June 22, 2005
By Tabisa Mntengwana
IT IS every child's dream to live in a fantasy land - and now they can do just that for an hour or two, when they travel to Toyland with Noddy and his friends at the Civic Theatre.
Noddy is showing at the People's Theatre in the Johannesburg Civic Theatre complex until 6 August. The much-loved story is a delight, with all the familiar characters present and accounted for: Noddy, Big Ears, Mr Plod the Policeman, Tessie Bear and Bumpy the dog.
Big Ears is played by Francois Theron, with Ntsepa Pitjeng in the role of Tessie Bear. Four young actors, Justine Swallow, Kayla Critchfield, Alexia Oliver and Benedictine Blaauw, alternate as Noddy.
The Keith Smith and Jill Girard production is filled with music, using the latest rap and pop songs, and dance. The costumes and set are bright and colourful. The play opens with a new resident being introduced to Toyland. "Are you a toy?" asks Mr Plod. "Yes, I am," nods the little fellow, and so we are introduced to Noddy.
There is trouble brewing, however. One morning Mr Spark's car disappears and, as is so often the case, the new-comer is accused of the crime. Fortunately, there is a happy ending. Through a little magic, and loads of help from the audience, Big Ears comes to his new friend's rescue. The car is returned and the real culprits are identified.
The cast performs with energy and enthusiasm, and the audience - both young and young-at-heart - are invited to join in the fun, clapping and singing along.
Noddy is on at the People's Theatre from 21 June to 6 August. Performances on weekdays are at 9am and 11am and on Saturdays and public holidays at 10.30am and 2.30pm. During school holidays performances are also at 10.30am and 2.30pm from Monday to Saturday.
Tickets are available for R60 for non-members. Kids Club members pay R35 while accompanying adults pay R50. Special school tickets are available for R35 per learner with one complimentary ticket issued for every 20 learners. Tickets can be bought from Computicket or the box office.
For more information, contact Vanessa at the People's Theatre on 011 403 1563.
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