From heartfelt heritage to hilarious hijinks: 'Dancing the Death Drill' and 'Noises Off' steal the show

Given that it is Heritage Month, with Heritage Day being celebrated tomorrow, the powerful theatrical production "Dancing the Death Drill" is certainly one for the books.

This production is a commemoration of the lives lost in the tragic sinking of the SS Mendi on February 21, 1917.

Directed by James Ngcobo, the artistic director of Joburg City Theatres, this masterpiece boasts stunning choreography, emotive storytelling and powerful performances.

"This is a story that has been living inside of me for some time," Ngcobo said. "Our goal was to create a piece that is both a haunting lament and a joyful celebration of life. The SS Mendi story must be known; it must be remembered. It is not something that belongs to a select few; it is a story that belongs to all of us." 

The haunting tale of South African soldier Pitso Motaung, forever changed by the tragic sinking of the SS Mendi, begins in 1958 Paris with a shocking double murder.

Pitso’s journey takes a tragic and unforgettable turn when he boards the SS Mendi, a troopship that sank in 1917, claiming the lives of over 600 black South African soldiers, a devastating and often overlooked chapter of our history. 

This poignant tale, woven with humour and sorrow, follows Pitso across decades and continents, exploring themes of war, love, loss and resilience.

Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre.

When: Runs until September 28; times differ.

Noises Off

This play-within-a-play centres on a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings as a cast attempts to stage a farce with a mix of acting talent and only two weeks of rehearsals. 

Naturally, everything that can go wrong does, which makes it one of the funniest farces.

At the helm of the LAMTA cast performing are award-winning actors Aiden Scott and Natalie Robbie as they attempt to bring their cheesy bedroom comedy “Nothing on to Life” to the stage. 

What follows is an overwhelmed cast and crew, doors slamming, emotions spiralling, romantic entanglements unravelling and utter backstage chaos. 

Directed by Chris Weare, the costumes are designed by Frankie van Straten, while the set and lighting design is overseen by Kieran McGregor. 

Where: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Main Theatre.

When: October 3 to 12; the times differ.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Time is running out to catch this fabulous musical! If you haven't seen it yet, you only have a few days left.

Presented by Pieter Toerien and the Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (LAMTA), this production exudes the vibrancy and infectious ambience of the beloved musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

What can you expect?

High energy performances to timeless tracks like “Any Dream Will Do”, “Close Every Door”, “There’s One More Angel in Heaven” and “Go, Go, Go Joseph”.

In this timeless tale, underpinned by uplifting themes of hope, resilience and destiny, Dylan Janse Van Rensburg plays the titular role. He is joined by powerhouse vocalist Lelo Ramasimong as the narrator and Chris Jaftha as Pharaoh. 

This show is fun for the entire family looking for an exhilarating outing. 

Where: Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre. 

When: Runs until September 28, 7.30pm. Weekend showtimes vary.