“A sweet and funny musical, quirky with a helium light score… a memorable tribute to the power of friendship.”
— The Washington Post
South African Première
KickstArt is delighted to present the fabulous family musical – the South African première of The Emperor’s New Clothes. This enchanting show will run at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on UKZN campus from 14 June until 7 July, during the school holidays.
From Company to The Emperor’s New Clothes
Hot on the heels of Steven Sondheim’s extraordinary musical Company – also a South African premiere – KickstArt embarks on its second SA premiere this year with the Broadway musical, The Emperor’s New Clothes.
A New Kind of Musical
The Emperor’s New Clothes is a charming adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairytale by Broadway stalwarts Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, the team behind the delightful musicals Once on This Island and Seussical, as well as Ragtime and Anastasia.
Synopsis
Broadway Theatre International describes the musical as follows: Fourteen-year-old Emperor Marcus the Third is nervous to take the throne. He believes that wearing the finest attire will boost his confidence. Marcus commands his Royal Clothesmaker to fashion the most royal wardrobe. A Swindler takes advantage of Marcus’ uncertainty, promising to make magic clothes that are “invisible to fools, liars, and anyone you should ignore,” for a hefty price. Only Arno, the simple-hearted Stable Hand, can help Marcus out of this royal mess and teach him an important lesson about outward appearances.
The Creative Team
- Director: Steven Stead
- Set & Costume Design: Greg King
- Lighting Design: Stephen Woodroffe
- Musical Direction: Roland Perold
- Orchestrations: Jaco Griessel
- Sound Design: Stephanie Pais
The Cast
- Daniel Anderson as Emperor Marcus
- Roland Perold as The Swindler
- Marion Loudon as Deena, Head of the Imperial Wardrobe
- Lyle Buxton as William, the Emperor’s Chief Advisor
- Mthokozisi Zulu as Arno, the Royal Stable Hand
- Keryn Scott, Amahle Tembe, and Roshanda Lewis as Villagers
A Delight for All Ages
This colourful and highly entertaining musical will delight both children and adults alike. Don’t miss this magical experience that promises to enchant and entertain.
Book Your Tickets
The Emperor’s New Clothes will run from 14 June to 7 July at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre on UKZN campus. Book your tickets at WEBTICKETS.
