As part of the first international staging outside of the United Kingdom, the Olivier Award nominated play, Cruise, written and originally performed by Jack Holden, heads to Cape Town to The Homecoming Centre (formerly The Fugard Theatre) in Cape Town from 12 to 20 April 2023.
Starring Daniel Geddes, Cruise is the true story of what should have been Michael Spencer’s last night on earth. When diagnosed with HIV in 1984 , Michael is told he will have four years left to live. So, with the clock ticking, he and his partner Dave decide to sell their house, flog the car and spend everything and party like it is the last days of the world.
This one-man play is an emotional rollercoaster at times and at others, an hilarious ode to gay culture in the 80’s and how AIDS changed the community forever. Its staging in South Africa is very appropriate, as 2022 marked the 40th anniversary of the arrival of the HIV /AIDS pandemic on the African continent.
Critically acclaimed
Cruise opened in the West End of London in the thick of the Covid-19 Pandemic and was the first play to surface out of the pandemic. It ran for a month at The Duchess Theatre and due to popular demand and rave reviews, transferred to the Apollo Theatre in the West End, closing in September 2022.
This South African production of Cruise is directed by Josh Lindberg, with original music by John Patrick Elliott, set design by Wilhelm Disbergen and lighting by Jane Gosnell. It features Daniel Geddes in the re-staging of the Jack Holden original work. Daniel Geddes states: “Taking on a role of this scope and acclaim is super exciting and humbling. It’s especially nerve-wracking stepping into Jack’s shoes as the original writer/performer.”
The play has already had a successful run in Johannesburg, to critical acclaim.
What: Cruise
Where and when: The Avalon Auditorium in The Homecoming Centre, City from 12 to 20 April 2023
Tickets: Quicket
WS
