WELL-KNOWN theatre all-rounder Themi Venturas who died last week will be honoured at a gathering to celebrate his life at the Playhouse Opera on Tuesday, 26 September at 6pm. He was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
The celebration will be in the form of a montage of performances, memories and tributes featuring many of his colleagues and friends. Colleagues, supporters, family and friends are invited to join in to remember the life and work of the man who became a Durban theatre legend.
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The term Curtain Up has a myriad of theatre references based on the moment when the front curtain is raised and the show begins. In this instance the organisers are referencing the first show Venturas staged for the Young Performers Project in 2001. They want to remember the past and acknowledge that it is not the end of an era, but that his influence will continue well into the future through his work and legacy, and through all the lives he has touched.
There will be a ‘bring and share’ as those in attendance will fellowship after the celebration in the Playhouse foyer. The Playhouse bar will be open.
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The organisers invite all guests and participants to bring along a single stone or pebble which will be fashioned into a stone memorial to honour Themi at a place of personal significance to him.
Guests are welcome to write a message or tribute on the stone if they wish to do so.
Entry to the show is free and everyone is welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, there will be a donation box to support the work of the Highway Hospice.
