Be serenaded and intrigued: dive into Joburg's must-see new theatre shows

As we look forward to another public holiday at the start of May, let’s look at the theatre offerings being ushered in. 

SWINGIN’ LAS VEGAS

For theatregoers who’ve attended past shows of a similar ilk and were serenaded to their heart's delight, this is a popular drawcard.

Once again, familiar names like Craig Urbani, Nadine, Timothy Moloi and Harry Sideropoulos will be belting out the hits, backed by the 18-piece Johannesburg Big Band led by Adam Howard. 

Attendees can expect an exceptional mix of tracks throughout several eras, from classic songs to modern hits. As the title suggests, it lives up to the showmanship of a Las Vegas show. 

The cast had a few things to say about the limited run of eight performances below:

On the song he is looking forward to performing the most, Urbani said, “The set list is so incredible. It's hard to choose. Definitely, ‘Luck Be A Lady!’ I've always loved ‘Guys and Dolls’. And ‘Shallow’ with Nadine is going to be a highlight for sure. The song is so emotive and beautiful.”

He added: “And, of course, whatever I do with Harry is going to be full of laughs and mischief. What can I say? I'm just a gigolo. Last year, lots of people commented on my dance moves. I didn't even realise I was dancing so much. It's just how I perform. This year, the moves will be back!”

Nadine added: “I'm so excited to be a part of this show.  It is the epitome of glam, glitter, excitement, musicality and great songs. One of the songs I am most excited about is’ Unforgettable’, which is the duet I will be doing with the amazing Timothy Moloi.

“The audience can expect beautiful music, great song arrangements, and a very excited cast. There will be romantic songs, dramatic performances and laughter as well!”

Moloi weighed in with his sentiments. 

He said, “In a show where every song is a hit, it’s very difficult to choose just one song. But I’m really looking forward to one of my favourite standards, ‘Sway’, which I’ll be singing with Nadine, Craig, Harry and the Johannesburg Big Band. And this song really showcases the band in a great way.”

“Audiences can expect to be taken on a musical ride through time, with an interesting, exciting and diverse variety of songs that have formed the soundtrack to our lives. Looking forward to taking these evergreen standards, and giving them our own flavour.”

Last but not least, Sideropoulos added: “I’ve got some seriously hot numbers lined up, and, of course, more sequins – because who doesn’t need more jackets covered in sparkles?

“The show features some of the best swing hits, from ‘Luck Be a Lady’ and ‘Lady is a Tramp’, but we’re flipping things around with big band swing versions of Celine Dion, James Brown, Lady Gaga, Elton John and Oasis. It’s going to be epic.”

Where: The Teatro, Montecasino.

When: From May 16 to 25.

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S BLACK COFFEE

If you enjoy whodunits, this drama is worth checking out, more so, with Alan Committie slipping into the skin of Hercule Poirot. 

Directed by Alan Swerdlow, Ashley Dowds joins Committie as Hastings. 

The supporting cast includes Mike Huff, Peter Terry, Brett Kruger, Dianna Simpson, Jackie Lulu and Schoeman Smit. 

Where: Main Stage at the Pieter Toerien Theatre at Montecasino.

When: From May 1 until June 8.