Someone will win this car at Meropa

This luxury Mercedes Benz C200 will be won at Meropa on 30 June 2017 when its Timeless Play promotion reaches its crescendo. Guests who have earned 180 points between 1 April 2017 and 07h00 on draw day will qualify for a ticket to the draw. By entering the draw, guests also put themselves in line to win a share of R100 000 in cash and free play

.

Guests simply have to play their favourite slots or table games using their Sun MVG card to earn points. Non members can still be part of Timeless Play by registering as a member at the Sun MVG Desk at Meropa. Registration is instant and fuss-free, and customers can start earning points straight away.

Sun International recently reinvented its well recognised Most Valued Guest (MVG) loyalty programme to deliver more rewards, exciting benefits and exclusive offers to guests visiting its casinos and hotels in South Africa.

A key enhancement of the new Sun MVG programme is the opportunity it provides to customers to earn both casino and leisure points when playing slots, table games, staying in hotel rooms and dining at selected restaurants and outlets at Sun International properties. Casino Points can be used for playback on the slot machines and table games and Leisure Points for hotel accommodation, dining experiences or exciting entertainment.

Caption

With the exquisite Mercedes to be won in Timeless Play are Meropa’s Belinda Bothma, Russia Chabalala, Matjatji Harpestad and Brutus Midzi.

Sun International proudly supports the National Responsible Gambling Programme. Gambling is for persons 18 years and older. Winners know when to stop. National Responsible Gambling Toll-free Counseling Line 0800 006 008. Sun International Casinos are licensed casinos.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert

Priscilla Queen of the Desert was absolutely one of the BEST productions I have ever seen. Normally when I see a production, musical or show of any kind there is normally something I could critique or something that maybe didn't sit well with me etc... but with this show, I have nothing negative to say.

The music was absolutely world class, there is a live orchestra and singers performing the songs, which were all songs the audience could sing along too. Preforming hits like "Raining men", "I will Survive", "True Colours" and many many more. The dancing to go along with the music was fantastic, no one missed a beat. The actors were in sync, they were energetic, passionate and didn't stop for a second. It was amazing to watch, I could not tear my eyes away from them.

 

Now the costumes! WOW, WOW, WOW... My favourite was the one below that looked like a hot air balloon/clown/anchor combination. I loved the colours, the over the top wigs, the way no body fell even, though I was half expecting someone too and the attention to detail was immaculate.  To be honest I loved all of the costumes, they had costumes ranging from plain sweats, to angel wings made out of neon lights, to tight leotards made of glitz and glamour, to hillbilly and cowboy looks. They were truly breath taking.

Pricilla....the bus's special effects and lighting were out of this world. We sat there wondering how they created this effect and still have no idea. It made the festivities of the show that much greater and really was a highlight of the entire show.

Overall the reason why I loved this show so much was because it had laughter, music, and dancing...but most importantly it was relatable and very much prevalent in our world today. There is still so much discrimination in the LGBT and Trans community, that a musical adapted from a film that was made many moons ago, that had meaning and purpose then, still carries such a strong and positive connotation now. It was the first show that I can remember from the many shows that I have seen, that I actually shed a tear and got emotional. Only for a brief time, so please don't think I sat there balling my eyes out, but there was a scene that was so powerful because it was so honest and open. The scene accompanied by the song "True Colours" showed the vulnerability and unacceptance of the character, which is a reality that so many face today in society. It was so powerful and moving. Besides that the musical was hilarious, naughty and amazingly choreographed. This show just leaves you with a feel good feeling, and that was amazing.

"Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a heart-warming and uplifting tale of three drag artist friends who hop aboard a battered old bus aka “Priscilla” and go off on the adventure of a life-time through the Australian Outback, to perform in Alice Springs.  On the way they find friendship, love and far more than they ever dreamed of."

Teatro Montecasino, Johannesburg . 29 April – 18 June 

 

DONT MISS OUT ON THIS AMAZING SHOW...BOOK NOW WHILE YOU STILL CAN!!!



