Storytelling, Shakespeare, Song and TheatreSports to Bring February to a Close at the Masque Theatre

A varied line-up of entertainment is scheduled for the Masque Theatre to bring February to a close. From storytelling to theatresports through music shows to the musical language of the Bard, the Masque Theatre stage has something for everyone as this summer season draws to a close.

THE LITTLE KAROO, which will be performed on 19 and 26 February, is a collection of deeply felt and beautifully told English short stories by one of South Africa's most well-loved writers, Pauline Smith. Set in the splendidly stark valleys of the Oudtshoorn region, the stories depict the trials and romances of the poor Afrikaner "bywoners" in the late nineteenth century. This unique presentation, a reading of four stories over the two Sunday evenings at 20:00, sees Jenny Brandt - a regular actor and director at The Masque - gently lure the audience into a past, forgotten world by the light of candles under the direction of well-loved, award-winning director, Celia Musikanth. Tickets cost R50 per person and typically South African treats will be available.

Designed to appeal to both younger and more mature audiences, MACBETH is being staged by the Fabrik Theatre Company from 20 - 22 February. The classic tale of a good man transformed by his weaknesses and ambition is framed using controversial but relevant parallels with modern horrors. Witchcraft, for instance, is equated with a modern equivalent of drug and substance abuse. The battle between good and evil becomes characterised by the contemporary struggle between fascism and anarchy, democracy and autocracy and punk and technology. The cast is led by Ian Gareth Hadfield playing Macbeth with Anel Skye as the manipulative Lady Macbeth. The three witches become super powers who control and manipulate the action, leading Macbeth to his demise, and are played by Olivia Hinckley, Yanga Ndzulwana and Damien Kurt Rule. Rounding out the cast are the talented Takalani Muthige and Regina Malan who play multiple roles, including Banquo and Duncan. Tickets cost R70-R100, with the show carrying a warning for sensitive viewers who may be disturbed by swearing and abusive alcohol and drug-taking scenes.

For one night only, on 23 February at 20:00, Storm Produktionz will present DARK SIDE OF THE MOON, a tribute to Pink Floyd. Taking centre stage in the production is multi-instrumentalist adult contemporary singer, songwriter, recording artist and producer, Mel Botes, whose brilliance as a guitarist showed no limits in CRAZY DIAMOND, sweeping music lovers off their feet. Botes and some of South Africa's top musicians cover the full DARK SIDE OF THE MOON album in first half and most of Pink Floyd's hit songs in the second half. Botes's genial talent defies description: it must be experienced! Tickets cost R160.

Having returned to the southern suburbs and the Masque Theatre with TheatreSports last year, Improguise is back again with this special and most loved of its improv formats. The ImproGuise team has a very special relationship with the people of the peninsula, with years of performing in venues from Kalk Bay to Muizenberg. Now, after a short but popular run in November, the team will play two nights of TheatreSports on 24 and 25 February at 19:30. Audiences will be able to see original, hilarious and magical short form improv, with two teams competing against each other and playing out scenes based on audience suggestions. There is no script, no rehearsal and the actors must make up stuff on the spot. The format, similar to WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY? is fast paced, hilarious and different every night. Tickets cost R90 and the show is suitable for the whole family.

Audiences can book tickets for any of these shows by visiting the Masque Theatre website, emailing the Masque Theatre booking service or calling 021 788 1898. Advance booking is recommended.

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