News
A star is resurrected with a great cabaret show, A Star Is Born: The Rise & Fall of Judy Garland, at the Theatre on the Square
The theatrical production ‘A Star Is Born: The Rise & Fall of Judy Garland’ recently graced the stage in Sandton, brought to life by the East London-based theatre company, Wêla Kapela Productions. The cabaret show made its debut in Gauteng at the Theatre on the Square on September 17.
Directed by Amanda Bothma, known for her work on Vincent, the show showcased the charisma, character, and enduring talent of Judy Garland through the portrayal by Kerry Hiles, a talented actress and voice artist from East London.
Kerry Hiles’ remarkable performance was complemented by the skilled pianist Luke Holder, whose passion for the production was evident in his playing.
The concept for ‘A Star Is Born: The Rise & Fall of Judy Garland’ originated from Hiles’ curiosity sparked by a documentary featuring Garland’s contemporaries Elizabeth Taylor and Shirley Temple. The process involved extensive research, selection of songs, and script integration to narrate Garland’s journey effectively.
Hiles’ interpretation of Garland’s story on stage aimed not to imitate but to pay homage to the legendary star’s legacy. The performance, enhanced by Holder’s musical accompaniment, captured Garland’s ascent to fame and subsequent struggles.
Holder, reflecting on his collaboration with Hiles, emphasized the importance of storytelling through music and performance without resorting to imitation. His musical arrangements added a unique dimension to the portrayal of Judy Garland, creating an intimate and engaging experience for audiences.
For more updates, follow us on our Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for story ideas.
Find a related article on Good friends make life perfect in Sandton theatre play.
