Jailoshini Naidoo is a riot in ‘Aunty Rumba Rocks Jozi’
A HOUSEHOLD name in Mzansi, Jailoshini Naidoo is celebrated for her work as a presenter, actor and comedian.
Fans have loved her as Nirupa in e.tv's Imbewu: The Seed and as Jennifer in the Kandasamys movie franchise. Interestingly, in the latest release, Kandasamys: The Baby, she shared the writing credits with Jayan Moodley and Yugan Naidoo.
As much as she is a tour de force behind the camera, she is a riot as her sassy alter-ego Aunty Rumba.
And Naidoo will be at Gold Reef City on Saturday for her new show, Aunty Rumba Rocks Jozi.
Why is Aunty Rumba such a hit with audiences?
Naidoo laughed: “She's super funny, nosy, sassy, spunky, witty and hard to resist. She has a strong opinion on everything albeit an often skewed one. Her strong presence and inimitable style have won many hearts.
“She's evolved with the times and therefore continues to grow a great fan base who love her. Love her or hate her, she's impossible to ignore and leaves you wanting more.”
Of the show, Naidoo said: “It's a laugh-a-minute stand-up comedy show featuring myself and my alterego, Aunty Rumba. Also joining me on stage will be Jani Punjab, an amazing, popular singer, and the super talented ragga artist, Lloyd Paul.
“The show is a lovely balance of comedy and music that requires audiences to let their hair down and escape into a world of fun and laughter.”
Reflecting on her journey with Aunty Rumba, she shared: “I first created the character in another hugely popular skit comedy show that we wrote and performed many years ago
and somehow the character took on a life of her own and stole the show.
“Soon she grew in popularity and became a much-loved household name. She also became part of a feature on the then Eastern Mosaic and later had her own comedy slot within my weekend breakfast show on Lotus FM.
“She's certainly grown and evolved over the years and uses her funny stories/humour to create awareness regarding many important social and political issues. It's often a constant social commentary.”
As for what's next, Naidoo shared: “This is the start of a countrywide
comedy tour so I have plans to take it to Cape Town next and many other cities. I'm also preparing for my next film shoot in April. And I'm writing the story for a new film in the works.”
Naidoo added: “We've been exploring the possibility of Australia and New Zealand this year and hoping it all comes together later in the year. I'm so looking forward to it all.
“Also, I want to say a massive thank you to all our supporters. I cannot do it without you and I'm so grateful for your love and support over the years.”
Where: Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City.
When: This Saturday at 8pm. Cost: Tickets are R280 to R500. Booking through Webtickets.
The Cry of Winnie Mandela
This is based on the popular novel by poet, novelist and essayist, Njabulo Ndebele.
Adapted by Alex Burger, the stage production of The Cry of Winnie Mandela will take audiences on a gripping theatrical journey.
This poignant play is crafted by a creative team led by director MoMo Matsunyane, the current Standard Bank Young Artist Award Winner for Theatre.
She is working alongside costume designer Onthatile Matshidiso, sound and videographer Vangile Z Mpumlwana, and award-winning set and lighting designer, Wilhelm Disbergen.
The action centres on the stories of Ndebele's imagined four women.
Between intense emotional moments and cleverly injected humour, the dynamic theatrical adaptation weaves together the characters' private accounts, exposing the shadows, isolation and complexities of their evocative experiences.
A series of intimate and powerful rituals unfold as they share the profound impact of this period of their lives, delving into the depths of their longing and uncertainty as they forge their stories with that of the life and times of Winnie Mandela.
The cast includes Rami Chuene as Mannete, Ayanda Sibisi as Delisiwe, Nambitha Mpumlwana as Winnie Mandela, Siyasanga Papu as Marara, Pulane Rampoana as Mamello and Les Nkosi as Prof Ndebele.
Where: Barney Simon Theatre, Market Theatre.
When: From this Saturday to April 21, nightly at 7pm.
Cost: Tickets are R100 to R200. Booking through Webtickets. For reduced-price block bookings (of 10 or more) and school groups, contact AnthonyE@markettheatre.co.za or call/message 083 246 4950.
My Son Pinocchio Jr
If you are looking for something to keep the little ones entertained, then look no further than this classic Disney story at the Peoples Theatre.
My Son Pinocchio Jr is told from the perspective of toymaker Gepetto, who embarks on an adventurous journey to discover the true meaning of family.
The production is underpinned by songs that the audience can sing along with, like When You Wish Upon a Star
and I’ve Got No Strings.
Where: People's Theatre.
When: On currently, until April 21 at 9am and 11am on Tuesday to Friday and at 10.30am and 2.30pm on weekends and public holidays.
Cost: Ticket prices vary between R140 and R165. For school group rates, contact the theatre directly. Book online at www.joburgtheatre.com or via Webtickets.
Expelled
This family drama homes in on the powerful world of social media.
Alex, who is in matric at a private school, finds himself ensnared in a viral scandal. As such, he finds himself suspended.
The decision has far-reaching consequences for his family as well as him. No under-14s are allowed.
Where: Mannie Manim, Market Theatre.
When: Until March 31, at 7pm. Cost: Ticket prices vary between R120 and R230 and are available via Webtickets. Discounts for students and block bookings are also available.