Ratings:

Costumes...5/5 BluBirds

Music...5/5 Blubirds
                                     
Production...5/5 BluBirds
                                    
Choreography....5/5 BluBirds
                                    
Overall...5/5 Blubirds

                                   
TOTAL 25/25 BluBirds

 

Last Fighter Standing Breaks the Mold

Last Fighter Standing Breaks the Mold

The thrill of the fighting championship rocked the Ticketpro Dome on 15 October 2016
Expectations were exceeded by far, minds were blown and the fighting action was next level at
Last Fighter Standing (LFS) which took place at the Ticketpro Dome in Joburg on Saturday. From
the phenomenal Vegas style opening ceremony right through to the left hooks and right upper
cuts, knock-outs and submission style wins, the caliber of sports and entertainment on show
was unlike anything ever seen before on South African shores.

LFS Spokesperson, Darius Jakovchuk: “What an incredible weekend of fighting. The skill the
fighters brought to the table was off the chain. The response from the audience, which
numbered over 5 000 has been nothing short of phenomenal. Having an incredible opening
ceremony and performances by SA’s best musicians like MiCasa really added the cherry on top.
We can’t wait for next year’s LFS, we’ll be making it even bigger and better!”

The winning fighters who get a slice of the prize money and prestige are:

• LFS Ladies Featherweight Division - Essiane "Junior" Clotilde, beat her worthy opponent
Bunmi Ojewole after going the complete 5 round distance - by points.
• LFS SA Men’s Lightweight Division - Ceeh Khobone, beat Alan Smith, who although the
youngest entry within the LFS Nationals showed great determination and willpower, by
points after also going the full 5 rounds of receiving serious punishment!
• LFS SA Welterweight Division - Keagan Wroots won against Gunter Ngunza by a
strategic arm lock submission.
• LFS SA Men’s Heavyweight Division - Thabani Mndebela, who was fighting Quinton
Rossouw, won by points – in a fight that was called “the best South African fight of the
century” by many of the great sporting enthusiasts present at the Dome.
• LFS 4 Nations Division - Danyo Ilunga (Germany) beat Peter Graham with an exciting
knock-out, after Danyo lost his fight against Alain Ngalani on points, but Alain could not
fight Peter Graham (who won Kristaps Zile from Russia) due to an injury which he
obtained within his fight against Danyo during the International pre-lims.
• The SA vs Russia exhibition Heavyweight Fight, between Danie van Heerden and Reinis
Porozovs was won by Danie van Heerden when he got Reinis into an impressive
submission, which is not seen often within Heavyweight fights.

The incredible SA Nationals, in 4 divisions, fought it out for their share of R1 million in prize
money and Last Fighters Standing 4 -Nations, was awarded a total of another R1 million in prize
money. This clearly ensured fighting at a new level of crowd pleasing entertainment where
fighters showed heart, honor, dedication, integrity and mind-blowing action from start to finish.
Another awesome element that set LFS apart and some would say, way ahead of the rest, is that
unlike in other fights or competitions, the Women’s Fights’ prizes are equal to men. A very much
overdue development and one that is most welcome.

The CEO of LFS, businessman and media entrepreneur Quinton van der Burgh combined the
awesome new LFS platform with a reality TV show and charity initiatives in partnership with
Generosity Water.

Sexpo 2016: celebrating 10 years – now bigger and better than ever!

Sexpo 2016: celebrating 10 years – now bigger and better than ever!

 

 

Sexpo, Africa’s largest human sensuality and lifestyle expo, and one of South Africa’s favourite annual exhibitions, is back – and it’s bigger and better than ever. Its 2016 incarnation sees a new date, new venue and the introduction of some new touches.

Sean Newman, managing director, Sexpo “It’s our tenth anniversary, so we’re really excited about this year’s Sexpo, which has been remixed, revamped and reimagined to continue to appeal to an ever-growing and seemingly insatiable market, as well as attract new visitors.”

