Past Productions

Presented by Helderberg Academy of Theatre

Disco diva Deloris' life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Placed under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she shouldn't be found - a convent! Encouraged to help the struggling choir, she helps her fellow sisters find their true voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

Featuring original music by Tony® and 8-time Oscar® winner Alan Menken (Disney's Aladdin, Enchanted) and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, this heavenly musical is joyous and uplifting in equal measures.

A musical sent from above, Sister Act is the brilliant, must-see show which raises the spirits and warms the soul time after time.

The Playhouse Theatre is proud to present to you our upcoming Comedy production this October 2024, the award winning BBC comedy series, adapted for stage ‘ALLO ‘ALLO!, directed by Luke Botha. Bringing this beloved classic comedy back to the stage with many well-known characters from the series such as René Artois, Michelle of the Resistance, Herr Otto Flick of the Gestapo, and the well-spoken Officer Crabtree.

This show is set to bring to you many moments of side splitting laughter and the classic innuendoes that are not family friendly (PG16 RATING), you’ll certainly be having the time of your life in German occupied France where this story takes place in the familiar setting of Café René.

Top practical performances from Parel Vallei High School's Dramatic Arts
Subject. Tickets are R70 at the door or at the school finance office. The
bar will be open.

Storywood Inclusive Arts will be hosting an Inclusive Arts Festival for audiences with complex needs from 13-20 March, 2024 at The Drama Factory and The Playhouse Theatre, Somerset West. The festival will take place over 7 days and will include a number of theatre productions and arts workshops for audiences with complex needs and their carers. The aim of the festival is to create a safe space for such audiences no matter their specific need and to enable them to partake in arts experiences from which they are often excluded. Additionally, the festival aims to provide a platform for information- and skill-sharing amongst parents, carers and other theatre practitioners.

Join Parel Vallei High School’s Drama department as they host the seventh PV Playhouse Drama Festival – Primary School Final. The Playhouse is a community theatre and prides itself on youth involvement. A top school for Dramatic Arts in English and Afrikaans, Parel Vallei is proud to present this festival with 33 plays in 2024.

PV's Drama Department would also like to introduce their 4th and 👉 BIGGEST🌟 play.

This play consists of more than 👉65 learners on stage and also includes a technical team of 5 learners!
🎭More about the piece:

A moral prediction for Generation Beta. Sometimes, in order to survive, we must become more than we are programmed to be.

STOP THE NOISE POLLUTION EMISSIONS
START A SILENT REVOLUTION
KEEP YOUR FOCUS ON LIFE BEYOND THE SCREEN
YOU ARE IN CONTROL OF YOUR OWN FUTURE
IF YOU START TODAY, START IMMEDIATELY
YOU ARE IN CONTROL; NOT YOUR MACHINE
TURN OFF EVERYTHING
AND SEE HOW YOU FLOURISH
STOP RUNNING AWAY
SOME OF THE PEOPLE WHO LOVE YOU
WHATEVER YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
IS DONE THERE
STOP

✍Director and writer: Darryl Spijkers

Choreographer: Juanné van Wyk, Roxy Edwards

Featuring: Kyla Steyn, Miquette Eloff, Tishal Prag, Junior Rudvizo, Iviwe Dibela and more...

bookengine #stoptheworld #silentrevolution

Our next members' evening will take place on 27 August at 19:00 and will take the form of a fun-filled quiz night. There may even be a trophy for the winning team... 😉 Maximum of 6 people per team, although smaller teams are welcome.

This evening is for paid members only, although each member may bring a guest. If your membership has lapsed or you are interested in becoming a member, you can do so at the event (Membership is still only R100 for 2024).

Contact community@theplayhouse.org.za for more information, or to book your team

This captivating drama depicts the witchcraft purge in historic Salem as a potent reflection of modern society. It delves into how minor falsehoods can snowball into widespread suspicion within a close-knit community. Personal grudges intertwine with desires and superstitions, igniting mass hysteria. Arthur Miller's enduring allegory condemns senseless persecution and the destructive influence of baseless accusations.

A small group of girls falsely accuses townspeople of witchcraft to conceal their own involvement in the occult. Led by Abigail Williams, these accusations lead to the formation of a court to investigate. Among those ensnared in the trials are John and Elizabeth Proctor, a couple facing marital strife. John, who had an affair with Abigail, becomes entangled further when she accuses Elizabeth, aiming to replace her. Striving to clear his wife's name, John faces betrayal as Abigail targets him. The story, inspired by true events, concludes tragically as John is arrested for witchcraft. Faced with the dilemma of saving himself by confessing falsely or maintaining his innocence and tarnishing his reputation, John grapples with an impossible choice.

For the shows on Thursday the 29th (19:30) and the 31st August (14:30), we would like to invite all students for a Q&A with the cast crew after the shows' conclusion.

*We exist both where we’ve come from and where we’re going*

Inspired by the 1982 anti-war song of the same title – this is the story of Kleine Alle. She is a child of the world. She loves to listen out for the titihoya bird. She loves to play hopscotch. She loves to sit at the feet of her ouma. She loves to sing. She laughs and hopes and dreams.

This powerful piece of multilingual and multidisciplinary theatre takes us on a provocative journey of desperation, compassion and acceptance – created as a tribute to children around the world who live at war.

