| Theatre is a kids' treat |
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| Written by Makoena Pabale | |
| Thursday, 26 June 2008 | |
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A group of young learners enjoyed a trip to the National Children's Theatre, and a performance of the well-loved fairytale, Cinderella. 
Cinderella with the Prime Minister played by Bradley Olivier
AN outing to see the play Cinderella, at the National Children's Theatre, was the treat a group of learners received for working hard and behaving well. Little grade ones and twos from the East Rand Christian Academy enjoyed themselves fully, taking an active part in a very interactive play. They even helped Cinderella finish her chores before her stepsisters returned. Cinderella is the well-loved fairytale of a young girl who is treated badly by her stepmother and stepsisters, who make her do all the housework while they enjoy a life of leisure. However, with the help of her fairy godmother she makes it the royal ball, where the prince falls in love with her. As in true fairytale fashion, after a few trials and tribulations they marry and live happily ever after. Kevin Feather, who has an impressive profile as an actor, impersonator, writer, director, musician, singer, agent and entrepreneur, is the show's musical director. 
Pulane Rampoana as Cinderella and Eldre Vermeulen as the Fairy Godmother
The cast includes Nomakhosazana Gebashe and Hein van Zyl as the ugly sisters, Kieran Harriman as the prince, Bradley Olivier as the prime minister, Pulane Rampoana as Cinderella and Eldre Vermeulen as the fairy godmother. Joyce Levinsohn, the artistic director at the National Children's Theatre, is confident that everyone will love the play. "I am absolutely thrilled to bring Cinderella back to the theatre because it has magic and a fairy godmother. I am certain that every one will love it, from young to old. It is done with such intelligence it is unbelievable." Young Cassandra Strydom, who is in grade one, learned an important lesson. "I liked the part when Cinderella danced with the prince. And I learned that my dreams can come true if I just believe." 
Pulane Rampoana playing Cinderella and the two ugly sisters played by Nomakhosazana Gebashe and Hein van Zyl
Alta Roos, a teacher at the school, explained why the school chose the outing. "We brought these kids here because we want them to be exposed to the world of theatre, and because practical arts and culture activities are good for them - and last but not least to reward them for good behaviour and hard work this term." The National Children's Theatre was established in 1990 with Joyce Levinsohn as its artistic director. East Rand Christian Academy learners visited on Thursday, 19 June, just before the school holidays. The National Children's Theatre is at 3 Junction Avenue in Parktown, and tickets for Cinderella are R55 for children and R65 for adults. Block bookings and specials are available for schools, groups and birthday parties. Bookings can be made at Computicket or with Sue on 011 484 1584. Cinderella runs until 26 July. During school days performance times are 9am and 10.30am while performance times are 10.30am and 2.30pm during school holidays. Related stories: |
