Looking at cultural differences
A brand new dance-musical will be on for the first time at the Courtyard Theatre at Durban University of Technology.
SAME Differences is a brand new stage dance-musical conceived, written and directed by Angela Harvey AKA Poppy Seed. It will be on for the first time at the Courtyard Theatre at Durban University of Technology from 12 to 18 September 2014. “Same Differences looks at cultural sameness as a means to explore diversity. It draws on the poise and elegance of classical ballet, and the strong passionate dance styles of Native American and South African culture. It appeals on different levels, physically, emotionally, and spiritually,” explained Harvey.
“The production portrays three different co-existing worlds featuring opposing tribes of the Outerlands who are literally Bright Yellow and Bright Red. There are archetype characters such as Captain Evil, Mr. Goodman, Red Queen, and Yellowman and Aama the Ancient High Priestess storyteller. Embedded into the story is a Romeo and Juliet-inspired theme. The different worlds are united by the common thread of disease, grief, and parental anxieties; and are challenged by greed, distrust and ambition.
“We examine ways to heal the constant struggle between good and evil and in so doing, we soar between the different worlds on the journey to our soul, our origin. We find the cure to all disease through a new dance; a new blood, and the awakening of universal unity where three co-existing worlds manage to embrace their differences,” she said.
Angela Harvey is a lecturer in Drama at DUT, and an executive committee member of PANSA (Performing Arts Network of SA) KZN. This is her first production with the DUT students.
Same Differences features a cast of 20 second and third year drama and performance studies students, as well as original songs written by Harvey.
Bookings may be made through the Departmental Secretary on (031) 3732194 or via email at lebohangs@dut.ac.za.
