Award-winning Durban theatre-maker, Penny Youngleson, has created a new production with the students at Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Drama, Production and Performing Technology faculty.
“Memento Mori” will premiere at the Courtyard Theatre at DUT on Thursday, October 17, and will run until Saturday, October 19.
This production, based on a children’s book by Youngleson of the same name, promises to be a magical and sensory feast.
The set is designed by Nel van der Merwe with costumes and props by Anne and Penny Youngleson, together with the students.
The press statement read: “The story is home to an enchanting array of characters; elements of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ type whimsy combined with vintage story-book-inspired imaginative design set to beautiful music.”
In her new work, Penny tackles mortality.
Her production celebrates the wonder of life, the power of love and the joy of human connection, understanding that our time on earth is fleeting and should be enjoyed to its absolute fullest.
“‘Memento Mori’ is a useful tool for explaining death and illness to children as well as contemplation for adults to be reminded of their impermanence. Above all, it is a hopeful story that can be watched by anyone,” said Penny.
From meddling mushrooms and arguing hourglasses to dastardly apothecaries and flirtatious (and loquacious) purple-crested Loeries, this play will appeal to every member of the family, particularly those who are familiar with the flora and fauna of KwaZulu-Natal.
In the play, the character, Tempus Fugit (time flies) is a clockmaker, inventor and fixer of things.
He is kind and curious and everything he does brings joy to the people around him. His neighbour, EtVita Brevis (life is short) lives in the kaleidoscopic cottage next to his barrow, and while she is a little anxious, she is also Tempest’s best friend and biggest supporter.
Between them, there is a garden full of flowers and wildlife where their love for stories grows.
According to the statement: “One morning, Tempest goes to market and doesn’t come back. The birds that usually come to visit them start to ask questions like ‘Where is he?’, ‘Will he return and what will EtVita do without him?’ EtVita is overwhelmed and scared and doesn’t know where her precious friend has disappeared to.
“But two little house sparrows and a dandelion weed remind Tempest and EtVita that a change of season brings new meaning to the soil in which we all grow.”
Where: The DUT Courtyard Theatre in Musgrave.
When: Thursday, October 17, and Friday, October 18, at 6pm; and, Saturday, October 19, at 11am.
Cost: Tickets cost R50 per person and R20 for students and pensioners. They can be purchased at the door or from Bawinile at 031 373 2194 or bawinileM1@dut.ac.za.
“A Night of Musical Comedy Madness”
An electrifying evening of music and laughter, featuring comedy legends Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert, will be taking place on Wednesday, October 16.
Renowned for their razor-sharp wit and hilarious impressions, the husband and wife theatre duo are amped to bring their unique brand of show-stopping entertainment to their fans.
Don’t miss this evening of unbridled laughter and musical mayhem. Doors open at 6pm and the show will start at 7.30pm. There will also be drinks and food on sale from the Saders Kitchen.
Where: The Northwood Crusaders Sports Club.
When: Wednesday, October 16.
Cost: Tickets cost R180 and are available through Webtickets or at Pick n Pay Stores.
The Royal Opera – “Marriage of Figaro”
The Rhumbelow Theatre Umbilo is welcoming the 2024/25 Royal Opera House cinema season with the live stream of Mozart’s masterpiece, “The Marriage of Figaro”.
David McVicar returns to direct this witty yet profound tale of love, betrayal and forgiveness.
Ying Fang makes her long-anticipated Royal Opera debut as Susanna, alongside Jacquelyn Stucker as the Countess.
Conductor Julia Jones leads a largely international cast which includes Luca Micheletti as Figaro, Huw Montague Rendall as Count Almaviva, with Ginger Costa-Jackson also making her Royal Opera debut as Cherubino.
Where: The Rhumbelow Theatre.
When: Sunday, October 20, at 1pm.
Cost: Tickets cost R175 and can be purchased through Webtickets.