The NG Kerk Parys-Suid is the new home of The Little Theatre Company. Earlier this year, the church started hosting classical music concerts in cooperation with the Parys-resident and inter- nationally acclaimed opera singer, Stéfan Louw. Louw and one of his singing students, Corniël Calitz, recently founded The Little Theatre Company, the first opera company to have its roots in Parys.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has led to the devastation of many industries,” says Stefan, who is also the executive producer of The Little Theatre Company.
“The pandemic left businesses and indivi- duals fractured, leaving behind an economic wasteland. But amid the ashes of the fire, the soil is fertile for those who dare to plant. After each world crisis, there has been an explosion of economic and cultural growth. We want the performing arts and Parys to take part in it.” Rev. Fanie le Roux of the NG Kerk Parys-Suid believes the arts should be a fortress for those who need comfort, community and contemplation in times of crisis. “After all, it is in the arts that we find meaning, perspective and expression.”
“The opera community in South Africa has been through turmoil, even before the pandemic and ensuing lockdowns,” explains Corniël Calitz, the relationship and reputation manager of The Little Theatre Company. “As artists, we must create work for ourselves, now, more than ever. We are grateful to the church for the opportunity to use their premises and the support of Rev. Le Roux and his congregation.”
The Little Theatre Company was founded to rebuild the performing arts and develop an audience by creating and finding performance opportunities and connecting potential talent. “We also aim to draw attention to Parys, Potchefstroom and surrounding areas as a hub for culture and a mecca for classical arts.”
Louw has shown that there is an audience for classical music in the region. His Sunday afternoon house concerts became so popular that the last show in May 2021 sold out two weeks before the performance. In December 2020, he hosted nearly 200 residents for carols by candlelight in his garden.
In April, almost 80 residents attended the Easter concert at the church. The Little Theatre Company was born when Rev. Le Roux asked Stéfan to produce the two events at the church annually. “Parys is already home to many visual artists; the addition of classical performing arts will draw more tourists,” concludes Louw.
The Little Theatre Company plans to produce a concert every second month, keeping within the Covid-19 regulations. The next show is at the NG Church Parys-Suid on 9 October. Louw and Calitz also plan to produce an entire opera, with set and costumes, on the stage in the church hall in February 2022. For more information on the concerts phone Marisa on 064 963 5386.