*Ons bestaan uit waarvandaan ons kom, en ook waarheen ons oppad is.*

Geïnspireer deur die 1982 anti-oorlog lied met dieselfde titel - is hierdie die storie van Kleine Alle. Sy is die wêreld se kind. Sy geniet dit om te luister na die titihoya voëls. Sy geniet dit om eenbeentjie te speel. Sy is lief daarvoor om by haar ouma se voete te sit. Sy is lief daarvoor om te sing. Sy lag en het hoop en drome.

Hierdie kragtige stuk van multidissiplinêre teater neem ons op ‘n uitlokkende reis van despirasie, deernis en aanvaarding - geskep as ‘n huldeblyk aan kinders regoor die wêreld wat moet leef in oorlog.

WRITER and DIRECTOR - Darryl Spijkers
CHOREOGRAPHER - Tanya Erasmus
Featuring Iviwe Dibela and Danica Moodie

Join us at the Playhouse AGM on 28 February to contribute ideas and time to the theatre! All are welcome.

To become a member you will need to be volunteering in some way!

Please contact secretary@theplayhouse.org.za to renew or apply or come along on the night. R100 membership fee applies and is payable by card on the night.

Get yourself some thigh-slapping, snort-out-loud kinda laughter with comedian Barry Hilton at the Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West on 9 and 10 February.

Having your funny bone tickled by South Africa's favourite family-friendly comedian is a great way to get the new year started. So be sure to book your tickets soon.

Barry has an uncanny knack of finding the humour in everyday situations that everyone can relate to and laugh about. People of all ages and backgrounds have been laughing with Barry for over four decades, making him somewhat of a comedy icon in South Africa. With humour that is never rude or crude, he leaves his audience in stitches and always wanting more.

Parel Vallei Drama presents our Learner production for 2024

Written by: Kyla Steyn

Director: Kyla Steyn

Assistant Director: Nina Strydom

Choreographer: Lara Steyn

With: Isabel Kruger, Nina Strydom, Annerie Havenga, Darius Pfaff and more

Wat doen jy as jy te moeg raak om aan te hou hardloop? Sweet loop tot in jou skoene en die trane lê al vlak. Jou mond is droog en daar is geen water byderhand nie. Jy ruik na sweet en verlore drome. Die lewe is ‘n gemors van bloed en weggooiwense. Jy is alleen en die tyd op die stophorlosie loop uit. Jy voel of die wenstreep myle ver lê en asof jy geen motivering het om uit en aan te hou nie. Hoekom sal jy jou stukkend hardloop net om te wen?

Jy jaag jou drome, maar kan jy dit bereik? Wat jaag jou? Wat het gebeur dat jy weghol? Ek hardloop, want dis my enigste uitkoms. Hoekom hardloop jy?

#Hoekomhardloopjy? #Stopdiehorlosie #J(A)AG

A Comedy show about the funny side of a culture clash. As if cohabitation between a man and a woman isn't difficult enough, add two contrasting cultures trying to learn about each other in the multi-cultural epicenter of Cape Town and you have a laugh-a-minute show. Within the current international obsession of who is right and who is wrong dominating our media, this show explores who all human beings are, at the core, the same - they just have different skin tones, languages, passports and ideas of appropriate footwear. But it is because of our differences, that we actually have so much more to celebrate.

It is Kurt's personal perspective and understanding and his uniquely accessible comedy-style that make his show universal.

Director and Writer - Darryl Spijkers

Choreographer - Unathi Mankahla

With - Dedrich Fourie, Hugo Strydom, Anja de Villiers and more

The play will represent PV at the Eastern Cape leg of the ATKV Tienertoneel competition in August.

A group of children grow up living in a caravan lot adjacent to a carnival fairground. Their days are filled with the games and the magic of being young, without cares or worries. Times change and the carnival closes down. The sound of the children remain.

Darryl Spijkers’ adaptation of the American classic novel ‘Of Mice and Men’ comes alive as we follow the saga of Bennie and Boef as they face growing up.

How far would you go to be your brother’s keeper?

#diehemelskrapers #hemerlenaarde #boef

‘n Groep kinders word groot in ‘n karavaan park wat grens aan die karnaval. Hulle dae is vervul met die speletjies en wonders van om jonk te wees, sonder bekommernisse. Tyd gaan verby en die karnaval sluit, maar die geluide van die kinders bly.

Darryl Spijkers’ se weergawe van die klassieke Amerikaanse boek “Of Mice and Men” word vertel soos ons die saga van Bennie en Boef waarneem soos hulle grootword.

Hoe vêr sal jy gaan om jou broer se wagter te wees?

#diehemelskrapers #hemerlenaarde #boef

Join Parel Vallei High School’s Drama department as they host the seventh PV Playhouse Drama Festival – High School Final.

The Playhouse is a community theatre and prides itself on youth involvement. A top school for Dramatic Arts in English and Afrikaans, Parel Vallei is proud to present this festival with 33 plays in 2024.

PG – Content is for High School level.

Join Christopher Robin, his best friend Winnie The Pooh, and the rest of his dear friends on a magical theatrical adventure in the Hundred Acre Wood. When Christopher Robin realises that there's no way of getting out of going to school next week, it's up to Uncle Alan and the rest of Christopher Robin's friends to help him get ready for his new adventure. Featuring all your favourite characters, you'll also meet new friends like Queen Beetrice, the ruler of the honey hive, her right-hand men General Zander and Commander Stripe, as well as the other toys from Christopher Robin's nursery. Get ready for a magical story full of dancing, singing, laughs, and most importantly, friendship.

Parel Vallei High School's English play for 2024!

