MyPE

Community Business Directory, Event Listings, News and Views from Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay

THEODOR HERZL ROCK MUSICAL AN ELTON JOHN WINNER

By

Star-crossed lovers, royal betrayal, swaggering heroes and Nubian maidens… Elton John and Tim Rice’s rocking adaptation captures all the glamour and tragic passion of Verdi’s AIDA, but with a contemporary kick that will have the audience on its feet when it’s delivered right here in Port Elizabeth by Theodor Herzl High School’s exceptionally talented young cast.

Set in intriguing Ancient Egypt, the musical weaves the classic tale of forbidden love between Aida, an enslaved Nubian princess, and Radames, an Egyptian soldier betrothed to the Pharaoh’s daughter. As their romance flourishes, and political upheavals rage, the lovers are forced to die or part forever.

Multi-award winning theatrical personality Robin Williams has been particularly shrewd in her choice of school show this year. As head of the Dramatic Arts Department at Theodor Herzl, she has tapped into some of the Bay’s best young musical and acting talent to assure a crowd-pleasing production.

Matric pupil Gino Lee, 17, is one such guarantee. Already a household name with his smooth, easy style of pop and play-listed songs of his own, this popular performer has been dubbed ‘Port Elizabeth’s very own Bruno Mars’. In the lead role of Radames, Gino is bold and brooding, his experienced voice confidently taking ownership of Sir Elton’s inspiring ballads.

Gorgeous female leads Bianca Bosch and Sarah Morton hold their own in the spotlight and are further supported by a cast crammed with exuberant ability. Their dancing has been skillfully choreographed by Vivienne von Memerty, with musical direction by Lynn Thomson and lighting design by stage manager Dave Limbert.

A delight in shimmering shades of gold, rich turquoise and jewel tones that evoke the allure of Ancient Egypt, the bespoke costumes were designed for the show by couturier Johan Wolmarans – and lovingly stitched well into the night by the dedicated staff of Theodor Herzl High.

The musical originated from a children’s storybook version of Verdi’s opera and was John and Rice’s second collaboration with Disney after their blockbuster, The Lion King. The award-winning score is an eclectic mix of modern reggae, Motown, gospel and all-out rock balladry that audiences will be humming long after the curtain has fallen.

“The more we have worked with Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida, the more we have fallen in love with this stirring tale, wonderful music and beautiful lyrics,” said Robin.

When it first opened on Broadway in 2000, this smash hit ran for more than four years and a total of 1 852 performances. This month in Walmer, there will be just eight. Don’t miss it!
PERFORMANCE NOTES:

  • WHEN: 7.30pm on March 4, March 5, March 6, March 7, March 9 and March 10; 2.30pm on March 8 and March 10.
  • WHERE: Theodor Herzl High School, 14th Avenue, Walmer, Port Elizabeth
  • ADMISSION: Tickets are R80 and bookings are available at the school. For more information, call 041-5814244 or visit www.theodorherzl.co.za.
Aida THeodor Herzel
Elton John and Tim Rice’s rocking adaptation captures all the glamour and tragic passion of Verdi’s AIDA

Author: MaryJane Botha
Website: http://www.theodorherzl.co.za

The following two tabs change content below.

Port Elizabethan

This author is a 'catch-all' for occasional articles and letters written to MyPE. The Author of each article can be found in the signature at the bottom of each individual article.