KickstArt will stage a family musical production of The Emperor’s New Clothes at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre in Durban.
The musical will run over the July school holidays from Saturday June 15 until Sunday July 7. The South African staging of the musical is a version of the famous Hans Christian Anderson fairytale by Broadway stalwarts Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.
The story revolves around 14-year-old Emperor Marcus the Third, played by Daniel Anderson, who is nervous to take the throne.
“Deciding that he can only gain confidence by dressing in the finest attire, Marcus commands his royal clothes maker to fashion him in the most royal wardrobe. Taking advantage of Marcus’ uncertainty and immaturity, a swindler promises to make magic clothes that are ‘invisible to fools, liars, and anyone you should ignore,’ for a hefty price. Only Arno, the simple-hearted mop boy, can help Marcus out of this royal mess and teach him an important lesson about outward appearance,” the Broadway Theatre International said in a media statement.
The show is directed by Steven Stead, with designs by Greg King, musical direction Roland Perold, who also plays the part of the swindler, and new orchestrations by Jaco Griessel. It cast also includes Marion Loudon, Lyle Buxton, Mthokozisi Zulu, Keryn Scott, Amahle Tembe and Roshanda Lewis.
“This colourful and highly entertaining musical will delight children and adults alike. We will put on a wonderful show and our cast and crew have worked hard to make all of this possible,” said Stead.
Book through Webtickets.