Director: Candi Fourie

Writer: Yanou Pienaar

Choreograpahy: Leah Krynauw and Bethany Wentzel

With: Joani Frehse, Nina Strydom, Francis Retief, Alistair Jones, William le Roux, Leah Krynauw, Dedrich Fourie and more.

In "The Ice Cream Man," embark on a riveting journey of shattered illusions and desperate quests. Henry Miller's idyllic childhood falls apart when his father vanishes, leaving behind a void filled with lies spun by his grieving mother. Believing his father to be the elusive ice cream man, Henry's descent into darkness unfolds with each passing year, marked by violent outbursts and haunted visions. Yet, amidst the chaos, a beacon of hope emerges in the form of Skye, a steadfast companion determined to unveil the truth.

What will Henry’s epiphany be? Come witness this drama through the eyes of Henry, Skye and his family.

#parelvalleidrama #english #playhouse

For anyone who ever called an animal their best friend. They say cats have nine lives. How many do dogs have? No one gets a second time around – or do they? Join Spot and Sebastian on a great adventure. Like life, it does not turn out as planned – and the only way to deal with it all, is to laugh.

This new comedy drama is a life-affirming reminder about the transformative power of family, family and a relationship with your pet. Sometimes it really is the little things which mean the biggest things to us.

#ilovemydog #dogsrule #virspot

Vir enigiemand wat al ‘n dier hulle beste vriend genoem het. Hulle sê dat katte nege lewens het. Hoeveel het honde? Niemand kry ‘n tweede kans nie- of doen hulle? Reis saam met Spot en Sebastian op ‘n kenmerkende avontuur. Net soos die lewe, gebeur alles nie altyd soos ‘n mens beplan nie- en die enigste manier om dit te hanteer, is om te lag.

Hierdie nuwe komedie drama is ‘n herrindering oor die transformerende band van familie en ‘n verhouding met jou troeteldier. Partykeer is dit werklik die kleinste goed wat die meeste vir ons beteken.

#ekisliefvirmyhond #hondeisdiebeste #virspot

Met Francois Retief, Sebastian van Niekerk, Caleb Massyn, Megan Schweers, Annerie Havenga, Miquette Eloff en meer

Choreograaf: Carla Moses

Helderberg Academy of Theatre presents their third children's theatre production with an adaptation of this time honoured classic adventure. Peter Pan entices the three Darling children to his home in Neverland with the promise of magic and adventures. Will Peter be able to defeat the wicked Captain Hook? Will the Darling children ever get home? Suitable for theatre going kids of all ages!

Join the Playhouse with the all-singing, all-dancing spectacular musical variety show!

Back by popular demand ‘SHOW ME HOW YOU BURLESQUE’ is directed by Darryl Spijkers and Jon-paul Ruschenbuam who are known for scintillating productions that are not to be missed. With dance and song from musicals like Moulin Rouge, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Chicago and more – crowds are in for a treat! With Jarred and Travis Pitout, Ninke Theron, Andrea Martinez and more!

We will be hosting Ladies' Nights on 5 and 12 November, so gather the gals a make a night of it! Also, look out for our Late Night Performance on 15 November, starting at 22:00!

Jack the miller's son uses his last shilling to buy his cat some boots - and suddenly he has the most fabulous talking cat! And with Puss to help him, just about anything is possible - even defeating the fearsome Ogre Grimgrab and marrying the Princess! Expect all the traditional panto ingredients, plenty of song, laughter and audience participation - and some very dangerous Killer Rabbits!

Join us for a spectacular evening of modern dance, featuring the talented performers of Sumé's Dance Studio.

Experience the beauty, diversity, and creativity of our dances as we showcase a variety of styles and themes. Our dancers will captivate you with their passion for dance. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the art of movement and expression. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.

Experience the inaugural Fringe Fireside Chats in 2023!

Are you an Indie author, small business publisher, or reader looking to gain insight into the creativity of the self-publishing world? Join us from 11 to 13 August 2023 for fringe fireside chats in the Somerset West Winelands. This revolutionary book festival is dedicated to independent, unaffiliated writers, and will feature talks on how to become a successful Indie author, with speakers from the service industry for self publishing, as well as chats with self-published authors.

Take advantage of the cosy indoor venues, fireside chats or book corners to hear from our great line up of speakers. Soak up the atmosphere as you mingle with like-minded self-starters, or explore the accommodation and restaurant specials which will be posted closer to the event. This is a unique concept, and one suited to an August winter market. Don't miss out on this opportunity to join the Fringe Fireside Chats and be part of a new kind of festival.

Experience chats with Indie authors

Learn from speakers from the self-publishing service industry

Take advantage of accommodation and restaurant specials

Join us in August and take part in our inaugural event. You won't want to miss out on the Fringe Fireside Chats!

Pieter-Dirk Uys's new show is called SELL-BY DATE and, as expected from his one-person performances, features not only PDU, but also a cluster of topical characters: male, female and political. Being active in live theatre since the late 1960s, he is not surprised when people now ask: 'When will you retire?' His answer is short and sweet: 'Not retire; retread!'

SELL-BY-DATE will also show Uys at his 77-year old best, bringing laughter to various states of disaster. As always his political scriptwriters are not letting him down!

Undoubtedly one of South Africa's favourite comedians and a firm favourite worldwide, BARRY HILTON'S humour comes with an unmistakable flavour: funny. Good, clean, family-friendly comedy fun dished out in generous portions that keep audiences coming back for more!