“Some key changes have been effected,” says Newman, “all of them designed to meet current and future needs, as well as address previous input from visitors over the years. So, to start, we have a new venue. Our new home, Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, allows the entire exhibition to take place under one roof.”

“We’re also introducing a limited access ladies-only area, a safe space where women can shop and explore their sensuality – complete with wine bar – away from peering eyes and male input. But, we haven’t forgotten the guys, either – we’re also introducing the Ultimate Man Cave this year, a space that’s dedicated to select male-interest lifestyle products; it also features a bar stocked with the finest Kraft beers on offer.”

“We are delighted to welcome Sexpo back to the Johannesburg Expo Centre in October,” says JEC Chief Executive Officer, Craig Newman. “It’s a significant year for a number of reasons. The JEC has been home to Sexpo for a number of years and we have built a successful relationship with the show organisers so we are excited to host it again. Also, the Sexpo celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2016.”

Newman says that show fanatics can expect a bigger and better event this year, with a more sophisticated approach. “The show will be classier while still delivering the same fun and excitement that fans have come to expect,” he says. “Of course, the Expo Centre is the perfect venue to deliver a memorable performance, as we provide ample parking space, easy access to and from the venue and multi-purpose exhibition halls, satisfying every possible show requirement. It’s an event not to be missed!”

 

 

This year’s Sexpo also sees the return of the legendary adult entertainment lounges including Teazers, Teaze-Hers, Phantasm LGBTI Lounge, Pulse Boys Lounge, Coyotes Angels Club and Theatre Erotic. Other highlights include the BDSM Play Area, informative seminars hosted in the Spartan Workshop, extreme body painting by Airvolution and Pricasso, described as “the world’s most famous penile artist.”

Of course the show would not be complete without local and international stars appearing at the expo. These include Frog productions and their extravaganza shows, the world famous Amateur Strip, Suzie Q Australia’s aerial and pole queen as well as international porn stars Jessica Drake, Vicki Chase, Tanya Tate and Bonnie Rotten.

But it’s not all sensual fun and high-spirited games – education and health also form an integral part of the Sexpo mix.

Says Sean Newman, “Sexpo is about exploring the full spectrum of the sensual side of life, rather than pure sexuality – catering to all interests and tastes. Sexpo is a destination lifestyle exhibition that provides a safe space for everyone regardless of race, age or sexuality, or whether you’re daring or shy. There’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy.”

SEXPO FAST FACTS
Dates: Thursday, 27 October to Sunday, 30 October 2016
Times: Thursday 11am to 10pm; Friday 11am to 11pm; Saturday 10am to 11pm; and Sunday 10am to 6pm.
Venue: Hall 6, Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, corner Nasrec and Rand Show roads, Johannesburg

Restrictions: Strictly over 18 years only
Pricing: Thursday R100 (Silver), R250 (Gold); Friday-Sunday R150 (Silver) and R250 (Gold).

Tickets: Computicket
Web: www.sexpo.co.za

Supreme Divas

SUPREME DIVAS

Celebrating Fabulous Women of Song

  

August is the month to celebrate and highlight dynamic women and this will be done in spectacular fashion on The Mandela stage at Joburg Theatre with Supreme Divas.  The show will run from Thursday 11 August to Sunday 14 August for four performances only.

 

Supreme Divas will delight audiences old and young as they celebrate the powerhouse female singers that have become legends through their music over the past few decades. 

 

Homage is paid to “old school” divas including Etta James, Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Donna Summer and many others while younger audiences will relish the celebration of hits from “new school” divas including Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Christina Aguilera, Adele and others. 

 

A fitting tribute will also be made to a few of South Africa’s own divas including Brenda Fassie, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Miriam Makeba and Claire Johnston.

 

Taking centre stage will be the insanely talented vocalists Tia Herman, Lelo Ramasimong, Tracey-Lee Oliver and Elizca Coetzer, with Born To Perform teenage sensation Marianthe Panas joining them as she makes her professional theatre debut.

