The 75-year-old Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West has re-opened with repeats of its sold out December production of Annie The Musical, which will be on until Saturday April 10.
Operating at 50% capacity with strict regulations in place, the theatre is glad to be “making up for lost time,” as director and chairperson Darryl Spijkers explains.
“The months of closure did not come without costs and losses, but we are so proud of our theatre community of volunteers that has jumped in,” he says.
“Last year we were able to stage five (smaller than usual) productions under lockdown laws, one of which explored our first ever digital production. This year we have opened with 14 banger shows of Annie, and the crowds are loving it.”
Jenna Tennet takes on the leading role of the little orphan Annie, who hopes to find her parents through a locket left with her on the doorsteps of the New York City Orphanage for girls.
The sozzled villain, Miss Hannigan, is played by local director and drama teacher, Gretel Schulze-le Roux, with and equal amount of sass and silly.
Other favourites include Paul Moolman as Daddy Warbucks, Dylan Janse van Rensburg as Rooster and Danielle Marias as Grace Farrel.
“While professional spaces are sadly unable to operate under limited capacities, the future of theatre lies with passionate unpaid volunteers prepared to work hard and work long in community spaces, classrooms and street corners.
“This needs to be done to keep theatre going until we can again enjoy what all love and get dressed for a big production we have waited years to see. Until then – support your local spaces and theatremakers” says Mr Spijkers.
Tickets are available At Computicket, and for more information, visit www.theplayhouse.org.za or call 082 678 9077.