Whether you're a die-hard Barry Hilton fan or you've never been to a comedy show, be sure to catch this comedy icon in action at his hilarious best. Barry will be performing UNSCRIPTED at The Playhouse Theatre on 3 & 4 February 2023.

Don't miss your chance to see and laugh with this award-winning comedian who has been thrilling audiences across the globe for 40 years.

Directed by Bryoni Currin

Hired to helm an Americanized take on a British play, director Lloyd Fellowes (Luke Botha) does his best to control an eccentric group of stage actors. During practice sessions, things run smoothly. However, when Lloyd and his actors begin a series of performances leading up to a Broadway premiere, chaos ensues. Star actress Dotty (Anne Walsh) is quickly passing her prime, male lead Frederick (Simon Jones) has no confidence, and bit actor Selsdon (Neil Ferguson) is rarely sober. Other familiar faces include Gill Jones, Michelle Sterley, Winston Gelderbloem, Victoria Kidd, Zané Habig and Tony Gaitskill.

A sassy musical variety show with numbers from THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW, CHICAGO, MOULIN ROUGE, MAMA MIA, BURLESQUE, TINA, PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT and more!

Join us at the Playhouse for a fun night out with our in-house singers and dancers. The bar open before and after the show.

Not for under the age of 16.

Fun-filled adventure for the whole family where a group troubled teens travel through fantasy worlds, growing, learning and finding hope.

Join us the Directors Forum if you would like to direct a production FOR or AT the Playhouse in 2024
Inbox us for more info or contact productions@theplayhouse.org.za
SUNDAY 16 July 17.30
No tickets required.
No cost.

Standby for more details!

Each night there will be four to six school plays competing for a spot in the finals of the festival. There is a Primary and High School section and plays are in all languages. The final will take place on Saturday 05 August.

Inspired by the book of the same name - a magical jungle-themed board game unleashes a world of adventure on siblings Peter and Judy and their babysitter, Sarah. Many lessons are learned as they encounter the squabbling Hunter and Huntress, naughty monkeys, a sneaky snake, bats, rhinos, and even a lion on their quest, where every roll of the dice brings a new exciting element to their journey. Will they solve the riddles to end the game?
Will life ever return to normal? Come watch the show and see for yourself!

Presented by Parel Vallei, directed by Darryl Spijkers.

From the producers of the smash-hit Fiddler on the Roof, Parel Vallei High Schools presents a shining production of THE WIZARD OF OZ, one of the world's most beloved musicals.

A sensational cast joins Dorothy and Toto this winter at The Playhouse Somerset West for an unforgettable adventure down the yellow brick road!

Featuring the iconic original score from the Oscar-winning MGM film including, Over The Rainbow, Follow The Yellow Brick Road and We're Off To See The Wizard - there is also a live dog and orchestra!

Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Mel the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto the Playhouse Theatre stage in the tap dancing adventure of a lifetime. Based on the smash DreamWorks animated motion picture, Madagascar - FanTAPstic Tap Dancing Studio's production, "Tapagascar" follows all your favourite crack-a-lackin' friends as they escape from their home in New York's Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien's Madagascar. Tapagascar will leave audiences with no choice but to "Move It, Move It!"

Celebrate the 75th birthday of Somerset West's Playhouse Theatre. With the Shiraz Band live on stage we will be enjoying a variety of musical theatre songs and memories. Special features feature the cast of THE SOUND OF MUSIC, CABARET and HAIRSPRAY for your entertainment!

Directed by Barry Hilton

Reduce your stress and release those endorphins with this show from Joe Emilio! Want to learn how to fight the Egyptian way? Or speak very best London? Then don't miss out! Come and enjoy Joe's gut-busting jokes about different cultures, languages and customs from around the world. Get ready to laugh! Crossing the borders is a hilarious and culturally diverse experience with comedian Joe Emilio! Straight from Texas, Joe uses his unique background to deliver a taste of cultural protocols and mannerisms that will have you rolling in the aisles. This show is directed by none other than the comedy legend himself, Barry Hilton. With years of experience in the industry, you know you're in for a treat with this one-of-a-kind show. With his animated facial expressions and audience interaction, Joe involves the audience and keep the crowd laughing throughout the show. Joe is not afraid to make jokes at his own expense as he takes you on a unique and comical journey that is his life.

Whether you're looking to escape the stresses of everyday life or just in need of a good belly laugh, Joe Emilio's show promises to deliver.

DO YOU WANT TO GO TO THE MASQUERADE?

"Masquerade" is a captivating and enjoyable show that features an array of musical numbers from different productions, masterfully performed by exceptionally gifted vocal students.

Having successfully staged "Masquerade" within the music department of Stellenbosch University last year, we were met with an overwhelmingly positive response from our audience.

The theatre production of Masquerade is an exceptional accomplishment—immensely entertaining and enthralling. Its universal appeal ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Director and Choreographer: Liné Koen
Accompanist: Winand Grundling

A full length show where a group of poor actors attempt to retel all 209 Grimm fairy tales in one super duper mega story. Our two Narrators will transport you to a world of magic and laughter as the actors portraying these stories get lost and confused along the way as they try to perform multiple characters, trying to make sense of the chaos they`ve put themselves in.

Guaranteed laughter and nostalgia throughout the play with many funny references and spin-offs of your most beloved childhood fairytales await you as they were originally depicted.

