CAPE TOWN – The Masque Theatre is bringing festive magic to Cape Town families with its annual year-end production, The Princess and The Pea, running from Friday 12 December to Sunday 11 January with a fresh South African twist on the classic fairytale.
This year’s production aims to teach audiences that the recipe for a true hero includes: a pinch of bravery, a dash of honour, a swig of dry humour and a teaspoon of something special.
The theatre is located in the Muizenberg and is a registered non-profit organisation (NPO). It was established in 1959 by local attorney Bertie Stern. It’s a space for amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals to practise their craft and sharpen their acting chops. The theatre established a youth club to help young people aged between eight to 18, to learn theatre skills, build confidence, ignite creativity and encourage self-expression.
Show producer and Masque Programme Manager Faeron Wheeler emphasised the production’s distinctly South African musical identity, featuring songs from local artists alongside international favourites.
“For this year’s fairytale, we’re adding plenty of local flavour with music from Freshlyground, Jesse and Johnny Clegg and Shekhinah,” Wheeler explained.
The production follows Princess Anika as she learns the true meaning of just leadership, while young Eli discovers how to stand up for himself and Stefan realizes he’s more than just his appearance.
The chef character Pepper serves as a catalyst who “is going to teach everyone how to rip up the recipe of life”, bringing both humour and wisdom to the fairytale narrative.
Writer and director Savannah Steyn described her vision: “I wanted to cook up a hearty story that’s sweet, a little nutty, and full of flavour for the whole family.”
Tickets are valued at R160 for adults, pensioners: R130, under 18s: R130 and a family discount for four tickets for R500 (R125 each).
- Bookings can be made through Quicket.
