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Embarking on the production of a new original play comes with inherent risks. In South Africa, a country steeped in a rich theatrical tradition, the safer route often involves staging well-known productions to ensure financial success.
Complicating matters further, December marks South Africa’s unparalleled festive season, drawing the attention of diverse crowds, from the "I only drink in December" revellers to regular ‘groovists’.
Given this scenario, why is the Market Theatre choosing to stage a new play from 29 November to 24 December when people's focus is scattered amid various holiday engagements?
By presenting a brand-new South African comedy during this festive season, The Market Theatre aims to offer a unique and enriching entertainment experience that stands out amid the familiar holiday repertoire.
Written by Greg Homman and directed by Charmaine Weir-Smith, the play is set against the backdrop of an unnamed golf estate on the north-west edge of Johannesburg. ‘A Marry Little Christmas’ revolves around Arnold Hartmann, who, at 45 and three-quarters, endeavours to propose to Natalie Cloete before hosting the perfect 'traditional' Christmas lunch. However, chaos ensues as both families arrive prematurely, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and uproarious chaos.
The production explores themes of family, love, misunderstandings, and the topsy-turvy nature of following cultural practices, promising to lift spirits and leave audiences smiling.
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"It's wonderful to premiere a new play that has never graced the stage before, to be the first cast, and as the director, to introduce it to a fresh audience," remarks Charmaine Weir-Smith, a multiple award-winning director helming 'A Marry Little Christmas,' a new "laugh-a-minute comedy" penned by Greg Homman. "We're currently in our second week of rehearsals, and while putting on a new work is a bit scary, we're up for the challenge."
Since assuming his role as the Artistic Director of the Market Theatre in January 2023, Homann has spearheaded a remarkable year of diverse productions such as Mpume Mthombeni and Neil Coppen’s Isidlamlilo, J Bob’s Tshabalala’s Khongolose Khommanding Khommissars, and the stage adaptation of Damon Galgut’s The Promise.
During rehearsals for A Marry Little Christmas, the ensemble cast is dedicated to unearthing the essence of their characters through various processes, showcasing commendable comedic timing essential to the play. The scenes are humorous and clever under the involved and sharp direction of Wier-Smith.
The stellar cast includes some of South Africa’s most talented actors, with Antony Coleman and Kim Cloete leading the ensemble. James Borthwick, Judy Ditchfield, Louise Saint-Claire, Ilse Klink, Roberto Pombo, Zolani Shangase, and Trevor Lynch complete the ensemble. The chemistry is evident and palpable among the performers and the quality of each actor shines through at these early stages of rehearsals.
A Marry Little Christmas promises to be a must-see production for the holiday season and will premiere on the John Kani stage from November 29 to December 24. Tickets are available at Webtickets, Pick n Pay and at the Market Theatre Box office.
