There’s captivating music and even a Pulitzer Prize-nominee for the June programme at The Drama Factory in Strand.
“Love Letters, starring two of our favourites, David Muller and Suzie Gehr, is a wonderful, funny and moving play which was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize,” said Sue Diepeveen, founder of The Drama Factory. “Directed by Celia Musikanth, it’s an enchanting tale of two people who share letters over 50 years.
“Our music extravaganza this month includes Guitar Heroes with Mel Botes, celebrating the music of iconic guitar heroes such as Carlos Santana, Eric Clapton, JJ Cale, Gary Moore, Mark Knopfler, Jimi Hendrix and many more! Also don’t miss Franky Jones’ beautiful tribute to legendary singer Edith Piaf in Edith Piaf, The Untold Story. We’ve also got a range of other incredible music and even an innovative event to find out about other people, with ASK.”
Guitar Heroes with Mel Botes: Friday 31 May at 19:30
Get ready for a six-string extravaganza with acclaimed musician Mel Botes’ electrifying new show. After captivating audiences for over 30 years with critically acclaimed tributes Crazy Diamond – Pink Floyd and Sultans of Swing – Dire Straits, Botes brings his unparalleled talent to a celebration of the guitar greats who have inspired him.
But Botes isn’t just paying homage. He seamlessly blends these classics with his own original work, creating a unique concert experience. Joined by a team of master musicians, this show also gives him the opportunity to showcase some of his original work together with that of a selection of the most successful rock guitarists of all time such as Carlos Santana, Eric Clapton, JJ Cale, David Gilmour, Gary Moore, Mark Knopfler, Jimi Hendrix, George Harrison, Chris Rea, BB King and many more.
Witness the magic unfold as Botes and top-notch musicians, Simon Orange of The Blues Broers’ fame on keyboard, and Francois Kruger of Springbok Nude Girls fame on drums, channels the spirit of legendary guitarists.
Tickets cost R200 and R180.
Love Letters: Saturday 1 June (15:00) and Sunday 2 June (16:00)
Love Letters by AR Gurney is a beautiful play, which is also nostalgic, funny and moving. It was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and has been performed on Broadway and West End with an array of brilliant actors playing Andy and Melissa, a man and a woman who write letters to each other over years. The text is wonderfully written by Gurney; audiences are riveted by their first letters written at puberty spanning over 50 years of communication. The award-winning company comprises seasoned actors David Muller and Suzie Gehr with direction by perspicacious Celia Musikanth.
Ticket prices range from R150 to R180.
ASK – A Stranger Kind: Saturday 8 June at 11:00
What questions would you have for a brain-tumour survivor, someone living with bipolar, a person who was adopted, someone on the autism spectrum, a motorbike enthusiast or a third culture kid if you could really ask them anything in a one-on-one conversation?
On arrival guests will find a list of the volunteers’ topics available for the day. Choose something that sparks your curiosity and sit down for a one-on-one conversation where you can hear their story and ask them anything about it. Not sure what to ask? There will be conversation starters available to take into your conversation.
A pop-up, engaging format where the public is invited to talk to strangers and be curious. It is a great way to meet others, learn something new and connect with people.
Entrance is free and no booking is required.
Edith Piaf, The Untold Story: Sunday 9 June at 16:00
Guelph Theatre Productions presents a moving tribute to the legendary singer Edith Piaf, as emotionally interpreted by Franky Jones, who will be accompanied by pianist Thinus Ries. The production captures moments and hearts as it takes audience members back to a time forgotten. Jones will perform 13 of Piaf’s most famous, including “No Regrets”, “La Vie En Rose”, “Milord”, “Under Paris Skies”, “Chante Moi”, “Autumn Leaves”, “If You Love Me” and “Heaven have Mercy”. The songs will be sung in English as Piaf performed them in America.
Tickets cost R160 and R180.
Neil Diamond Love Songs: Sunday 23 June at 16:00
Johan Liebenberg, who has become synonymous with Neil Diamond’s music, will take guests on a nostalgic journey to celebrate timeless love songs of the iconic musical maestro.
Having established himself as a standout performer in Diamond’s repertoire, Liebenberg breathes new life into beautiful, soul-stirring love songs with uncanny precision and artistry. These include hits like “Sweet Caroline”, “Love on The Rocks”, “Play Me”, “Hello Again”, “Let Me Take You in My Arms Again”, “September Morn”, “I’ve Been This Way Before”, “Girl, You’ll Be A Woman Soon”, “The Story of My Life”, “If You Know What I Mean”, “Lay Oh”, “I’m A Believer”, and many more. Respected and talented keyboardist, Kyle Petersen, will join Liebenberg on stage.
Tickets cost R180 and R200.
A harmonious blend of past & present: Thursday 30 June at 16:00
Backed by a formidable band of talented musicians, Manuel Losper, lead vocalist of The Rockettz New Generation band, takes centre stage to transport the audience on a nostalgic musical journey infused with a harmonious blend of old and new featuring popular medleys, timeless old school and R&B hits, pop, rock, ballads, reggae and South African classics, as well as a few current hits.
The Rockets was an enduring musical force in South African music from 1968 to the 2020. Following the untimely passing of the band’s frontman, Jerry Watt, Losper and the other band members who performed with the late lead guitarist, rebranded and emerged as The Rockettz New Generation.
Embarking on an exciting new chapter, the ensemble is ushering in a fresh era under the leadership of Losper, one of SA’s premier male vocalists.
Tickets cost R180 and R200.
- Bookings for all shows can be made at www.thedramafactory.co.za or by calling 073 215 2290.
