The Psychedelic Theatre’s Picnic on Fire at the Taalmonument New

The Psychedelic Theatre’s fire dancers are back to light up the Garden Theatre at the Afrikaanse Taalmonument in Paarl with their ninth “Dans van die Vlamme“ show on Monday the 28th of December.

Actor and founding member of the Psychedelic Theatre, Marvin Lee-Beukes, says that this year they are proud to present a show that contains elements of fire dancing, puppetry, dance, mime and physical theatre.

“The show, named Senses, offers a unique theatrical experience combining the arts of fire dancing, puppetry and physical theatre. It tells a story about an inventor who is faced with his own frustration. He is experiencing a block and is unable to formulate any of his ideas any more. Only through the inspiration of the powerful element of fire is the inventor able to realize his ideas. With the creativity inspired by assistance of his senses he can create again. He has a wonderful idea, but can it withstand the heat?” says Beukes.

The show is written and directed by Craig Leo and choreographed by Jackie Manyaapelo. The performers are Richard Antrobus, Marvin-Lee Beukes, Anton van der Vyver, Claire van der Vyver, Toni Thord-Gray and Lanel van der Kolff. Lodewyk Ludik does the sound and lighting.

The picnic starts at 18:00. The performance starts at 20:30 in the Garden Theatre on the lawn right next to the monument. There will also be a pre-show choreographed and performed by Katja Hopkins and Lanel van der Kolff. There is a play park for the kids and a stall with hula-hoops, poi and other flow toys to play with and for sale. Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic baskets or they can order one from Volksmond Coffee Shop (tel. 021 863 2800). Coffee, beer, wine and light refreshments will be for sale.

The show is hosted in aid of the monument’s “Laat ons lees“ (Let us Read) Project. Tickets are available at Computicket as well as at the Taalmonument and at the gate. Tickets cost R130 for adults, R80 for students, and R40 for children under 13 year. For a special discount for block bookings of 10 or more people, send an e-mail to .  

Remember to bring a blanket or cushion and warm clothes. Safe parking is available and access is controlled. No dogs are allowed. In case of bad weather, the show will be postponed to 29 December.

For more information, call 021 863 4809/0543 or visit www.taalmonument.co.za  and www.facebook.com/afrikaansetaalmonument.

To interview The Psychedelic Theatre contact Lanél van der Kolff at 079 148 1933.