Physical comedy and big-budget musicals offer two theatrical extremes this week.
? In the style of his previous physical comedies, Rumpsteak and The Dog’s Bollocks, South African-based, Belgian-born comic Gaëtan Schmid has created a new one-man show, Body Language.
This time round the “edutainment” concerns the secret language of the human body. Even if you do not want it to, your body talks and will not easily be shut up. Anthropologically, sociologically, biologically, psychologically, neurologically, but not too seriously, Schmid analyses the provenance and hidden meanings of everyday gestures. The message is of the ever-increasing importance of human interaction and communication.
Old Mutual Theatre on the Square, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton, until February 4. For bookings, phone: 011 883 8606 or 0861 22 5598, or online at: strictlytickets.com. Website: theatreonthesquare.co.za.
? Broadway’s longest-running blockbuster musical, now in its 25th year, returns to Jo’burg with a full South African cast. Phantom of the Opera, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit, tells the story of the disfigured musical genius who, beneath the majesty and splendour of the Paris Opera House, lives a shadowy existence. Shamed by his physical appearance and feared by all, the love he holds for his beautiful protégée Christine Daaé is so strong that her heart cannot resist him. Topping the cast will be Jonathan Roxmouth, Angela Killian and James Borthwick.
The Teatro at Montecasino from January 31 to March 25. Booking is now open through Computicket. Tel: 011 510 7472.