Currently on at the Savoy Theatre, Music! Movies! Magic! opened on Wednesday evening 7 January.
Sue and I were seated next to Bongi Siwisa who had brought her grandchildren along for the fun. By the way Bongi, these types of shows will probably be a big hit at the Boardwalk – fun, family, rocking – all traits associated with your product.
Music! Movies! Magic! is a big fat shining arrow pointing the way forward to a shining future for our youth in the theater. The cast consists of 40 young people aged 7 to 17.
Co-directed by Rose Cowpar and Leandi Fontini we knew we were in for something special as the opening monologue from the two straight faced youngsters explaining the course of events drew peals of laughter.
One got the feeling that we were witnessing a maturing troupe, confident in their mastery of their craft and wanting to share the fun with the audience.
For me the epitome of success by the troupe in entertaining the audience was encapsulated in the total immersion of the four young boys (12 – 14 age range) seated in front of us and in the front row of the theater.
Shining eyes followed the artists on stage.
Feet tapping to the rhythm.
Fingers drumming to the beat.
Leaning forward to concentrate.
Spontaneous and enthusiastic clapping after every song.
Mouthing the lyrics to popular songs.
Jumping back in fright.
NOT noticing the minor wardrobe error OR, as I like to imagine: NOT pointing it out to each other as they were much too polite.
Surreptitious filming of certain acts.
NOT once scrolling social media.
Undisguised pleasure when any singer looked or pointed at them.
At interval I was moved to lean over and say to them; “Guys, you inspire me with hope, I am so enthralled with your reactions, please do keep it up.”
I did want to know why they were there watching Music! Movies! Magic! – maybe for a sibling, a friend, a romantic interest or a crush from afar – but that doesn’t matter – the pure enjoyment on their faces was enough to recommend that you also mosy on down to the Savoy Theater and enjoy a touch of Music! Movies! Magic! for yourself.
Take a young one or three along for the ride and get double pleasure.
Music! Movies! Magic! is on until Sunday 11 January 2026.
Details here: https://myza.co.za/events/event/music-movies-magic-2026/
