Artscape is hosting a series of youth-centred productions in celebration of Youth Month.
Oklahoma the Musical, given a new twist by Waterfront Theatre School, is on stage until Saturday June 17. Written by composer Richard Rogers and lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II, the production is celebrating its 80th anniversary. Set in Western Indian Territory just after the turn of the 20th century, the spirited rivalry between local farmers and cowboys provide the backdrop to the central love story.
Young ballet stars between the ages of 9 and 22 who competed in the South African International Ballet Competition (SAIBC) since its inception in 2008 will be showcased in a photographic exhibition that will also pay posthumous tribute to the illustrious well-known ballet-focused photographer Pat Bromilow-Downing.
The SAIBC takes place the following month from Sunday July 23 to Wednesday July 26, showcasing young ballet talent from across the world.
Artscape’s annual flagship project, the Youth Jazz Series specifically celebrating Youth Day, takes place this weekend. Young musicians, including those acquiring jazz skills by ear, were auditioned to be part of the programme for the 2023 edition. The project includes masterclass programme’s where the young musicians will learn from those experienced in the industry. School jazz bands will perform on Youth Day, Friday June 16, and the young aspiring jazz soloists will get to showcase their talent on Saturday June 17.
From Tuesday June 20 to Sunday June 25, Artscape will join hands with Hartzenberg Films to present Die Lig is Blou, an on-stage drama featuring Crystal Donna Roberts, Lisa-Maree Bruiners and Chester Miggels. The production depicts two friends, Samantha and Michael, playing a supernatural game that resurrects the ghost of a murdered family member, Claudine, who holds a secret about one of them.
Cape Town’s Most Wanted, a hip-hop dance show, put together with top Cape Town crews aimed at creating a positive platform for crews dancing together in a non-competitive environment, is on stage from Thursday June 22 to Saturday June 24.
Youth Month festivities wrap up with Dancing Against All Odds from Wednesday June 28 to Saturday July 1. The production is a collective of dance studios, schools and training programmes coming together in celebration of the universal language of dance.
To book, call Artscape Dial-a-seat on 021 421 7695 or visit www.artscape.co.za for more information.