Step into a world where the past and present collide in a mesmerizing dance spectacle, as ‘Time After Time' takes centre stage. A captivating dance show that unfolds the heartwarming tale of a young girl's discovery of her grandmother's diary. As she delves into the pages of this cherished keepsake, she embarks on a journey through time, tracing the remarkable life of her grandmother—a passionate dancer and a young girl who once dreamt of a life on the stage.

As the pages of the diary unfold, the vibrant tapestry of two lives, separated by time but united by their passion for dance, comes to life on stage through the talented dancers of BeGraceful Studio.

‘Time After Time’ is a breathtaking ode to the enduring power of dance, family bonds, and the indomitable spirit of following one's dreams. With each pirouette and plié, the show leaves an enduring mark on your heart, reminding us all that the echoes of the past continue to resonate in the present, inspiring us to dance through life with grace, passion, and purpose.

BeGraceful Studio based in Somerset West offers classes for students from age 4 to 84 plus – all of which will be taking to the stage to perform in this production! They offer a variety of dance styles including modern, hip-hop, solo Latin, jazz and more. This show is suitable for young and old.

The international musical phenomenon Hairspray comes to the Playhouse presented by the Helderberg Academy of Theatre! After breaking box office records and delighting audiences in the West-End, on Broadway and on the big screen since 1988, this smash hit musical-comedy has quite the legacy, and now we're bringing it to the playhouse for the first time!

Welcome to the 60s, where everyone's grooving to a brand-new sound! Enter our vivacious heroine Tracy Turnblad, who has big hair, a big heart, and big dreams to dance her way onto national TV, and into the heart of teen idol Link Larkin. When Tracy becomes a local star, she is able to use her newfound fame to fight for liberation, tolerance, and interracial unity in Baltimore. But can she win equality - and Link's heart - without denting her 'do?

Look forward to some beautiful ballet in December with The Winelands Youth Ballet Team in collaboration with Artistic Director Robin van Wyk. The Nutcracker is a perfect holiday treat. Ticket sales open via Quicket 1 November 2022. For more info please email helderbergballet@gmail.com

Helderberg Academy of Theatre presents GREASE the Musical!

By special arrangement with DALRO, this smash hit classic is back with the SHIRAZ band live! Named after the 1950s United States working-class youth subculture known as greasers, the musical is set in 1959 at fictional Rydell High School and follows ten working-class teenagers as they navigate the complexities of peer pressure, politics, personal core values, and love. The score borrows heavily from the sounds of early rock and roll. ‘Summer Nights’, ‘Born to Hand Jive’ and ‘We Go Together’ are just some of the fantastic numbers you will experience in this full musical with Sandy, Danny, Rizzo and many more!

Directed by Darryl Spijkers and Jon-Paul Ruschenbaum.

Bookings open on Computicket in March 2022!

A fast-paced comic adventure retelling the familiar story with some unexpected twists! The evil Sheriff of Nottingham is trying to rid the forest of Robin Hood and his Merry Band of outlaw women (and Friar Tuck), especially once they rob the horrible Bishop Bloodsucker. Local landowner Guy of Gisborne divides his time between chaperoning the beautiful Maid Marian and doing what the Sheriff tells him. Things get complicated when Robin falls in love with Maid Marian. Will his loyal Band be able to rescue him? Will there be a happy ending? Will the Villagers be able to maintain their Merry-Band-supported lifestyle? With lots of sword fighting and some slightly risqué comedy, come to the Playhouse Theatre for lots of laughs and a cracking night out with friends. PG - 13

Set in 1929/1930 Berlin during the twilight of the Jazz Age as the Nazis are ascending to power, the musical focuses on the hedonistic nightlife at the seedy Kit Kat Klub and revolves around American writer Clifford Bradshaw's relations with English cabaret performer Sally Bowles. A subplot involves the doomed romance between German boarding house owner Fraulein Schneider and her elderly suitor Herr Schultz, a Jewish fruit vendor.

The sixth annual Playhouse Drama Festival will be hosted in August 2022. Co-hosted and managed by Parel Vallei High School this event has become a highlight in the local theatre calendar.

“We look forward to welcoming more and more schools as we have seen the festival grow. We have plays participate and three South African languages and would love to see this diversity grow and increase. Despite the lockdown we had 13 schools enter in 2020,” explains festival co-ordinator and Head of Culture Darryl Spijkers.

Started in 2017 by Annelie van Zyl and Yanou Pienaar, the festival allows youth to express themselves in a real theatre environment and take on the challenge of creating, acting, designing, operating and stage-managing.

The festival will take place at the Playhouse Theatre in Somerset West from 11 – 21 August 2021. The Playhouse Theatre Somerset West is a community based NPO facility known for its high standards in musicals, plays and dance shows.

The festivals’ winning plays over the past 4 years were:

2017 - Kopskoot

2018 – Too Bad

2019 – (V)LUG

2020 - Wentelkind

2021 - Hansie Slim

This year, to accommodate school entering from far and the limitations some schools have placed on their Drama departments – the festival will have both live and digital options and is open to primary and high schools. Schools can enter full-length one act plays, shorter one-person plays or monologues.

Schools can find out more about how to enter or participate by emailing dspijkers@pvallei.co.za

Tim Plewman steps out of the cave and into the lights as he ventures onto a new and very funny path to understanding the unique relationship between men and women.

“Return of the Caveman -- Designer Genes XXL” is the perfect night out for couples of all ages… actually it’s the perfect night out for anyone who is in a relationship, has ever been in a relationship or hopes to get into a relationship.

