Experience grief and healing in Jamie-Lee Money's ‘Spin Cycles’ at the Baxter
Following a successful debut at the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe, writer and performer Jamie-Lee Money, and director Larica Schnell, are set to bring their acclaimed play “Spin Cycles” to Cape Town audiences.
This one-woman show highlights themes of grief, love, and healing, all within the dynamic setting of a spin class.
Performed predominantly on a spinning bike, “Spin Cycles” offers an experience that explores how individuals cope with loss through the high-energy environment of spin classes - impressive.
The production has garnered positive reviews, with “The Scotsman” describing it as "impressive," and Edinburgh Festivals Magazine highlighting its blend of humour and health awareness.
The narrative follows a journalist navigating personal challenges, using the spinning rhythm to process her emotions.
As the beats of dance music pulse through the theatre, the play examines whether she is merely working through her pain or embarking on a transformative journey.
Money shared: "I can't wait to share ‘Spin Cycles’ with Cape Town audiences. Grief is something we all experience in different ways, and the show explores how exercise can give us a sense of control when life feels upside down."
Where: The Baxter Studio in Cape Town.
When: From 19 February. Tuesday to Saturday at 8pm and Saturdays at 2pm.
Cost: Tickets range between R150 to R190 and can be purchased through Webtickets.
“Fiddler on the Roof”
There’s something timeless about “Fiddler on the Roof”, the musical that has captured hearts since its Broadway debut in 1964. And now, theatre enthusiasts can experience a fresh take on this classic, brought to life by the talented team at the Helderberg Academy of Theatre.
The story of “Fiddler on the Roof” is as relevant today as it was when it first premiered. Set in 1905 in the small Russian village of Anatevka, we meet Tevye, a humble Jewish milkman who upholds his family’s traditional values with pride.
But Tevye’s world is about to be turned upside down, as his five daughters seek to marry for love, defying the customs he has always known.
With each daughter challenging his beliefs, Tevye finds himself torn between clinging to the old ways and embracing the new.
The musical is a powerful exploration of the balance between tradition and progress, faith and doubt, family bonds, and the courage needed to embrace change.
This new production of “Fiddler on the Roof” is directed by Darryl Spijkers, the Cape Town talent known for his work on musicals like “Sister Act”, “Hairspray” and “Cinderella Van Die Kaap”.
Spijkers is no stranger to adding that extra spark to a show, and this one’s no different. Anyone who’s seen his work knows he has a sharp eye for theatre and a knack for giving stories his own spin—something that sticks with you long after the show ends.
Where: The Playhouse Theatre, Somerset West.
When: From February 15 to 25 at 7pm
Cost: Tickets cost R140 and can be purchased from Webtickets.
“Requiem for the Impossible”
“Requiem for the Impossible” is a groundbreaking interactive musical experience that brings the story of three South African sailors - Anthony Murray, Reginald Robertson, and Jaryd Payne - who went missing at sea in 2015, to the stage.
Co-created by South African and Dutch artists, this performance blends original music, documentary-style voice recordings, and poetry, breaking new ground where technology meets art.
The show is led by musicians Lucy Kruger and Liú Mottes, who guide the audience through an emotional journey.
The production explores the psychological concept of ambiguous loss, a state where the absence of closure leaves individuals in a prolonged state of grief.
Audiences are encouraged to download the Requiem mobile app before attending and are asked to bring their phones to the performance.
This innovative element allows the audience to co-create the experience, deepening their engagement with the story and enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative.
Where: The Homecoming Centre, District Six.
When: February 13 to 15 at 8pm with one show at 2pm.
Cost: Tickets cost R295 and can be purchased from Webtickets.