- Disney’s The Magic Box, a 90-minute musical, brings 100 years of Disney magic to life at the Artscape Theatre, featuring an all-South African cast.
- Local artists express their dreams and passion for theatre as they portray beloved Disney characters.
- The show runs until 10 November, offering audiences a chance to relive their childhood memories through puppetry, elaborate costumes, and captivating performances.
It is not daily that one gets the opportunity to relive their childhood memories and bring all their favourite Disney movies to life, but a group of local artists is set to do just that.
Disney’s The Magic Box takes the audience on a 90-minute enchanting journey through the 100 years of Disney.
The musical, which originally premiered in January this year in Argentina, immerses the audience in a theatrical adventure that combines puppetry, elaborate costumes, and projections in an innovative and large-scale staging.
The world premiere featuring an all-South African cast and crew began at the Artscape Theatre earlier this month.
People’s Post recently caught up with some of the cast members.
For Gardens resident Hannah Norcott, being part of this production is a dream come true. It marks her professional debut. She got the role of a female swing, a cast member who must learn and cover multiple ensemble roles.
Dream
Norcott says: “My dream was always to be on Disney shows like Hannah Montana. To have a first professional debut as a swing straight after graduating and to have it with an international touring show associated with Disney is mind-blowing. When I got the call to say that I got the role I dropped to my knees and thanked God.”
Recording artist Tannah Levick (24) from Mouille Point plays the role of Sister Two.
She says this is her third big production having previously taken part in productions like We Will Rock You, MAMMA MIA!, and Tales Of A Big Bad Wolf.
But she says Disney has always been a part of her life.
“I love everything about theatre; when you are on stage performing a character that has nothing to do with you is an escape. It feels magical.”
Levick advises young people to pursue a career in the arts if they have a passion for it.
“Don’t do it unless you really love it. You sacrifice a lot and your time clashes with family events because you work at night. If you really love the arts, then it is the most beautiful thing in the world.”
Siya Makakane (24) from Observatory plays the role of Mother.
She too, is no stranger to the performing arts world and has taken to the stage in productions like We Will Rock You, Janice Honeyman’s Peter Pan,History Girls and starred in the international Hollywood film The Woman King.
As a young woman, she says playing the role of Mother has been an exciting challenge.
“I have no experience being a mother, but I think when you look at traits that human beings have, like empathy and warmth making people feel loved, that is what I took on to bring life to my role. It’s crazy to know I used to watch Mickey Mouse Club House and all these shows on Disney. Now I get to be a part of it.”
Believe
Makakane encourages young people to believe in themselves. She says young people often see successful individuals on screen and stage and write themselves off.
“But so much has evolved in theatre and TV, so it’s so much easier now to see yourself in those positions. If you don’t see anyone that looks like you doing it, you can be the first,” adds Makakane.
Goofy is played by 22-year-old Tumelo Mogashoa from Woodstock.
He has been part of LAMTA productions of Mephisto, COSI & Being Steve, Spring Awakening.
Mogashoa says he shares many similarities with his character, Goofy.
“Someone from Disney told us it’s not just fun to play these roles, it’s a responsibility. You are not just playing these characters, it’s about the people who created them in the beginning. It’s cool to play such a fun role. I can easily slot myself in with this role because we share similarities.”
Marco Titus (31) from Constantia says he loves bringing his characters Pluto and Handy Man to life.
Titus previously played in productions like Lift: The Musical, Mandela a New Musical and La Traviata among others.
He says experiencing the love from the audience after each performance is what makes the long working hours worthwhile.
“You get that rush and joy just to be appreciated and receive the gratitude from the audience. The audience is also part of the performance as much as you are.”
Titus explains that they are excited for the rest of the world to experience the show.
“I think it’s important to stay in touch with your inner child. This show connects with your inner child. It reminds you to play and enjoy life and to trust that life is giving you the best experience.”
- The show is on at the Artscape until Sunday 10 November.
- Tickets are available via https://disneythemagicbox.com/
