Roosevelt Park Recreation Centre-based community theatre group, Franklin Players, is thrilled to have the talented Naleli Mercy at the helm of this year’s pantomime, Girl in the Hood!.
This writer and director, who is also a is a dynamic performer herself, brings a wealth of experience and passion to the stage.

Read more: Discover your inner performer at the Franklin Players open day

Currently completing her master’s in Theatre and Performance at Wits, she’s no stranger to crafting magical theatrical moments – especially for young audiences. Over the past five years, she has dedicated herself to creating meaningful, entertaining, and empowering theatre for families. From teaching at the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy to diction coaching for The Lion King Jr. at the National Children’s Theatre (NCT), her work has consistently uplifted the voices of the next generation of performers.

Earlier this year, her award-winning piece The Great Race lit up the stage at NCT and is described as having showcased her heart for storytelling that educates, inspires, and brings people together.

Also read: The Franklin Players reward their best

Now, she’s bringing that same energy, vision, and flair to Girl in the Hood! – and the theatre group couldn’t be more excited. Get ready for a show full of charm, laughter, and a few unexpected twists, all under the direction of one of South Africa’s rising theatre stars.

The pantomime will run on November 14 and 15, November 21 and 22, as well as November 28 and 29 at the Roosevelt Recreation Centre.

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