Margit Meyer-Rödenbeck, a celebrated name in the South African theatre scene, returns with a new Afrikaans comedy production, titled, “Ouma is op pad” (Grandma is on her way).
After enchanting audiences at the Baxter Theatre in December 2023 with her with the award-winning children’s classic “Liewe Heksie Vang Vis”, the acting veteran is ready to bring more laughter and entertainment to the stage.
Based on the stories by the acclaimed writer, radio and television personality Verna Vels, the play was a massive hit. It won the prestigious Best Children’s Production Kanna Award at the 2023 KKNK Festival (Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees) in Oudtshoorn.
Meyer-Rödenbeck is no stranger to the theatre world. Her journey began as a drama student at the University of Stellenbosch in 1988. Two years later, she landed her first major role as Gretel in “Hansel and Gretel” at the Baxter Theatre.
She went onto earn her Honours and Masters degrees and over the years, Meyer-Rödenbeck has created and performed in various productions. This includes playing Dowwe Dolla, one of the nation’s most loved dumb blonds for more than two decades, a character who has become a household name.
Now, in “Ouma is op pad”, Meyer-Rödenbeck brings to life the formidable character of Ouma, a woman from Garies with a sharp tongue and a no-nonsense attitude. After retiring alongside Dowwe Dolla at the end of 2021, Ouma is back by popular demand.
Audiences will be eager to find out more about the feisty grandmother who has a few more things to say. Coming from the rugged Knersvlakte, a nature reserve in the Western Cape, the senior citizen isn’t one for mincing her words.
She’s buried two husbands – though her neighbours suspect the last one simply drifted off – and now that her granddaughter has moved to the city, Ouma finds herself navigating a world she doesn’t understand, with tact being the least of her concerns.
The production is directed and written by Jurgen Human. It also features Coenraad Rall on the piano.
Where: The Drama Factory in Somerset West.
When: Saturday, August 17 at 3pm and 7.30pm.
Cost: Tickets start from R200. They are available at the Drama Factory’s website (www.thedramafactory.co.za) or by contacting: 073 215 2290.
“A Streetcar Named Desire”
Following its sell-out success in the play “Hollywood”, the Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (Lamta) is thrilled to announce its latest production, “A Streetcar Named Desire”.
This timeless drama by American playwright and screenwriter Tennessee Williams, will be staged for 10 days in the Mother City.
Starring Emily Child, who has featured in productions such as “Dinner with the 42s”, “The Pervert Laura” and “The Maze”, the show also stars Lamta’s talented students. This includes Sarah Wolhuter, who takes on the role of Stella and Dylan Janse van Rensburg as Stanley.
The play tells the story of Blanche DuBois (Child), a fragile and neurotic woman who leaves her troubled past behind to live with her sister Stella and her brutish brother-in-law, Stanley, in New Orleans in America.
The intense drama explores themes of desire, mental illness, class conflict and the clash between old and new Southern values.
Directed by Professor Chris Weare, with set and costume design by Niall Griffin, the rendition of “A Streetcar Named Desire” is set to captivate audiences with its intense portrayal of 1940s New Orleans.
In recent years, it has been staged at several prominent Cape Town theatres, including the Baxter Theatre and the Artscape Theatre Centre.
These productions have garnered critical acclaim, with past performances winning accolades such as the Fleur du Cap Theatre Award for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress.
Where: Theatre on the Bay in Camps Bay.
When: From Wednesday, August 14, to August 24, at 7.30pm.
Cost: Tickets range from R180 to R220 and can be purchased from Webtickets.
“Yeomen of the Guard”
This play is a classic English romantic opera set in the Tower of London during the 16th century. Composed by William S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan, it is regarded as one of their most dramatic works as it features a compelling storyline and richly-developed characters.
The opera weaves together elements of intrigue, comedy and a poignant ending, making for a gripping plot.
The music is considered some of Sullivan’s most profound and beautiful pieces of work which enhances the emotional depth of the narrative.
Performed in English, the opera is accessible and easy to follow, allowing audiences to engage with the story. It is also been lauded for blending dramatic tension with lyrical beauty.
Where: The Opera House at the Artscape Theatre Centre in Foreshore.
When: Friday, August 16, and Saturday, August 17, at 7.30pm.
Cost: Tickets start from R225 and are available at Webtickets.