 

Along with the dynamic 9-piece band led by Music Director Llewellyn George, audiences will thrill to instantly recognisable hits including R.E.S.P.E.C.T., Somewhere, If I could turn back time, I’m every woman, Hot Stuff, Stop in the Name of Love, Vulindlela, Valerie, Unqombothi, Do You Know where you’re going to, If I were a boy and many more.

 

Supreme Divas is the ultimate concert experience, honouring a selection of the many women who’ve made an indelible mark on the local and international music industry.

 

Joburg City Theatres will be producing the show.  “We want to portray South African talent at its best,” says Claire Pacariz, Executive Producer for Joburg City Theatres.  “And with Women’s Day on August 9th, we thought it would be an ideal time to honour legendary women in song.”

 

Performances for Supreme Divas run from Thursday to Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 3pm on The Mandela Stage at Joburg Theatre.

 

Tickets range from R150 to R250. These are available by visiting www.joburgtheatre.com or calling 0861 670 670, as well as through Webtickets.  

For group bookings of 10 or more, please contact the theatre directly on (011) 877 6853/6815. 

Supreme Divas is proudly brought to you by Joburg City Theatres in association with The CoLab Network and directed by Timothy Le Roux.  Vocalists will be dressed by Hollywood Costumes.

 

For media information, photos of our Divas and all interview requests, please contact:

COLLETT DAWSON

 082 653 1338 

collett@thecolabnetwork.com

 

TWITTER HANDLE:

@joburgtheatre

 

HASHTAG:

#SupremeDivas

Shrek The Musical

Shrek the Musical

Gold Reef City

24 June – 17 July 2016

 

 

A Shrektacular show ideal for the winter holidays

  

Make room for ogre-sized family fun as the greatest fairy-tale never told comes to life in the Broadway and West End hit Shrek The Musical which heads to Johannesburg for a limited season at The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City from 24 June to 17 July 2016.

 

From the producers of Little Shop of Horrors, Cabaret and more recently Sweeney Todd, KickstArt now brings Jozi audiences the musical stage adaptation of DreamWork’s global movie phenomenon Shrek!, set to delight old and young during the June/July holidays.

 

The talented local 28-strong cast will be bringing these instantly recognizable characters to life in this fabulous, fun, charming and hugely funny musical.

 

The leads are portrayed by Lyle Buxton (Cabaret, Annie, Beauty and the Beast, Sweeney Todd) as Shrek, Rory Booth (Xtrafactor, Puss in Boots, Aladdin) as Donkey and Jessica Sole (Cabaret, I Love You You’re Perfect Now Change, Orpheus in Africa) as Princess Fiona.

 

Also in the cast are Jacobus van Heerden (Popcorn, Little Shop of Horrors, The Ladykillers) as the diminutive Lord Farquaad; Graeme Wicks (Sweeney Todd, Aladdin) as Pinocchio; Charon Williams Ros as Gingy the Gingerbread Man and a ferocious fire-breathing dragon.... With a huge cast of fairytale characters, and a chorus of tap dancing rats!!

 

The stellar cast also includes; Ashleigh Harvey, Kyra Green, Luciano Zuppa, Samuel Hyde, Daniel Fisher, Tumelo Tokgwi, Senzo Radebe, Zchane Zietsman, Shani McLea, Sarah Richard, Caitlyn Thompson, Sarah Falconer and more.

 

The Johannesburg premiere of the hit Broadway show Shrek The Musical will be the first of many major productions to be staged at Gold Reef City following the completion of the recent multi-million Rand redevelopment; the premiere entertainment destination in the south of Johannesburg.

 

“The recent extensive refurbishment and expansion of Gold Reef City has created a perfect opportunity for us to stage this superb and larger-than-life Broadway inspired musical adaptation of the hit movie “Shrek”.  This magnificent production will feature a large cast, spectacular music and great humour that will delight both children and adults alike”, says Noeleen Bruton,  Director of Marketing –  Tsogo Sun Group.

