

Last word – goes to Lorna …

I know that there are some people in the Society who don’t know too much about G&S, but here is something for those who do know.

Question: How many love-sick maidens does it take to change a light bulb?

Answer: Twenty. One to change the light bulb, and 19 to sing “Turn, oh turn, in this direction”.

(She did have the grace to say ‘Sorry’!)

Till next time …

Ken

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Celebrations at the G&S Valentine’s Day Concert

Come and celebrate Helen Houghton’s 80th birthday at the “G&S Valentine’s Day Concert” at the Masque Theatre, Muizenberg on Sunday, 14 February @ 15:00

 We would like as many G&S people who have connections with Helen to be at the concert. Simon is arranging to keep the cash bar open after the show, and Gwen is baking a large cake!!

To ensure the cake is big enough, please let Lance know if you will be at the party by 11 February.  You can also contact him for tickets at R50 each.  Ensure you get your money to him by no later than Friday, 6 February!!!

lance.kotze@gmail.com / 082 770 778 

Alternatively, buy tickets from the Masque @ R60.

!!  If you are unable to be at the concert, you are most welcome to come to the Masque at around 17h00 and join the party  !!

See you at Helen’s 80th!!

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Gaslight – January/February 2010

GASLIGHT

NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT & SULLIVAN SOCIETY

VOLUME 17 – ISSUE 1 – JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2010 EDITION

Hi Folks!

On behalf of the Chair and Committee a happy new year!

I have been enjoying “The Palace Peeper”, the journal of the New York G&S Society. Among the plenitude of articles, a production of “HMS Pinafore: Her Majesty’s Starship”, with “We sail the Milky Way and our saucer ship ’s a beauty!” It is set in the future, as imagined in films and TV from 30 or 40 years ago. The cast were without pointy ears or space suits – mercifully! Sir Joseph Porter KCB (I prefer Riaan Hunter’s KFC!) is described as the Ruler of The Galaxee. Dick Deadeye is portrayed as a three-cornered alien mutant –oo, er!

Another item is the NYGASP’s foray into Wikipedia wherein may be found a fount of knowledge and information, thanks to Sam Silvers. Be sure to check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WP:G&S.

We had a wonderful time on 16 December at the 2009 Opskop!! Thank you to everybody who joined us for the social prior to Pinelands Players’ evening performance of “A Christmas Carol – A Pantomime”. We had such positive feedback on this ‘new’ way of spending 16 December together, that it makes one wonder what the 2010 EXCO will have up their sleeves for this year’s gathering… 😉

ANNIE. . . OUR 2010 G&S PRODUCTION!

!! AUDITION NOTICE !!

You are invited to audition for the G&S 2010 musical production of “Annie”

Director:- Kyla Thorburn

Musical Director:- Alastair Cockburn

Choreographer:- Roxy Levy

Set Design:- Dicky Longhurst

Production dates: – 12th November to 5th December 2010

At the Artscape Opera House

The company will include +/- 80 performers, including 2 casts of children (11 girls in each cast – including Annie), 6 Principals & Supporting roles, 2 Cameo roles, 14 Dancers and a Chorus of +/- 24. This includes a supporting (performing) cast for all the Principal & Supporting roles.

Auditions are to be held on:-

Sunday 21st February:- Chorus (Male & Female) from the ages of 18 to 60

Saturday 27th February:- Children (Girls only) from the ages of 8 to 15.

Sunday 28th February:- Principals / Supporting roles / Cameo’s.

Saturday 6th March:- Call-Backs

Sunday 7th March:- Dancers (Male & Female) from the ages of 18 to 30.

All auditions will be held at Springfield Convent School, Wynberg, in the Centenary Hall.

To book an audition slot, please contact:-

CHILDREN (Girls ages 8 to 15 years)

Benita Faiers on benitaf@vodamail.co.za or benitaf@genelouw.co.za, or 0791568384

ADULTS

Jennifer Moss on anniemail2010@gmail.com, or 0745589283

Please ask Benita or Jennifer to send you the list with regard to the specifications of roles available and what to prepare.  All song are from the musical “Annie”.   A pianist will be available for accompaniment. If you wish to bring your own pianist, you are most welcome. You may use a backing track as long as there is no vocal accompaniment in the backing track.   A CD/tape deck will be available or you may bring your own.

