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This is a transcript of Caroline Smart's theatre round-up in the SAFM show AfterDark 07 June 2006
The fascinating science of forensics has captured the public’s attention in TV programmes such as BBC Prime’s Silent Witness and the American NCIS. This is the subject Aaron McIlroy has chosen for his new piece, D.O.F. currently playing at the Catalina.
As members of the audience, we become part of a student group attending a lecture demonstration from Professor Joel Liebenberg who is the Chief Forensics Officer of The Department of Forensics … commonly known as D.O.F.! Dressed in an overall with a scholarly pair of glasses, he advises us that we have to crawl before we can rocket launch – and then introduces a string of characters who are all residents (read prisoners) at this five star security complex which is known as Diep Kak!
Susan Donaldson-Selby has produced a highly effective set with metallic walls and bars which is
dramatically lit by Michael Broderick. Wisps of smoke offstage give us the idea of cold spooky corridors beyond.
Aaron has developed his own unique sense of timing which works so well for him. In one song, he goes helter-skelter through a Jerry Springer send-up at a frightening rate. One false word in the wrong place could bring the whole thing tumbling down. It’s a brilliant number and definitely the highlight of the show. All wildly flailing legs and arms, Aaron makes River Dance look like child’s play.
The most impressive character was the Anthony Hopkins-styled highly articulate, artistic and effete Dr Norman Lectum … who is always searching for alternative sources of protein! Under Steven Stead’s tight direction, I think DOF is Aaron’s best show to date. Expect to hear music by Super Tramp, Monty Python, Enrique Iglesias, Black Eyed Peas, Robbie Williams, Shaggy and Lou Read.
And I’m sorry I told you last week that D.O.F. is at the Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest which, of course, it isn’t. It’s at the Catalina Theatre on Wilson’s Wharf and you can book on 031 305 6889.
What is at Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest is Coming of Age with the Gee Jay’s. Gary McKenzie, Grant Bell and John Didlick are celebrating the 21st anniversary of their friendship and working relationship. All a bit older, a bit wider …and in John’s case, a bit balder! - they present a highly entertaining evening of fun and nonsense. When they first started, the GeeJays performed to backing tracks but now they’re using real live musicians and their band for Coming of Age is rock solid with veterans Dawn Selby, Barry Thompson, Glen Turrell and Mali Sewell providing some top class backing. You can book on 031 765 4197.
The highly popular show, Grease, made famous in the movie version starring Olivia Newton John and John Travolta, is running at the Barnyard. Directed by Ian von Memerty, it stars Steve Peralta, Natasha Staples, Lee Rath, Tessa Denton and Pierre van Heerden. Also in the cast is Durban singer Jeanette Summerton.
At Dockyard Supper Theatre, the new Hall of Fame tribute show honours Elton John with Paul
