Reps Reporter – October 2013

Reps Reporter – October 2013

The end of 2013 is racing towards us all, and who can believe yet another year is nearly over. It has been such a difficult year for many people, but here’s hoping that perhaps 2014 will yield a more welcoming and pleasant economic climate, which in turn may result in a better working and living environment for every one of us. Despite the problems, Reps has continued to do what it is supposed to and remains a busy and active part of the local arts, cultural and entertainment scene, which is a credit to a great many people, both members and non-members.

Cats under a hot tin roof

Our resident cats, Millie and Panda, continue to give good service in controlling the rat population and in meeting and greeting people coming to the Reps complex. They live in the lean-to alongside the workshop and wood store. They need to be kept fed, though, and here’s an appeal for a big boost of either goodies or cash in this regard. Philippa Johnston in the Reps office is key to their welfare and all donations can be channelled to her, please. Thank you to those people who have been helping out with donations from time to time – much appreciated!

Talking of the office and of donations, here’s an appeal for a special one-off donation: the Reps office needs a small fridge for water, milk and other items as the one that was there has ‘died’ so if anyone can help, this would also be much appreciated.

New members and a new membership benefit

A big welcome to new members Chiedza Chimhanda, Lorraine Preston and Val Caldecott. We hope they have many years of enjoyment with Reps and everyone looks forward to seeing them in the pub for a drink or at the theatre to enjoy a show. If you enjoy socialising with your friends and colleagues in a convenient and amiable place, why not encourage them to join and have a drink or two with you in your very own club? There’s an exciting new membership benefit for Reps card holders: a discount on meals at Arnaldo’s Restaurant in Kensington, simply by producing your membership card. This adds to a growing list of partners from whom members receive benefits.

Join the backstage team

Its Panto time again and if you are looking for a great way to spend some time in December, or your teenage children want something to do in the holidays – and learn a new skill – join the backstage team working on this and future shows. It’s lots of fun and can be a good family activity.

Reprobates active and offering a great outlet for aspiring talent

Reprobates is once again active and concentrating at the moment on scripts and characterisations.  More participants are wanted and needed and it’s a great way to see if an actor’s life is for you. Check out what Reprobates is all about with regard to training and development or if you feel that you have something special to add or contribute. Make contact via the Reps office.

Repteens running
The Repteens end-of-year production in Theatre Upstairs is well on the way to realisation, being directed by Frances Greeff. The show is called Dead Man Talking and will run in the second week of December. We really do encourage people to support this show and all the youngsters in it. A lot of time and effort goes into these productions and Repteens productions are usually both entertaining and enjoyable.

Preps stay active

Preps are working on their Christmas production. Under David Bvumbe’s leadership, the children have workshopped and improvised a story and are now well into rehearsals for what promises to be a fun romp in the world of jolly old St Nick. As they need as much rehearsal time as possible, all the children are now in one group, meeting on Saturdays from 10am until 12 noon. Just a gentle reminder to all that Preps is not a babysitting service, so please collect your children on time, folks!  Reps cannot be responsible for your children after this time.

Reptechs need hands on deck

The backstage team is still looking for plenty of people to join up and ideally they should be talented and practical people! No previous experience is required as all training is provided on the job. Please contact Stage Director PJ Smyth on 0772 321703 to find out more or get involved.

Coming to the stages

On stage in coming weeks (book for them all at The Spotlight):

Thursday October 31 – screening on the main stage of the cult movie The Rocky Horror Picture Show (6.30pm) followed by a Halloween party in the members’ bar. Dress for the show … check out what’s available in the Reps Wardrobe!

Saturday November 2 – Alliance Francaise present an international juggling show called De Fracto (7pm) on the main stage

Sunday November 3 (and Sundays November 10, 17 and 24) – Talking To Death, with the return of this excellent talk show that was popular a short while ago. George Barnes Room, Sundays at 7pm. Presented by 4D Arts and well worth a visit.

November 6 to 16 – Stars of Tomorrow, featuring young dancers from most of Harare’s dance studios. Programme A in week one and programme B in week two. Performances Weds to Sat nights plus Sat matinees. On the main stage.

November 20 to 23 – the return of National Ballet’s popular (and sold-out) HIFA show, When They’re Gone, poignantly drawing attention through dance to the plight of our wildlife. Performances 7pm each day plus 3pm matinee on Saturday. On the main stage.

December 5 to 22 – the 2013 panto, Cinderella. Directed by Graham Crutchley, musical direction by Meg Mackenzie. Stars Katelyn Mostert, Marc Thomas, Larry Greeff, Sue Bolt, Martin Bolt, Stephane Thomas, Michael Thomas and many, many more. Fun for the whole family. Note the special family nights (Tues Dec 10 and Tues Dec 17), when all tickets will be $8. On the main stage. Our first sponsor on board for this show: thanks to Eaton and Youngs for coming in to help make this happen.

December 11 to 14 – Repteens’ production Dead Man Talking, directed by Frances Greeff, running in Theatre Upstairs.

December 31 – gala opening night on the main stage of Zane Lucas’ new year show  for Reps of Noel Coward’s Private Lives. Snacks and drinks, then join the party in the bar afterwards or go off to your other commitments. The show moves later that week to Theatre Upstairs, where it will run until Sat Jan 11.

Social events coming up in the bar

Fri Oct 25 – Retrospex band live from 6.30pm

Thurs Oct 31 – Halloween party from 6.30pm

Fri Nov 1 – from 5pm, after-work drinks music from Tony Palmer and Mike Freeman

Fri Nov 8 – Country Jukebox bring a different sound to the bar, from tikkiedraai to pop and from country to vastrap … starts when the main stage show finishes

Sun Nov 10 – November fun pub quiz (11.15am) with quizmaster Chris Charnley

Did you know …

… that Reps members can now purchase as many tickets as they like at their members’ price? You can buy one, two or a whole house! That’s a great benefit and should encourage you to bring along friends and family to see Reps shows.

Until next time, keep well

Reps Exco