Call Me Lee #OutAndAbout

Who knew that three gentlemen creating a world of characters around one piano on a black stage, could create such vivid colour and fullness. The production of Call Me Lee showing at Pieter Toerien's Montecasino Theatre, with a cast of three powerful performers, Jonathan Roxmouth, Weslee Swain Lauder and Samuel Hyde, had me engaged and enthralled from start to finish. And I just love that there are performers and artists out there brave enough to take the plunge of producing and investing in their own works. It's fantastic to watch original pieces created and produced locally, performed by incredibly gifted local talent and see it succeed and be well supported.

Samuel Hyde, who  plays the roles of Seymour Heller, Scott Thorson and various others, is the youngster of the three performers. Fresh out of Oakfields College, he has an ease and confidence rarely found in performers of his age and experience, and it was great to see him hold his own. With this being the launch of his professional career, there is only promise that lies ahead.




My talented friend and colleague, Weslee Swain Lauder never ceases to amaze me. Weslee plays Frances Liberace, George Liberace, Carlucci and others (including a fabulous frenchman), but I enjoyed the brother George and Liberace's mom especially. Brava Wessy, just superb!
If you read the program, Ian von Memerty (direction and choreography) writes a memoir about the night when the late Doyenne of SA theatre, Joan Brickhill first met Liberace during his South African tour in 1968. Joan and Liberace became life long friends and it is truly special to note that the mink stole Joan wore on the night she first met Lee, is now being worn in this production by Weslee, portraying Lee's mother.

Okay, Jonathan Roxmouth is just ridiculous. I knew he played and that he played well, but I had no idea he could play the piano quite like that! Those liquid fingers bring the sensational Liberace to life and added to that, his wonderfully endearing and sincere character portrayal draws you in, warms your heart and makes you fall in love with the man who would wink and say... 'Call Me Lee'.

It was another special evening at the theatre and I love that we get to expose our mentorship students to quality theatre and have them meet the real people, the working artists behind the characters on stage. Thanks guys and may you have a terrific run!
Call Me Lee is showing until 27 April, go and see it!



And just... Call Me Dee x