AUNTY MERLE – THINGS GET REAL. Written by Marc Lottering. Music and lyrics by Marc Lottering. Direction by Lara Foot. Choreography: Grant van Ster. Lighting by Mannie Manim. Set design: Patrick Curtis. Music direction: Trevino Isaacs. Cast: Marc Lottering, Loukmaan Adams, Madeegha Anders, Crystal Finck, Carmen Maarman, Tankiso Mamabolo, Shaun Oelf, Jawaahier Petersen, Anzio September and Royston Stoffels. Baxter Pam Golding Theatre.
KAREN RUTTER reviews
Like the South-Easter and Granadilla lollipops, the summer season in Cape Town has become synonymous with a new Marc Lottering show at the Baxter. Of course, thanks to Covid we had to be patient for a while, but 2022 has brought a brand new production, which feels even bigger and bolder then those that came before.
Aunty Merle – Things Get Real is the latest piece penned by Lottering and directed by longtime partner-in-theatre Lara Foot. It’s a massive musical beast, clocking in at around three hours (the night I was there) and including some 15 songs, either solos or full-company tunes. This, on top of a multi-part script with a lot of moving parts, and you’ve certainly got your money’s worth for a night out.
Lottering has explained he started writing his latest Aunty Merle adventure during the pandemic – a time of anxiety, stress and sadness for many. As a result, although the production is predominantly a comedy, it does touch on darker themes, with the main thread certainly one of loss. Other issues, including drug abuse and youth at risk, are also bought into the mix.
A celebration
But, ultimately, this is a celebration – of life, of being back in the theatre, of hanging out with one of the funniest aunties on the Cape Flats. And it delivers, on all levels.
First, the cast – what a line-up! From Merle’s ever-present side-kick Soraya (Jawaahier Petersen) to feisty estate agent Mandy (Crystal Finck) to super-smooth Benny (Loukmaan Adams) and vocal powerhouse Ayanda (Tankiso Mamabolo) – they’re just mesmerising. Most get a chance to showcase a power song – Zane (Anzio September) rising to the occasion with a moving ballad, Moira (Carmen Maarman) raising goose-bumps with her solo – with lead dancer Shaun Oelf holding Grant van Ster’s choreography together with seriously eye-catching moves.
The band is a sextet of slickness the whole way through, adding to the live energy onstage. Patrick Curtis’ simple but effective set and Mannie Manim’s lighting provide the perfect supportive environment. Director Lara Foot’s sure hand at the helm is evident everywhere, ensuring pace and dynamic range throughout.
Of course, it’s ultimately about Aunty Merle – and Lottering is once again in his element, the centre around which this amazing cast and crew revolve. Merle has been with Mark for many years, and it shows – in movement, facial expression, everything. We love it – and clearly so does Lottering.
Aunty Merle – Things Get Real certainly gives you bang for your bucks. It’s long, but it’s also totally engaging. And judging by the jiving standing ovation on opening night, it’s another hit.
What: Aunty Merle – Things Get Real
Where and when: Baxter Pam Golding Theatre until 21 January 2023
Book: Webtickets
WS