 

Shrek the Musical is directed by Steven Stead, designed by Greg King, choreographed by Janine Bennewith, lighting by Tina le Roux with musical direction by Rowan Bakker. It is based on the 2001 DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture Shrek! and the book by William Steig. The musical adaptation has book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori.

 

 

Shrek the Musical has become a global phenomenon with productions staged internationally including on the WestEnd and Broadway. With an enormous cast, a fabulous score; speedy set changes; extravagant costumes, prosthetics and make-up – this is quite possibly one of the most challenging and elaborate productions staged by multi-award winning producers, KickstArt. It promises to be quite extraordinary, deliciously funny and a joyous romp for the whole family!  

 

 The story revolves around a benign ogre named Shrek who lives contentedly alone in a swamp. However, his solitude is disrupted when a band of disgruntled fairytale creatures show up on his property after having been banished from the Kingdom of Duloc, on pain of death, by the evil Lord Farquaad.

 

Irritated by having to share his swamp, Shrek journeys to see Farquaad  with the intention of regaining his privacy. On the road, he rescues a talkative donkey who insists on tagging along to show him the way. Shrek and Donkey arrive in Duloc where Farquaad demands that Shrek rescue his intended, Princess Fiona. The two unlikely friends set off to save Fiona. After a quest involving a fire-breathing lady dragon, Princess Fiona is “rescued” from the tower by Shrek. On the way back to Duloc, Shrek and Princess Fiona get better acquainted and Donkey tries, unsuccessfully, to match-make them.

 

As Princess Fiona and Lord Farquaad are about to be married, there is an uprising from the fairytale characters, and Princess Fiona realises that Lord Farqaad is perhaps not her champion after all. And in the tradition of all good fairy stories, the villain is vanquished, the hero finds true love, and they all live happily ever after.... 

 

A highly successful inaugural season in Durban in 2015 garnered the production seven awards in the prestigious Mercury Durban Theatre Awards (2014/5) including; Sound Design (Stephanie Pais), Lighting Design (Tina Le Roux); Director (Steven Stead); Supporting Actor: Musical Theatre (Jacobus van Heerden); Lead Actress (Jessica Sole); Lead Actor (Lyle Buxton) and the coveted Musical Theatre Production Award.

 

In the recent BroadwayWorld.com 2015 Awards, Shrek received two further awards; for best Costume Design (Greg King) and Best Family Friendly Entertainment.

And now it’s Jozi’s turn to enjoy this Shrektacular theatre production that’s been turbo charged as it brings a favourite movie to life on stage!

 

There is no better quality entertainment to be enjoyed in the winter holidays that’s ideal for everyone, not just the kids. A Broadway production at an affordable price!

 

Shrek The Musical is on at The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City from 24 June to 17 July 2016.

Afternoon performances run from Wednesdays to Sundays at 14h30 with evening performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 19h30.

Bookings can be made at www.goldreefcity.co.za or by calling The Gold Reef City Box Office on 011 248 5000 or through Computicket.

 

Tickets range from R150 – R290.

A variety of discounts apply:

• Tsogo Sun Rewards cardholders enjoy instant savings: 10% (Gold); 15% (Platinum); 20% (Black).

• Group bookings of 20 or more qualify for a 10% discount if booked directly with the Gold Reef City Box Office only on 011 248 5000.

• Edgars Club card holders enjoy a 10% discount.

• Shrek-tacular Show & Stay Deals are available at The Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel and include a delicious buffet breakfast at Barney’s Restaurant, access to all major rides and entertainment in the Theme Park, show tickets, and complimentary shuttle service to and from the casino complex.  Visitgoldreefcity.co.za for      information, contact Gold Reef City Reservations on 011 248 5700, or email Goldreef.reservations@tsogosun.com to book today.

 

The show runs for 2 hours 10 minutes with a 20-minute interval.

 

NO CHILDREN UNDER 4 YEARS will be admitted into the auditorium.