Connect with us

Art

SA’S Empatheatre invited to UN COP27 to present award-winning Climate Change Play

Published

on

Durban-based award-winning theatre company – Empatheatre has been invited by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to present their hard-hitting play – Lalela Ulwandle (Listen to the Sea) at this year’s COP27 (6-18 November) in Egypt.

The production has been invited by the UNFCCC (The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) Secretariat to perform the award-winning theatre play Lalela uLwandle (Listen to the Sea in isiZulu) at the Capacity-building Hub of the Blue Zone of COP27 (14 November 2022, 17.40-18.40 Egypt time).

The company is currently running its critically-acclaimed work Isidlamlilo – The Fire Eater featuring the award-winning actress Mpume Mthombeni at The Sneddon Theatre, UKZN which ends on Wednesday ( 9 November).

Following this Durban season, they rush off to Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt to perform their much-toured, impact theatre work Lalela Ulwandle at the “Oceans and Land” day event at the Capacity Building Hub at COP 27.

Lalela Ulwandle explores themes of intergenerational environmental injustices, tangible and intangible ocean heritage, marine science, and the myriad threats to ocean health. Essentially this piece is an invitation to a participatory public conversation on ocean governance in South Africa (and beyond). The work was initially funded under the One Ocean Hub, the five-country hub of researchers exploring more democratic methods of engagement in ocean governance, and it is under this banner that the work will be seen at COP27.

“Finally we are bringing Empatheatre to the decision-making conference halls!” enthuses director Neil Coppen. “This means that these real stories are finally entering the United Nations, unedited and fully embodied! Through One Ocean Hub we have a spot in the Oceans and Land day event which seeks to respond to the mandate from COP to integrate and strengthen ocean-based action in their capacity-building efforts. In this context, there is a need for knowledge systems that include scientific, traditional, local, and indigenous knowledge to support decision making.”

“Our play, which has been touring South Africa since 2019 holding public storytelling events and tribunals has gathered thousands of coastal peoples’ spiritual, cultural, and scientific understandings of the oceans in these critical climate-stressed times,” continues Coppen. “We have performed through droughts and floods, through pandemics and political struggles- through personal losses and through massive shifts in the way we work and practice.”

Lalela Ulwandle (Listen to the Sea) which features Alison Cassels, Mpume Mthombeni and Rory Booth is directed by Neil Coppen, and written by Coppen, with contributions from Helen Walne, Gcina Mhlophe, Mpume Mthombeni, Dylan McGarry, Taryn Pereira, Kira Erwin.  The UFC (Urban Futures Centre) at DUT has been deeply involved in the production from the outset under the leadership of Dr Kira Erwin.

Catch Empatheatre’s Isidlamlilo – The Fire-Eater features Mpume Mthombeni, at The Sneddon, UKZN, Durban for 2 performances only on 8 November at 7pm and 9 November at 11am before they head to Egypt to present Lalela Ulwandle. Bookings are with

https://tickets.computicket.com/event/isidlamlilo/7201674.

Durbanite
Author: Durbanite

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Art

BUMP & GRIND – Back By Popular Demand

Published

on

Back by popular demand, Durban comedy favourites Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert-McIlroy return to the Northlands Bowling Club, in Durban North for audiences who missed the show the first time around.

Expect old favourite characters and a soundtrack packed with thumping hits as McIlroy and Bobbert once again deliver their trademark blend of side-splitting humour, larger-than-life personalities, and musical mayhem!

Some characters to expect; Bruce and Charmaine as unforgettable Elvis impersonators, Dot and Max settling into the chaos of retirement village life, and everyone’s favourite philosopher of the people, Dr Veejay, offering his “words of wisdom.” Add in a host of hilarious new faces, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a fun night out!

Directed and choreographed by the sensational Daisy Spencer, Bump and Grind promises to keep audiences on their feet — or rolling in the aisles — with laughter, music, and McIlroy & Bobbert’s unbeatable comic chemistry.

Whether you’re seeing it for the first time or coming back for more, this is a musical comedy experience not to be missed.

Other Info to Note:

  • Picnic baskets welcome
  • Food and Drink on sale at the venue
  • Full bar available (no alcohol may be brought onto the premises)
  • Limited secure parking available
  • All seats are allocated by the theatre management
  • Tables seat 8
  • Wheelchair friendly venue – contact 082 499 8636 to make arrangements

.  

Carla Wynne
Author: Carla Wynne

Just a 30something plant mom, nature enthusiast and happy wife, adventuring through Durbs and life!🌻🌿🤍✨

Continue Reading

Art

Watch The Little Mermaid Jr Musical This Easter

Published

on

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr to be staged by The Young Performers’ Project at the Milkwood Theatre, Danville: 2 – 12 April 2026.