Auditionees will either be told at their first auditions or via e-mail/telephone if they will be required to attend call-back auditions and what to specifically prepare for these auditions.

You are free to audition for more than one role. If we consider you have the potential to fill another role we may ask you to prepare an additional song from the show as part of the call-back audition. This does not mean you are eliminated from the prime role you are auditioning for.

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

There are a lot of opportunities for acting roles, superb singing roles both in principal and supporting roles and a lot of lovely little acting cameo roles plus a large chorus of many characters. You will certainly be busy and will never be bored. Hope to see you at auditions!”

Kyla & The Auditioning Panel

BUT WHERE DID IT ALL START?

As we will be in the company of this famous little girl for quite some time, I thought it might be interesting to find out a little more about her… Isn’t the internet just a wonderful resource?!

In 1924, Harold Gray created Little Orphan Annie for the Chicago Tribune. Gray’s original concept starred a boy named, Otto. (That’s right, Little Orphan Otto!) Thankfully, there were many strips featuring boys and none about a girl, so Gray changed the protagonist’s gender and name.

Comic strips in the 20’s were very different from today’s strips.  Dailies were printed in a much larger format and often only one Sunday strip appeared on a newspaper page.

Adventure strips ran stories for many months and sometimes for more than a year!

Little Orphan Annie was different; she met do-gooders, crooked politicians, gangsters, and fought the Nazis. The strip had elements of the supernatural. There were ghosts, leprechauns, and Mr. Am, who has lived for “millions of years.” After months of fending for herself, travelling through the small towns of America, “Daddy” showed up for an adventure before disappearing again to allow Annie some adventures on her own.

Harold Gray died in 1968 and never saw his little orphan girl’s big moment when “Annie,” had its world premiere on August 10, 1976 at the Goodspeed Opera the Musical House in East Haddam, Connecticut. The original Broadway production opened at the Alvin Theatre on April 21, 1977.

This success story was followed by, you guessed it… the film.

This Columbia Pictures’ movie was released in 1982 and starred amongst others Aileen Quinn as Annie, Carol Burnett as Ms Hannigan and Albert Finney as Mr. Warbucks.

CATA Awards Evening – 22 March 2010

Congratulations to all our G&S Members who are nominated for the 2010 CATA’s! We are very, very proud of you. The Awards Evening will take place on Monday, 22 March at 7:30 for 8:00pm. Dress is smart, but not formal. Champagne will be served upon arrival and a finger supper will follow the proceedings. The prizes will be presented by Paul Griffiths, well known professional actor and director.

Bookings are open and we therefore encourage all nominees and members to book early to ensure your seat. There is no cost to attend, but due to limited space you must book in advance. Remember to mention whether you are a nominee or not!

Please contact Hayley Fargher to make your bookings on 021-788 6999. She is available for booking on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10.00am till 1.00pm.

Here is a list of the Categories and respective Nominees:

BEST PLAY, BEST MUSICAL, MOST ADVENTUROUS PRODUCTION, BEST DIRECTOR OF A PLAY, BEST DIRECTOR OF A MUSICAL:

Teddy Davies – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Other nominees: Birga Thomas – Hello, Goodbye (MADS) ; Marlisa Doubell – Private Lives

(Milnerton) ; Barrie Howard – Time of my life (Constantia) ; Sue Bolton – Breath of Life

(CDS) ; Graham Boxall – Isn’t it romantic (CDS) ; Kyla Thorburn – A Christmas Carol (Pinelands)

BEST CHOREOGRAPHER OF A MUSICAL:

Kyla Thorburn – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

The other nominee: Kim Harris-Dalla – A Christmas Carol (Pinelands)

BEST ACTOR IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL:

