Get hooked with Craig

Boskruin resident Craig Urbani (43) is currently playing Captain Hook in Peter Pan, The Pantomime at Joburg Theatre. The show blends adventure found in the traditional fairy tale with modern and South African comedy. Swords fly and heroes leap into peril to rescue damsels, as quips are made about Nkandla, Thuli Madonsela and Steve Hofmeyr, while modern songs are sung with lyrics that suit the situation in the family-friendly show.

“I love playing Hook,” Urbani says. “I don’t always play the baddie. It is always fun.” He adds that Captain Hook is bad but funny and “you love to hate him”. He is as evil and nasty as possible and tries to make kids scared,” Urbani says. “He is always trying to get rid of poophole Peter Pansy.” Despite this, Urbani’s favourite character in the story is Peter Pan. “I love the idea of how he [Peter Pan] never grew up. He takes it too far but I like the idea of keeping your inner child.”

Janice Honeyman writes and directs the pantomime while Bernard Jay is the producer. Urbani says that the show has a Christmas feel. “The panto makes you laugh, smile, feel Christmasy and family-oriented,” he says. The show officially opened at the theatre in Braamfontein on 9 November, and runs until 28 December. Ticket prices vary.

Urbani previously played Buddy in the original Buddy Holly Story in South Africa. He also appeared on TV in Isidingo, Vodacom Thumb Wars, Sharpshooter, Binnelanders, on multiple adverts, and hosted Miss South Africa 2007. Urbani also performed in various theatrical productions including Rocky Horrow Show, Buddy, Thoroughly Modern Milly, Kiss Me Kate, Chicago, Grease and Fame.

Details: Joburg Theatre info@joburgtheatre.com, 011 877 6800.