Fishy Fable: Inspired by Hans Christian Andersens’ beloved fairy tale, and based on the classic animated Disney movie, The Little Mermaid Jr stage musical is The Young Performer’s Project’s first show of 2026, coming to The Milkwood Theatre in Durban North over the Easter holidays from 2 – 12 April 2026.

BUY TICKETS HERE

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages – perfect for the youthful 50 strong cast. This time around, the show features 30 senior performers, and 21 junior performers.

The Little Mermaid Jr is directed by Daisy Spencer, with choreography by Evashnee Pillay, music direction by Des Govender, sound design by Ant Govender, set and prop design by Nicolene Steyn and fabulous under the sea inspired costumes by Kathy Singery.

The cast includes Ariel played by Chloe Marot from St. Mary’s DSG (last seen in Shrek and Annie); Sebastian is Khethukuthula Ngcobo (I.S.P.A) and Flounder is played by Azania Mavimbela (Crawford North Coast).

In a heartwarming full circle moment, Azania’s mother Sindi, a current drama teacher, reflected on her own experience as a participant in YPP’s 2009 production of Big River, directed by Themi Venturas. Her daughter Azania, who entered the project seventeen years later as a Junior performer in A Fairytale Christmas Carol, is a testament to the organization’s lasting influence. This poignant connection also highlights the profound impact of YPP’s programmes on the lives of its alumni who are giving back to their communities as arts educators.

Inspired by Hans Christian Andersens’ beloved fairy tale, and based on the classic animated Disney movie, The Little Mermaid Jr tells of a mermaid who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find true love.

Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colourful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr offers a fantastic creative opportunity for rich costumes and sets, as well as the chance to perform some of the best-known songs from the past 30 years. Songs include: “Under the Sea“; “Kiss the Girl“; and “Part of Your World“.

Written by Doug Wright, with music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater.

Tickets are through Webtickets here. Their first show is a special Relaxed Performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30 where theatre etiquette guidelines are relaxed and the performance is consciously calmed, where the auditorium lights are dimmed, but not dark and the audience meet the characters ahead of time. This Relaxed Performance is ideal for audience members with sensory sensitivities. For all performances, audiences are welcome to dress up as the cast.

Good to Know:

  • Tickets: Webtickets -> click here to buy
  • Their first show is a special Relaxed performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30
  • Scholars and pensioners 10% off any seats throughout.
  • The show runs at 65 minutes – no interval
  • Audiences can meet the stage characters after the show

BUY TICKETS HERE

CLICK HERE TO WIN TICKETS!

Carla Wynne
Author: Carla Wynne

Just a 30something plant mom, nature enthusiast and happy wife, adventuring through Durbs and life!🌻🌿🤍✨

Continue Reading

Art

BUMP & GRIND this Valentines!

Published

on

Durban comedy favourites Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert-McIlroy return to The Rhumbelow Theatre, in Umbilo this Valentines weekend with their new musical comedy –  BUMP & GRIND, a high-energy musical sketch comedy that delivers a riotous mix of song, dance, quick-fire character comedy and heart.

Expect new characters, old favourites, and a soundtrack packed with thumping hits as McIlroy and Bobbert once again deliver their trademark blend of side-splitting humour, larger-than-life personalities, and musical mayhem!

Back by popular demand are Bruce and Charmaine as unforgettable Elvis impersonators, Dot and Max settling into the chaos of retirement village life, and everyone’s favourite philosopher of the people, Dr Veejay, offering his “words of wisdom.” Add in a host of hilarious new faces, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for Valentines fun!

Directed and choreographed by the sensational Daisy Spencer, Bump and Grind promises to keep audiences on their feet — or rolling in the aisles — with laughter, music, and McIlroy & Bobbert’s unbeatable comic chemistry.

  • Venue: The Rhumbelow Theatre, Umbilo
  • Dates: Friday 13 & Saturday 14 Feb – 7:30pm (doors open 6pm) | Sunday 15 Feb 2026 – 2pm (doors open 12.30pm)
  • Tickets: From R180pp
  • Bookings: Webtickets

Other Info to Note:

  • Picnic baskets welcome
  • Food and Drink on sale at the venue
  • Full bar available (no alcohol may be brought onto the premises)
  • Limited secure parking available
  • All seats are allocated by the theatre management
  • Tables seat 8
  • Wheelchair friendly venue – contact 082 499 8636 to make arrangements

.  

Carla Wynne
Author: Carla Wynne

Just a 30something plant mom, nature enthusiast and happy wife, adventuring through Durbs and life!🌻🌿🤍✨

Continue Reading
Advertisement

We Are Social

Trending