This heartwarming and hilarious show takes the audience from the doctor’s waiting room, through puberty, back to Homo Habilus, then on to a mall, a braai and the bathroom, all to discover how genetics rule our lives.

Titled “Return of the Caveman” in recognition of where this journey of discovery began, Designer Genes XXL is the next evolutionary step couples need to take.

“Tim was hysterical and had the ladies practically rolling on the floor with his talk! So much so, we would like to know if Tim will be available for our Golf Day...” SPAR Ladies Day

“…a very big thank you for attending our function and being an outstanding MC! What an excellent performance once again.” Goba Engineering

“You really had us crying with laughter.” KANHYM

“The crowd thoroughly enjoyed Tim and I have received great feedback – really exceptional.” Gestetner

“The Tim Plewman event was a huge success…We got such positive feedback from all our clients.” Mikki Ferreira, Insight Financial Planners

“A wonderful experience – comedy/therapy/educational/entertainment/presentation/empathy – Tim Plewman had it all, in spades!” Alan Campbell, CONSOL

“Tim Plewman rates 10 out of 10. Absolutely!” Speakers, Inc Evaluation Form.

“Thank you for a wonderful show last week Thursday. The feedback from our clients has been phenomenal…magic entertainment.” Raquel Rodrigues, Chartered Wealth Solutions

“Entertaining, funny, educational, empathy – A superb evening enjoyed by all!! Tim was outstanding and received a standing ovation! We’ve only received positive feedback. Our clients were overwhelmed and loved the show. Fantastic way to end the year!” Sonja Sadie, ACSIS

Back at the Playhouse theatre by popular demand – South African comedy icon Barry Hilton!

His delightful knack of finding the ludicrous and the humorous turns daily situations on their head to make us laugh at life. He’s been performing for over 30 years.

His face is as funny as his repartee, with lugubrious looks tailor-made for mirth. Barry’s gregarious personality makes him a people’s person, happy to engage with the audience before and after his shows.

Enjoy non-stop laughter with this versatile and dynamic performer with his magnetic charm, deft timing, tap dancing mind, unpredictable hairline and a gaze that doesn't miss a thing.

The World's most loved musical returns to the Playhouse. Based on a true story, The Sound of Music tells the tale of a young postulant whose free spirit has trouble fitting into the rules and regulations of the Abbey. Commissioned by the Mother Abbess to serve as the governess for seven motherless children, Maria transforms the Von Trapp family home from a place of dour rules and regulations to one filled with joy, with laughter, and with music. With its unforgettable score by Rodgers and Hammerstein includes some of the most memorable songs ever performed on the musical stage including 'My Favourite Things', 'Do Re Mi', 'Edelweiss', 'Climb Ev'ry Mountain', 'Sixteen Going on Seventeen', 'The Lonely Goatherd' and, of course, the glorious title song. Live music by the Shiraz band.

Popular pianist Rocco de Villiers brings a selection of favourites hit tunes: BALLADE FOR ADELINE liewe hemel liewe aarde CHARIOTS OF FIRE anna aeroplane MUSIC BOX DANCER kortbroek langkouse LOVE CHANGES EVERYTHING wat om te dra agter op 'n bakkie AMAZING GRACE reen kan jy nie koop nie HOE GROOT IS U kla 1 kla 2 kla 3 kla 4. And then the surprises. Maybe BEETHOVEN WITH A BEAT or even LORD OF THE DANCE? Not to be missed! ONE SHOW ONLY! ONE ROCCO, ONE PIANO, ONE SUIT - but so much more!

The Playhouse Theatre is proud to present it's annual children's production - Up and Away.

This magical tale based on the characters from Enid Blyton's The Magic Faraway Tree is coming to life this July in Somerset West.

Written and directed by Carly Beavon, this exciting adventure will take us up and away to magic lands filled with crazy characters and lots of surprises.

Freya, Bailey and Jonah are sent to stay with their aunt in the country. No wifi, no shopping malls, they are sure they will be bored stiff in no time at all. Until Freya discovers a diary filled with magical adventures that all started with the magic tree in the forest next door. What sort of exciting adventures await them?

Join them and their new friends as they discover what magic has been under their noses the whole time.

The Playhouse presents this powerful classic South African Drama. Miss Helen, a senior South African widow, has been working on an overgrown sculpture garden, which is a dream trip to "Mecca". Pastor Marius urges Helen to move to a senior home. However, Elsa, a Cape Town schoolteacher, arrives to encourage Helen in her art.

Take a tumble down the rabbit hole and join Alice in her adventures in Wonderland; filled with mayhem, dancing, heart and lots of fun. This fantastical adaptation of the classic story we all love features a new villain out to ruin fun for everyone in Wonderland… can Alice and her friends, the Hatter and Cheshire Cat stop him? Come see for yourself at a show that will certainly keep you and the little ones happily enthralled for a day or night out.

Following a successful run of “Dancing through the Seasons” in 2018, BeGraceful Studio brings you their 2nd Playhouse Theatre show, “A New Season”.

BeGraceful Studio has students from as young as 5 years old right through to 65+ years, all of which will be performing on stage in this dance showcase!  They will be showcasing the many styles on offer at BeGraceful Studio, including contemporary, jazz, solo latin, hip hop, couples dancing, bhangra and more!  A New Season is a joyful celebration of dance suitable for the whole family.

After a sabbatical of 20 years “Simply Rudy” and Guests will be taking a trip down “Memory Lane” featuring amazing songs from the past. Enjoy a relaxing evening with us as we perform epic songs like “The Nearness of You”, “Danny Boy”, “Misty”, “Be Back Home Again”, “Mr Bojangles” and many more! Also featuring “Donvino” on sax - on the 4th only - and the “Tony Drake Band” on both evenings.

