GRAAFF-REINETNEWS — For the first time in a long time, the John Rupert Theatre was reasonably full for the recent performance of The Snow Goose.
Many people commented afterwards that it took them back to their childhood, with the familiar classic story.
The incredible husband and wife cast of James and Taryn Bennett, using very simple but exceptionally effective props, had the crowd mesmerised from start to finish.
They both displayed their acting skills in the various roles they took on for this production. A mask or a hat changed them into a new role, different accent or dialect and a brand new character. It all seemed so effortless from the auditorium.
The story of the snow goose is a sad classic with a moral that seems to stay with people for their entire lifetime. It is based on a short novella, A Story of Dunkirk, by the American author Paul Gallico.
It is a simple parable on the regenerative power of friendship and love, set against a backdrop of the horror of war. It documents the growth of a friendship between an artist living a solitary life in an abandoned lighthouse in the marshlands of Essex because of his disabilities, and a young local girl. The snow goose was wounded by gunshot and many miles from home and is nursed back to flight, revisiting the lighthouse in its migration for several years.
The audience awarded the actors with a very well deserved standing ovation at the end. The actors placed all the character props on the stage floor in front of the audience for all see the simple attire they used to slip in and out of the various characters that they had just played.
It was a really delightful evening out, and Cheryl Waddelow, the owner of the local Pick n Pay, once again provided wine for the theatre's patrons.
The Committee members of the John Rupert Theatre really appreciate the support that they are enjoying from the Graaff-Reinet Pick n Pay store, who help as a service to the community and to the theatre.
The Committee was delighted with the support from the community of Graaff Reinet at this performance and would like to use this opportunity to thank those who were there for attending.
They would also like to encourage those who missed this show to be sure to book their tickets early for the next one. Anyone with a passion for the arts who would like to support the theatre by offering their time to serve on the Committee should please contact them by emailing johnruperttheatre@gmail.com
The Committee is putting together a talent show in June and anyone interested in performing should also email the committee at johnruperttheatre@gmail.com and apply to participate.
A scene from The Snow Goose staged at the John Rupert Theatre last week.
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