Duo go back to the future to learn about modern science
ASTROPHYSICIST Megandhren “Dr G” Govender’s latest blend of science and entertainment is a family affair for performers and audiences alike. Govender is the dynamic University of KwaZuluNatal lecturer known for taking science to young people in entertaining ways.
For his latest stage show, So You
Thought Einstein Was A Genius Too?, he has recruited the talents of his family and friends to deliver what he says is a “bigger, bolder, better” show with completely new material.
His wife, chiropractor Dr Neetu Govender and friend Neil Govender star in the show as a time-travelling old couple, Romilla and Dickson Appalsamy, “who are transported from 1963 to 2013 by a big bang”, said Neetu.
“They are shocked at everything.” The audience then accompany them on their comical adventure of learning the science of life in the 21st century.
“It’s actually my first time in this role — as a character,” said Neetu, who previously worked as Govender’s show producer. “It’s coming naturally.”
Besides the science and comedy, the show also features Bollywood music and dance — which is where Govender’s friends, daughter Kyla, 11, and son Lev, 7, come in.
Kyla dances and Lev stars in a surprise role. Kyla, on stage for the first time, said she felt “a little shy” but confident. Govender said the children were his most trusted and uncompromising critics.
“They are not afraid to say, ‘It’s boring, do something else’. The family have always been part of it — the children have been smothered in science and physics since birth,” he said.
His mostly young cast bring “creativity and energy to the show. They make me realise that I have to up my game as well.”
He promises audiences “from ages five to 105” an event bursting with the science of popular culture, from the dance craze
Gangnam Style to guru levitation, explosions and “marshmallow bazookas”.
The show takes place in the iZulu Theatre at Durban’s Sibaya Casino from Tuesday to Saturday this week. Tickets from R120 each through Computicket.