Come stroll/tap along with us at FanTAPstic Tap Dancing Studios Tap Demo, 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗗𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗪𝗼𝗼𝗱 running at the Playhouse Theatre, Somerset West from 20 - 23 October.

This exciting Tap Dancing Show, based on the beloved book "The Gruffalo" promises to entertain young and old from start to finish. We are beyond excited that we can accommodate 100 people per show! Don't miss out!

Book your tickets at fantapstictapping@gmail.com or WhatsApp 074 886 0187.

Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have the intriguing, thrilling and unmissable comedy. The show features a notorious fugitive and a spellbound leading Lady from a London music hall all the way to Scotland's most remote highlands. Will they save Britain from a den of devious spies? A cast of four actors plays over 50 characters in this fast-paced tale of an ordinary man on an extraordinarily hilarious adventure. You'll be sure to leave the theatre entertained and in stitches.

The Little Mermaid is a well-known story about a little mermaid, Ariel, who falls in love with a human prince, gives up her voice and tail to kiss him, and then lives her happily ever after on land. While this rendition of The Little Mermaid starts off the same, it will not end as you expect.

Ariel has eight sisters who bring sass to the stage, while trying to be the best big sisters. Her closest and most forgetful friend, Dory, tries her best to help, but often just makes things worse. Sebastian is a clever little crustacean, but can he handle Ariel's desire to make her own choices? Perhaps Scuttle's crazy ideas and love for human artifacts inspire Ariel to make the decision that get her into trouble.

This adapted story of The Little Mermaid will have you laughing, maybe crying, and sitting on the edge of your seat wondering how this story will end. What will Ariel decide in the end?

Through all these crazy times, all we want to do is entertain you. “Tonight Belongs to Us” promises to take you on a journey where you can just sit and enjoy a night of dance and so much more.

Join a group of wonderful entertainers for a great night out!

Darryl Spijkers and Jon-Paul Ruschenbaum headline this sassy yet heartwarming little jukebox drag musical, which is presented by SCRUMPTIOUS PRODUCTIONS and HELDERBERG ACADEMY OF THEATRE!

Belinda’s Boutique in Bonnievale can’t seem to make ends meet in her aging costume shop. When an old friend and iconic performer, the much younger Scrumpy Holly pays her a surprise visit on old year’s eve – her comfort is challenged as they muse love, life and everything in-between. A fun filled one act musical that will make you laugh just a little bit more than it will make you cry!

The perfect way to celebrate the arrival of a new year! Especially with the Playhouse bar serving their amazing drinks!

Dear Primary and High Schools, we are so excited to invite you to Somerset West as we partner with the Playhouse Theatre to present a 4th School Drama Festival. In 2020 our online version was successful and the winners were able to perform live once the lockdown level lifted.

​

The story of the orphan Annie with all those hit numbers such as 'Tomorrow', 'Hard Knock Life', 'NYC', 'Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile' and more. As she escapes the grips of time honoured villain Miss Hannigan, she finds a new deal and a new family! The perfect pick me up!

Popular pianist Rocco de Villiers brings a soulful selection of the most beautiful hymns ever: Amazing Grace - How Great Thou Art - Blessed Assurance - The Holy City - Hallelujah - You'll Never Walk Alone - Pie Jesu - Down By The Riverside; a journey of beauty and hope in difficult times. Rocco gives a new jacket to some of these hymns, but always with the age old message still intact. Not to be missed.
Rocco merchandise at the door.

Catch The Greatest Show and enjoy a variety of musicals showcased by the Helderberg Academy of Theatre's amazing musicians, singers and dancers. From the classics Les Miserable and West Side Story to more recent hits like Waitress and Dear Evan Hansen - this show is a real treat presented by Gretel Shulze-le Roux and Matthew Martin! Don't miss out.

​

​

​

Theatre lovers will have an opportunity to see one of Athol Fugard’s more unusual plays when People Are Living There opens at the Playhouse. This is one of only two Fugard plays that do not concern Apartheid or township life and instead focuses on four South African downtrodden white people living in the centre of Johannesburg. Fugard garnered material for the play when he and his wife stayed in lodgings in Braamfontein, when he was employed by the Johannesburg Native Commissioners courthouse. Darryl Spijkers creates the realist design of this show with immense attention to detail. Rene Frylinck, Thomas Agates, Hugo Botha and Tanya Erasmus headline this four-hand comedy drama.

(V)LUG was a TOP 5 National production for the ATKV Tienertoneel in 2019. The Parel Vallei High School Afrikaans production won the Playhouse Drama Festival, the PV-Pearson Exchange and the Durbanville ATKV-streeksfinaal and placed 2nd at the Durbanville High School Drama Festival. It ran 3 sold out shows at the Playhouse in August 2019.

(V)LUG is based on a true story about a boy that begins to uncover some truths in his life as teenage pressures settle in. In his mind he finds ways to cope - but facing reality is the only way he can truly move on.

One of the most remarkable plays of our time; Tennessee Williams' Pulitzer Prize-winning southern drama comes to life on the Playhouse stage for its final four performances. Blanche DuBois, a faded and delicate Southern Belle, has mysteriously arrived on the doorstep of her younger sister, Stella, and her husband, the brutish Stanley Kowalski. Blanche makes herself at home in the couple's small apartment, however, her web of lies covering up her past soon begins to crumble. Her downward spiral brings her face to face with Stanley, leading to a final plea of passion and desperation that changes them both forever. 68 years after it was written, A Streetcar Named Desire is as spellbinding as ever. Don’t miss Samantha Taylor and Matthew Martin in this struggle for power and sanity as directed by Darryl Spijkers.

