Theatre dream becomes a reality for young performers

Whip out your bowtie, slip into your high heels and get ready for an enchanted evening as the MRP Foundation invites you to the inspiring production Just Imagine at the D.L.I. Hall in Greyville, Durban on August 31.

The talented pupils from the foundation’s supported schools will take to the stage under the wing of the vastly experienced theatre director legend Peter Court, who said it is going to be an unforgettable night.

“We are going to be joined by some of the top theatre performers on the Durban stage, adding their own unique dash of showbiz pizzaz to an already glittering occasion…if we can imagine it, we can design it and make it a reality,” said Court, who is also the Creative Arts Implementation Partner for the MRP Foundation Schools Programme.

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The fundraising event has attracted a host of renowned local performers who have generously offered their talents, including singers Anthony Stonier, Bryan Hiles, Darren King, Rowan Bartlett, Lyle Buxton, Marion Louden, Pinkie Mtshali, Samantha Landers, actors Clare Mortimer, Gill and Nicole of InterAct, Mthokozisi Zulu and musician Shemual Mahabeer all joining the cast.

Pupils from five KwaDukuza schools – Aldinville Senior Primary School, Kearsney Primary School, St. Christopher’s Primary School, Nyakana Combined Primary School and Zilungisele Primary School – will be showing off their talents on the stage.

MRP Foundation Schools’ creative arts assistant Zanela Mhlongo said the pupils are truly benefiting from the experience they are getting through this play.

“The pupils are enjoying every moment with Peter Court. The experience is just what they needed – it has boosted their confidence, communication skills and they feel really special. Coming from rural areas has not made life easy for them so during rehearsal the feel they are doing something really important and that makes them feel loved.” said Mhlongo.

She said being part of a play like this can help pupils discover their potential careers.

“One of the grade 10 pupils found her acting talent with us and has now been cast in a Zulu drama called Umlilo. These opportunities mean a great deal to us and the pupils, because it shows that their backgrounds do not matter – what matters is their dreams.”

Tickets cost R1000 per person and includes an entertaining evening of music, dance and drama, as well as a delicious three-course gourmet meal. Drinks are not included. Dress code is elegant, with a touch of ‘imagination’. Book your tickets on www.mrpfoundation.org.

For more information, call Cathy on 031 310 8599.

Proceeds from the event will assist the MRP Foundation, an NGO, with its vision to break the cycle of poverty and inequality in South Africa through its education and skills development programmes.

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