Riaan Hunter – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Other nominees: Wesley Figaji – Hello, Goodbye (MADS) ; Trevor Joubert – Private Lives (Milnerton) ; Dennis Benneyworth – Time of my life (Constantia) ; Shaun Browne – A Christmas Carol (Pinelands)

BEST ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL:

Julie Harris – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Sian Atterbury-le Roux – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Other nominees: Yvonne Copley – Breath of Life (CDS) ; Suzy Gehr – Hello, Goodbye (MADS) ; Tamryn Spiers – Private Lives (Milnerton) ; Jane Cohen – Time of my life (Constantia) ; Carey Wallace – Haunting of Hill House (FHDS) ; Jo Darby – Abigail’s party (Constantia)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL:

David Bolton – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

John Carne – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Other nominees: Theo Swartz – A lesson from aloes (HHDS) ; Alastair Duff – No sex please, we’re British (FHDS) ; Gordon Molloy – Trap for a lonely man (Milnerton) ; Scott Cooper – Appointment with death (MADS) ; Michael Harris – A Christmas carol (Pinelands)

ARTISTIC CONTRIBUTION:

Gary Kok – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Heather Earp-Jones – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Riaan Hunter – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Sian Atterbury-le Roux & Ferdi Oosthuizen – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Kim Harris-Dalla, Victoria Harris, Jennifer Moss, Christine Thonissen – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

Other nominees: Margaret Mortelmans – Private lives (Milnerton) ; Phoebe Snayer – Rodgers and Hart, a celebration (Milnerton) ; Glenda Carmichael – A Christmas Carol (Pinelands) ;

Jennifer Moss – A Christmas Carol (Pinelands) ; Laura Bosman and Graham Stabler – A Christmas Carol (Pinelands)

BEST CAMEO PERFORMANCE:

Lynn Moss – HMS Pinafore (G & S)

The other nominee: Jane Philbrick – Haunting of Hill House (FHDS)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A PLAY OR MUSICAL:Denise Dubber – Time of my life (Constantia) ; Trish Sutton – Time of my life (Constantia) ; Michele Belknap – Isn’t it romantic (CDS) ; Victoria Harris – Return from Oz (CDS) ; Laura Bosman – A Christmas carol (Pinelands) ; Jennifer Moss – A Christmas carol (Pinelands)

MOST PROMISING NEWCOMER:Kevin Smith – Play Misty for me (HHDS) ; Angela Lee-Wright – Haunting of Hill House (FHDS) ; Thomas Agates – Spring and port wine (HHDS) ; Curtis Dunn – Abigail’s party (Constantia)

BEST SET:Jane Philbrick and Margi Blewett – No sex please, we’re British (FHDS) ; Anne Coetzee – Play Misty for me (HHDS) ; Debbie Bentley-Buckle and Barrie Howard – Time of my life (Constantia) ; Finn McCormick – Trap for a lonely man (Milnerton) ; Debbie Bentley-Buckle and Barrie Howard – Abigail’s party (Constantia) ; Richard Whittaker – A Christmas carol (Pinelands)

TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE:Roland Sweet – Special occasions (Milnerton) ; John Blewett – Time of my life (Constantia) ; Gary Fargher – Isn’t it romantic (CDS) ; Andrew Ward-Cox – Trap for a lonely man (Milnerton) ; Gary Fargher – Haunting of Hill House (FHDS) ; Dylan Ford – Haunting of Hill House (FHDS) ; Grant Faiers – A Christmas carol (Pinelands) ; Kyla Thorburn – A Christmas carol (Pinelands)

A FUN THING TO DO ON VALENTINES DAY!!

Attend the G&S Concert at the Masque Theatre

Ten years ago, Lorna Hansen was asked to give a lecture on the work of Gilbert and Sullivan to the Fine and Decorative Arts Society. She thought that an unillustrated lecture on the works of our boys would be deadly dull, so she opted to round up a group of people from the Society, who illustrated the talk with different numbers from each of the operas in the canon. This group has, with some additions and alterations, been performing around Cape Town and surrounds since then.