​

​

​

​

​

​

A new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice`s multi-award winning musical returns to The Playhouse Theatre for a limited run! Released as a concept album in 1969, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has become one of the world`s most iconic musicals, featuring songs that have gone on to become pop and musical theatre standards, including Any Dream Will Do and Go Go Go Joseph. The beloved show about the ability to dream has been performed hundreds of thousands of times including multiple runs in the West End and on Broadway, international number one tours, and productions in over 80 countries.

​

​

​

A Murder is coming to Somerset West this spring. Look out for Agatha Christie’s ‘The Hollow’ directed by Two Tall Ladies, Gretel Schulze-le Roux and Gillian Jones.
An unhappy game of romantic follow-the-leader explodes into murder one weekend at The Hollow, home of Sir Henry and Lucy Angkatell, arguably Christie’s finest comic grande dame. Dr. Cristow, the Harley Street surgeon, is at the center of the trouble when, assembled in one place, we find his plain but devoted wife Gerda, his mistress and prominent sculptor Henrietta and his former lover and Hollywood film star Veronica. Also visiting are Edward and Midge whose romantic affections are likewise thrown into the mix. As the list of romantic associations grow so does the list of potential suspects when there is an unexpected murder. Nearly everyone has a motive, but only one of them did the deed…

​

A three act play about three wildly incompatible married couples who spend three consecutive Christmas Eve dinners together. The play is based on the changing fortunes of these diverse couples. Imagine that all your worst Christmases have arrived at once! A delightful comedy of errors! Alan Ayckbourn at this best!

One of the most famous accounts of living under the Nazi regime of World War II comes from the diary of a thirteen-year-old Jewish girl, Anne Frank. The author and her family fled the horrors of Nazi occupation by hiding in the back of a warehouse in Amsterdam for two years with another family and a German dentist. Aged thirteen when she went into the secret annexe, she kept a diary. An all new production based on the 2016 London adaptation.

​

A vibrant musical review featuring all of your favourite songs from movies - performed by a cast of talented young singers and dancers, with live music by the very popular Shiraz Band, choreography by Leanne Angles (BeGraceful Studio), and directed for the HHDS by Darryl Spijkers. Featuring songs from "The Greatest Showman", "Footloose", "Sound of Music" "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" and many more!

Do you believe in magic? We know the old story of a dark forest, bread crumbs and two children getting lost before finding the delicious trap of the sweetie house. But surely some of the details must have got jumbled over the way? Despite their parents’ warning, adventurous Gretel convinced Hansel to venture into the gloomy woods. Along their path they found Mystical and Woodland creatures and a cat and his creepy friends. And why are witches always made out to be the villain? There must be more to the story… Come and meet our fun and colourful cast and see for yourself! A musical rendition of the classic Hansel and Gretel on their journey to discover a magical house made of sweet treats. Along the way they discover some strange and wonderful creatures and of course a witch and her cat…

HHDS proudly present their end of year musical - the classic smash-hit Broadway production of `Annie Get Your Gun`. Annie Oakley (Nicoline Murray) is a poor yet spirited and happy sharp-shooting country girl who becomes the star of Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show. Here she meets and falls in love with expert rifleman Frank Butler (Rory Eliot, former Plush frontman). Tough, outspoken, rough and tumble Annie is not Frank's idea of what a wife should be and the two remain at competitive odds. This fictionalized version of the life of real-life sharpshooter Annie Oakley and her romance with Frank Butler boasts a score of Irving Berlin gems including `There's No Business Like Show Business`, `I Got the Sun in the Mornin`, `Anything You Can Do,` and many more.

An absurdist, dark comedy, Baby with the Bathwater starts with new parents John and Helen staring lovingly at their baby, Daisy. The scene quickly takes a turn, however, as the couple show absolutely no knowledge of how to adequately care for their child. Needless to say, as the play continues, Daisy grows up to be quite an unstable child, with a tendency to run in front of moving objects, sleep with inordinate numbers of partners, and take thirteen years to get through his first year at university. After three hundred and seventy-seven sessions with a therapist, Daisy is told, “Pull yourself together! You’re smart, you have resources, you can’t blame them forever. Move on with it!” Somehow this reprimand is the advice Daisy finally needed to hear to move on with his life.

​

Shrek The Musical will be proudly presented by the Hottentots Holland Dramatic Society in November 2017 at the Playhouse Theatre Somerset West! Following a record-breaking US, UK and Ireland Tour, the smash hit blockbuster is now in Cape Town – and larger than life!
Based on the story and characters from the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks Animation film, this hilarious and spectacular production turns the world of fairytales upside down in an all-singing, all-dancing, must-see musical comedy. Join Shrek (Travis Pitout), our unlikely hero, and his loyal steed Donkey (Jarred Pitout) as they set off on a quest to rescue the beautiful (if slightly temperamental) Princess Fiona (Elena Mitchell) from her tower, guarded by a fire breathing love-sick dragon. Add the vertically challenged Lord Farquaad (James Bone), a gang of fairytale misfits, and a biscuit with attitude, and you’ve got an irresistible mix of adventure, laughter and romance, guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages!

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​