GEORGE NEWS - The arts and entertainment industry has probably suffered more under the Covid-19 pandemic than any other industry. Theatres and venues have closed worldwide, leaving those employed by the sector penniless and with no other source of income.
The George Society of Arts was no exception. Fortunately, under the new amended restrictions it can operate and put on shows again, although the allowed audience numbers have been severely reduced.
The resilient theatre staff, committee and volunteers have taken these challenges in their stride and have already had three shows this year, the evergreen and hilarious Dinner for Five, Four, Three, Two, One; a jazz show organized by one of our talented interns; and an Afrikaans kids show, Repelsteeltjie, which was extremely well attended.
As one director said, "Our theatre audiences have been amazing! They are supporting our shows, and giving generously to keep the theatre going!"
Magic in June
As a cherry on the top the society has just announced that at the end of June, it will stage a show called Back to Broadway, featuring hits from CATS, Aladdin, Little Shop of Horrors, Mary Poppins, Chicago, Phantom of the Opera, Gentlemen prefer Blondes, Moulin Rouge and Annie.
This show promises to be more than just your garden variety stand-and-sing show!
To quote the director, Wayne Strydom: "In this fundraiser-production, we celebrate past and present stars. We look to the future through the eyes of our children with scenes from previous and future shows. The show is filled with powerhouse actors and singers while we also introduce talented youngsters that are the future of our wonderful theatre."
Looking at the production team, it is impossible not to get excited! It is directed by Wayne Strydom, who brought us the flawless Little Shop of Horrors, and Heather Stead, director of the smash hit pantomimes Peter Pan and Robin Hood.
The show is written and produced by Carina Beukes, who staged Varieté Varieté, Khumba and the Disney tributes. Entwine this with a cast of familiar, well-loved performers and it is sure to be the hit the theatre deserves and to provide the entertainment audiences have come to expect.
The cast practising the song "Tomorrow" from the musical, Annie, led by Cuemi Tsai (10).
Ghost light
Interestingly, Back to Broadway features a "ghost light". Traditionally, ghost lights were used in every theatre to relieve pressure on the theatres' gas systems. Our interpretation is that the ghost light helps keep hope alive that performance venues will one day again open and flourish, providing entertainment to all. After all, we owe it to our children to keep the doors open and the lights burning!
So get your tickets for this family show today and help ensure that the doors of this wonderful theatre stays open - and if we have some sing-along, laugh-along, warm-and-fuzzy fun along the way, that will be an added bonus.
Ticket sales are already open. Buy your tickets through Computicket or at the theatre.
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