From Alan Committie’s laughathon to poignant dramas, don’t miss these Joburg stage productions
Theatregoers are spoilt for choice this week as “Dancing Queen: A Tribute to ABBA”, “My Fair Lady” and “The Jungle Book” open on different stages in Johannesburg.
Of course, each stage production has its allure - depending on what you are looking for - supported by a stellar cast, deft directing and incredible sets.
Meanwhile, there are several productions worth watching in the coming weeks.
“Comedy Gold”
I’ve had the pleasure of catching Alan Committie in several comedies - “Fast and (Reasonably) Furious” and “Love Factually” - over the years.
I will say this, he’s a riot on stage.
His knack for unpacking relatable scenarios through the lens of life in South Africa is always spot on.
He never misses a punchline and, of course, no two shows are the same as he is quick off the mark with his comebacks when engaging with the audience and feeding off their responses.
And he’s back to tickle the funnybone with “Comedy Gold”, which is currently playing at Theatre on the Bay in Cape Town before heading to Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre from February 19.
In this laughathon, Committie revisits the year that was from the elections to Airbnb’s and those red-flag deleted WhatsApp messages. He also taps into the hype around the Olympics and looks at dietitians as well.
True to form, expect a few flipcharts thrown into the mix.
Interestingly, “Comedy Gold” is Committie’s 27th stand-up show to date.
He said: “This year’s brand new comedy offering promises some silly surprises and variations on a theme. I attempt a triptych of flipchart mindmaps. Three flipcharts at once. A feat never attempted before by any sane person. It’s school stationery taken to a new level. No CNA, just RSA.”
The presser added: “The show is coached by Chris Weare, who may or may not be on a course of steroids but never for the reason you guessed.”
Committie added: “Jozi audiences are always a delight and I am already tweaking and refining the material so that I can get maximum laughs from them.”
Where: Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre.
When: Runs from February 19 to March 16, 7.30pm. Times differ on the weekend.
Cost: Ticket prices vary from R150 to R260 and can be purchased through Webtickets or the Box Office.
“‘n Begin”
This two-hander takes theatregoers into the month of love with Cintaine Schutte and Carel Nel, who viewers will recognise from “Gaia” and “Donkerbos”, at the helm.
Originally penned by British playwright David Eldridge, this production was translated into Afrikaans by Nico Scheepers.
It is directed by Tinarie van Wyk-Loots, who is no stranger to winning awards.
The play centres on Laura (Schutte) who isn’t shy in expressing her feelings for Daniel (Nel) at her house-warming party. Very “Nobody Wants This” vibe.
Meanwhile, he is grappling with deep insecurities, which puts a question mark on this interaction's progress.
The psychological unpacking of complex emotions is delicately handled.
Van Wyk-Loots commented: “Directing this play by David Elridge, who is one of the most talented playwrights of his times, is an incredible privilege. The chemistry between the cast is contagious and real, giving an authentic exploration of what modern relationships often look like.
“This production premiered at the Stellenbosch Woordfees to raving reviews, and Joburg audiences can expect a magical performance that offers an intimate look at the first fragile moments of risking it all for love.”
Meanwhile, Greg Homann, the artistic director at The Market Theatre Foundation, added: “We’re excited to stage this brilliant piece of contemporary playwriting, which the talented team behind it has now placed so well in a recognisable South African context.
“The raw and effortless connection shared by real-life partners, Cintaine Schutte and Carel Nel, makes for amazing chemistry and storytelling.
“As human beings, we have our ideas of love and relate to it in our own unique ways, and ‘’n Begin’ is that kind of production that invites us to evaluate how we negotiate love, with all our baggage in tow.”
Where: Barney Simon, Market Theatre.
When: January 30 to February 16, 7pm. Times differ on the weekend.
Cost: Ticket prices vary between R100 to R200 and can be purchased through Webtickets.
“The Suit”
A play that’s become synonymous with Sello Maake kaNcube playing the protagonist Philemon in Can Temba’s powerful classic tale.
The inimitable actor, who has a rich legacy in theatre and television, is a marvel to watch on stage.
Set in Sophiatown during the apartheid era’s Group Areas Act, the timeless tale explores the strained relationship between Philemon and his wife, Matilda.
After learning of her infidelity when her lover flees, leaving behind his suit, Philemon uses it as a way of atonement for his wife.
She has to treat the suit as a guest from that day forward.
This triggers powerful emotions as love, betrayal, revenge and borderline cruelty take root.
Directed by J Bobs Tshabalala, the play is produced by the Sello Maake kaNcube Foundation and Daphne Kuhn.
It also stars Tshireletso Nkoane, Job Kubatsi and Lebohang Motaung.
Where: Theatre on the Square.
When: February 3 - 16, 7.30pm.
Cost: Ticket prices vary between R180 and R200 and can be purchased through Webtickets or at the Box Office.