Brian Squires regales theatregoers with story of his dad, Tom Meehan
SPRINGBOK Radio comedy legend Tom Meehan’s life’s story will be recaptured by his son, Barry Meehan, aka Brian Squires.
Barry’s One Man’s Story will see him reading excerpts from his late father’s memoirs to theatregoers who want to know more about the legendary radio actor, writer and producer.
Tom’s memoirs, completed shortly before he died in 2003, tell a captivating story of a life well lived. This includes his childhood and school days, as well as job-hunting in Manchester in the UK.
The production will also divulge more about the radio legend’s time in the military during World War II and being taken prisoner of war.
Theatregoers will also learn about how he produced the pantomime Aladdin while interned.
Through his memoirs, Tom shared how he kept his fellows sane during the war while he was part of the Entertainment Committees.
As his son recaptures his story, the audience will also learn more about Tom’s marriage to Betty (Joy) Mungavin, his emigration journey to South Africa and how he became one of the nation’s most beloved radio personalities.
Other highlights of his life journey include playing the lead in the soap opera Brave Voyage opposite actress and broadcaster Yolande d’hotman.
Together, they also adapted the Leslie Charteris books, which featured the character of The Saint, for
Springbok Radio.
Tom appeared in radio plays such as Limes of Sicily by Luigi Pirandello and The Man from Thermopylae, while also acting in stage productions, including Hamlet, The Man Who Came to Dinner and With Intent.
Fans will learn more about how he
went on to start his own production company in the 1960s, which led to the making of his greatest hit, The Men from the Ministry, which was the South African version of the British comedy series.
When the original series ran out after two years, permission was granted for home-grown scripts to be written in Durban, and in 1971 its success resulted in a feature film which he directed himself.
With over 900 episodes, the series ended in 1985 with the closing down of Springbok Radio, but it was later revived for Radio South Africa.
Where: The Rhumbelow Theatre, Umbilo.
When: Sunday at 2pm.
Cost: R160 from Computicket.
Welcome To Bafaziland – The Musical
Welcome To Bafaziland is a loud, hearty, musical theatre production about gender equality.
Created and directed by Makhubalo “The Storyteller” Ikaneng, the audience can prepare for drumming, singing, acting and a story that will leave them with happy memories.
Where: Jambo Arts Centre, Pietermaritzburg.
When: Saturday at 2pm. Cost: R50 to R100 from Webtickets.
Musa Njoko: The Impossible Dream Series
This intimate production weaves different art forms together to tell the inspiring story of Njoko’s journey from hardships to success.
Through chapters of her life, this production delves into themes of grace, hope and reconciliation, offering a powerful message of resilience and faith.
Where: The Playhouse Company’s Loft Theatre.
When: Friday at 6.30pm. Cost: R200 from Webtickets.
Drakensberg Boys Choir – Weekly Concert
The Drakensberg Boys Choir is synonymous with high-energy performances, which have been captivating audiences for over 50 years.
The choir embraces the versatility, stamina and raw talent of boys from across the country and abroad to create a choral spectacular.
Their weekly concerts are jampacked with a variety of musical styles which range from classical and contemporary choral gems to authentic indigenous South African music.
Join the choir for an afternoon of musical entertainment and let the young stars creep deep into your heart with their sincerity and youthful spirit.
Where: Ken Mackenzie Auditorium at the Drakensberg Boys Choir School. When: Today at 3.30pm. Cost: R180 to R220 from Webtickets.
Company
This is the first production of the year from Kickstart, which continues to wow Durban audiences as the witty, wise and worldly musical explores love and marriage in an urban environment.
It’s the first time that the production has been presented professionally in South Africa: don’t miss it!
Where: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre at UKZN Howard College Campus.
When: Currently, until Sunday. Performances at 7pm on weekdays, 2.30pm on Saturday, 4pm on Sunday.
Cost: R180 to R220 from Webtickets.