Aunty Merle keeps audience in stitches
Comic musical has troupe of characters
Seasoned comedian Marc Lottering is keeping theatre goers mesmerised with his musical show Aunty Merle.
The musical, directed by the renowned Lara Foot, opened at the Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein a week ago.
The comic musical is inspired by Aunty Merle’s mum and her eavesdropping on her conversations with her friends and neighbours.
Lottering’s alter-ego from Belgravia Road, Athlone in Cape Town, is definitely the star of the show.
With that wide smile, you fall in love with Aunty Merle the moment you see her.
In this show, he presents his troupe of characters very well, making the musical marvellous entertainment.
The cast of totally relatable characters present catchy and jolly songs complemented by choreography.
The whole performance is balanced by some powerful and moving performances.
The on-stage chemistry between the cast is electric, and matched with an effortless flow of dialogue illustrating the sheer talent.
Every one of the cast members showcases an impressive capability of dancing, singing and acting experience.
Not only can the cast act, but can carry a tune while performing vigorous dance routines involving table-jumps and handstands.
In order to make the musical interesting, Lottering had to creatively invent all the characters that make up his world.
During the performance,
Aunty Merle introduces her audience to a number of interesting people in her world that include husband Dennis with his penchant for jazz; her daughter Abigail, who is about to marry “the very white” Alan White.
She also introduces her son Carl, who is always in the company of his friend Siya, and Soraya, who is always popping in with delightful homemade offerings.
The show, that has received four nominations in the Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards, is characteristically fabulous and hilarious.
Aunty Merle is on at the Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein until March 3