Feathers fly at Barnyard’s most daring show
Barnyard’s most daring show yet has people returning for more, writes Alyssia Birjalal
IF YOU’RE looking for music, aerial acts, funky dance routines and an electrical atmosphere all on one stage, then Big Top Rock is the show you need to see.
Directed by Duck Chowles, the production is dubbed the Barnyard Theatre’s biggest, most entertaining and daring show yet, and it’s packed with firm favourite songs from AC/DC, Kings of Leon, Aerosmith, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Elvis Presley, Pink, Elton John and Michael Jackson.
The six decades of music will have you clapping your hands and stomping your feet from beginning to end.
The cast is made up of a host of entertainers from vocalists, drummers and guitarists to dancers, acrobats and a ringmaster.
Wayne Cumming, who doubles from singer to ringmaster, says the show is special to him because it brings a different kind of magic every night.
“The show is on for two months already, but the reactions we get every night is amazing.
“We play to sold-out shows almost every night and although all the performances are the same, what makes it special for me is when audience come to me afterwards and say that it was one of the best performances they’ve ever seen. Some people come back three or four times.”
Cumming has been a part of the production since its debut in May 2017, and he’s always looking to perfect his performance.
“I am a creature of habit, so I am always looking for ways for the performance to be as polished as possible. It took us just two-and-a-half weeks to rehearse. Lucky enough, I worked with the same crew on a previous show, so it was easier to get into rhythm – we all gelled well and are now family rather than colleagues.”
One of the most captivating moments is Cumming’s solo performance of the song C’est la vie. He effortlessly climbs a light pole while singing.
“I have a fear of heights so learning to do acrobatics for this song was terrifying. As singers, we don’t generally do that, so I had to be taught to limb the pole, which, I might add, is very difficult to do.
“Every time I have to perform the song I’m a nervous wreck, but the crowd love it, and that’s why I will keep doing it.”
Cumming encourages audience to watch the show because he believes it’s far from average.
“It’s not your average Barnyard show, neither is it your average South African show. The concept is mindblowing and the cast is amazing, especially the aerial artists. They give the show a different look and feel and they will have audience in awe. In some instances, we still run to the side of the curtains to have a peak. It’s definitely a must-watch.”
Experience a variety of acts that include pole, acrobatics, silk, trapeze and lyra – all performed to the beat of the rocking live band and singers.
■ To book for the Big Top Rock at The Barnyard Theatre Suncoast until February 24, call 031 940 0500 or visit www.barnyardtheatre.co.za.