Lorna says:” At the end of last year, we were asked if we would give
a Valentine’s Day Concert at the Masque on Sunday 14 February, at 15h00. So we have chosen a whole lot of songs which have something to do with LOVE. We’ll be singing them (with Mike Nixon, who usually plays the trombone in our orchestra, conducting, and Helen Broekmann at the piano).”

If you are interested in having a fun afternoon, and supporting your Society at the same time, contact the booking office at the Masque on 021 7881898, and book.

R50-00 per seat for members of the Masque, R60-00 for non-members.

You can also get G&S Society prefs at R50-00 per ticket by sending the money, with your name and contact details to Lance, our Treasurer (lance@gilbertandsullivan.co.za), and he will ensure that your ticket(s) are either delivered to you, or left in an envelope with your name on at the box office on the day. Hope to see you there!

2010 AGM – 02 March

An official notice with more detail will be distributed to our members in due course, but be sure to pencil the date in your diaries so long!

2010 G&S MEMBERSHIP FEES

A reminder from our Membership Secretary, Michele Belknap:

Membership fees and categories are as follows:

Single: R80

Couple: R110

Student/Pensioner: R50

Patron: R600

If you prefer not to pay your subs at the AGM, you can send The Treasurer a cheque, or do an electronic transfer or do a direct deposit.

Cheques can be posted to:

The Treasurer

Gilbert and Sullivan Society

P O Box 23941,

Claremont

7735

Please put your name as reference!

If you are unsure whether you have paid or not, or if you have any queries, you are welcome to contact Lance Kotze, our Treasurer at lance@gilbertandsullivan.co.za or on 082 770 7782.

AN UDOUBTABLE FACT!

I’m off to the Masque Theatre to go and support our Membership Secretary, Michele, who will be in the Muizenberg Dramatic Society’s “Improbable Fiction” from Friday, 05 February until Saturday, 13 February!! This comedy is directed by Coleen van Staden.

To quote Michele: “It is quite zany and a good laugh!” To book, contact the Masque Theatre during office hours on 021 7881898.

Cheers

Adrian

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Gaslight – November 2009

GASLIGHT
NEWSLETTER OF THE CAPE TOWN GILBERT & SULLIVAN SOCIETY
VOLUME 16 – ISSUE 6 – SPECIAL NOVEMBER 2009 EDITION

Hi Folks!

INTER – SOCIETY QUIZ

The much anticipated Annual Inter-Society Theatre Quiz, hotly contested by erudite members of our various Dramatic Societies, is fast approaching.
If you are interested in entering a team or would like to form part of a team, you are most welcome to contact the Theatre Quiz Team Convener, yours truly, Adrian Kettle on adriankettle@telkomsa.net with your team names and numbers. I will need these names by 13 November.

REMINDER!!! “OPSKOP” AT THE THEATRE!!!

This year we are going to have the annual “Opskop” at the THEATRE!! Yes, you read quite right. And we would like as many of you to join us on the public holiday, 16 December, for the evening performance of Pinelands Players ‘A Christmas Carol’ A pantomime.

Script: Alistair Clinton
Diroetor: Kyla Thorburn
Musical Director: Bill Holland
Choreographer: Kim Harris-Dalla

Date: 22nd November 2009
Place: Masque Theatre, Muizenberg
Time: 6:30pm for 7:00pm
Snacks: Light Finger Snacks
Cost Per Person: R20.00

With no less than 23(!) current and past Gilbert and Sullivan members involved in this production, joining them on this traditional “Getting Together & Having A Great Time With G&S Friends” – Day just seems like a very good idea!!
Apart from the names mentioned above, other friends include Benita Faires (Stage Manger), David Bolton (Marketing), Clifford Graham & Shaun Holley (Technical Co-ordinators), Richard Whittaker (Set Designer & Construction). And that’s just the guys in the background!! The great cast includes some of the aforementioned people, as well as Shaun Brown (Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music, Annie Get Your Gun, The King & I) as Scrooge, Mike Harris (My Fair Lady) portraying the dual roles of Ghost of Xmas Present & Mr Daughty, Laura Bosman (The Sound of Music) as Sandra, Simon Sutton (G&S Life Member) as Mr Smithers.

