Well-loved stories in theatre this month

The first main theatre production this year from National Children’s Theatre in Parktown is a fresh version of timeless Aesop’s Fables. The production running from 11 March, is devised by the cast and directed by Ryan Dittmann.

In this production, Aesop takes audiences on a trip through some of his most well-loved stories; The Fox and the Grapes (known for the origin of the idiom ‘sour grapes’); The Tortoise and the Hare in a hare-raising adventure of olympic proportions where the racers undertake one of the most famous contests of all time. Two other favourite stories are the contest of The North Wind and the Sun, and The Boy Who Cried Wolf, and then there’s also The Lion and the Mouse and The Ant and the Grasshopper.

The fables were originally handed down from person-to-person, both for entertainment purposes and as a means of relaying or teaching a moral or lesson. This latest offering expands on the educational side through the magical storytelling abilities of four professional actors who demonstrate that the theatre is a great place to see cautionary tales unfold in an interesting and memorable way.

Brimming with audience participation and character education, the production provides a fresh, warm and fun learning experience. The versatile cast transports children – and adults – into a fantasy world where humans can learn from the antics of animals. This is a celebration of young and old, ancient and new – a tribute to how fresh, bold and vibrant the classics remain today.

The fables spark conversations about morals, storytelling, and discussions about right and wrong in a risk-free way. Moira Katz, CEO of the National Children’s Theatre, said that the educational aspect of the fables is a great opportunity for parents and teachers to chat with children about the transfer of lessons from page to stage to real life. It continues the theatre’s aim to educate young audiences through the powers of entertainment and imagination while at the same time, encouraging children to question and think for themselves.

For more than 30 years, this multiple award-winning theatre has delighted audiences in cities and rural areas and from the age of three to matric; with a variety of educational and musical shows, including serious matric Shakespeare and Athol Fugard set works.

Sets, costumes, and lighting are by veteran National Children’s Theatre loyal heavyweights Stan Knight, Sarah Roberts and Jane Gosnell respectively, the music director is Christine Ludwig, and choreography by Tumelo Kope-Baloyi. The talented versatile cast includes Lillian Tshabalala, Ntsika Benya, Refilwe Mokgotlhoa and Daniela Caprin.

When: Until 26 April – 10:30 and 14:30 shows Monday to Saturday (public bookings during school holidays)

Where: National Children’s Theatre, 3 Junction Avenue, Parktown, Johannesburg

Cost: Tickets for chairs R130; tickets for cushions: R110; tickets for pensioners: R100 (length of the show is 1.15 hours with a short intermission)

Details: Claudy or Cindy on 011 484 1584/5; bookings@nctt.org.za

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