Other friends include: Rudolph Mare, Martin Heinrich, Ronnie & Eve Carr, Greg Tinney, Jennifer Moss, Alex & Douglas Middlebrook, Lyle Wilson, Graham Stabler and Andrea Faires.

Sounds like a plan?!

Well, let us know as soon as possible (and by no later than 01 December!) if you would like to join the G&S Group for the 7:30pm show on Wednesday, 16 December. Ticket Prices: R80 per adult / R40 for children under the age of 12.
Instead of bringing your tjops and wors, just bring your wallet along! The G&S Society will provide snacks from 6pm and a cash bar will be available.

Contact Yolanda or Guilma if you have any questions or if you would like to join the group!
They will be able to provide you with banking details to deposit your ticket money and give out additional info you might require closer to the time. Yolanda’s contact details: 082 877 8766 / 021 555 1957 / yolanda@gilbertandsullivan.co.za. Guilma’s contact details: 084 589 1812
/ 021 555 1957 / guilma@gilbertandsullivan.co.za.

OTHER EVENTS YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN!

Return from Oz – Claremont Dramatic Society
While some G&S members and friends might be taking part in Pinelands Player’s “A Christmas Carol” others like Matthew Browne, Giselle Willows, Victoria Harris, David Campey and Chris King (all having found their way off the “HMS Pinafore” in grand style) are having fun with Claremont Dramatic Society’s “Return of Oz”!! And Morag Tisson is making her
debut as Stage Manager! Well done, Morag!

[This] is Claremont’s big end-of-year production – “Return
from Oz” written by and directed for Claremont by Yvonne Copley. Musical direction is by Roland Perold, and Choreography by Barrie Howard.

Ever wondered what happened to Dorothy when she clicked her red shoe heels together? This light-hearted story tracks Dorothy’s journey with her three friends as they travel back to Kansas. Full of those familiar songs from The Wizard of Oz that dovetail with popular songs, and great family entertainment.
We do hope you will join Dorothy and her friends, Scarecrow, Tinman and Lion on the yellow brick road as they “Return from Oz”.

Extracts courtesy of the Claremont Dramatic Society Newsletter “Claremont Chat”

20 November – 28 November @ The Masque Theatre (Bookings: 021 788 1898)
Thursday evenings and weekend matinees R60 (Theatre Club members R50); Children under 12 are R40 ; Other nights R70 (Theatre Club members R60)

RODGERS & HART – ‘A Celebration’– Milnerton Players

So now we know who’s involved with both “A Christmas Carol and “Return of Oz” but what are our friends at Milnerton Players up to?
Join Director, Sheila McCormick and Musical Director, Keith Benjamin for a rousing pastiche of almost 60 songs by the prolific song-writing team of Rodgers & Hart.
The first act sets the stage for romance while the second act is comprised of their more satiric gems with a brief narration highlighting the Rodgers & Hart story.
Featuring such standards as ‘Manhattan’, ‘Blue Moon’, ‘The Lady is a Tramp’ and ‘Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered’, this fast paced revue is a guaranteed evening of enjoyable musical entertainment.
The cast of seven singers includes: Phoebe Snayer (“King and I”), Evan Witten, Nicole Nefdt,Carl de Lange, Lisa Stilianou (or Lisa Wener as many might remember her from “Annie get your Gun”), Simon Speck (“Yeoman of the Guard, Mikado, Iolanthe”) and Julie du Plessis.
At the Milnerton Playhouse from 27 November to 12 December 2009
Ticket prices: R60 evenings and R50 Saturday matinees
Bookings: 021 557 3206 or 082 267 1061
E-mail: macdram@absamail.co.za

Whatever you might be planning for the Festive Season, may it be blessed! See you at the Opskop on the 16th!!!

Cheers

Adrian

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