Love and laughter await Durbanites with Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert’s side-splitting ‘Date Night’
The month of love is here and couples across the country are gearing up for one of the most anticipated nights of the year, Valentine's Day.
The comedic duo, Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert, will be bringing their latest musical comedy cabaret, “Date Night", to the KZN Midlands for a laughter-filled performance on Friday, February 14.
Set to take place at the Horse Shoe Bend, the show promises a night of entertainment that blends humour with heart, making it an ideal outing for couples and friends alike.
Known for their energetic performances and comedic chemistry, the husband and wife pair are no strangers to the stage, having captured the hearts of many Durbanites over the years, with their unique brand of comedy.
“Date Night” is not just another Valentine’s production, it is a treasure trove of side-splitting laughter, riotous songs and unforgettable characters.
With their signature blend of wit and whimsy, McIlroy and Bobbert are gearing up to take audiences on a raucous journey that explores the ups and downs of love and relationships.
The producers believe that the show is ideal for couples as well as theatre-goers who are looking for an unadulterated night of fun and laughter.
“Expect the unexpected. There’s sure to be plenty of twists and turns that keep everyone on the edge of their seats and rolling in the aisles,” shared Bobbert.
She added: “Whether you are looking to celebrate your love, have a fun night out with friends or simply need a break from the traditional Valentine’s Day dinners, ‘Date Night’ offers a delightful alternative.”
“Date Night” is directed and choreographed by actress, singer, choreographer and director, Daisy Spencer, who has been working in the theatre industry for over a decade.
Where: Horse Shoe Bend, Tweedie, KZN.
When: Friday, February 14, from 6pm.
Cost: Tickets are R200 and can be purchased from Webtickets.
Mark your calendars, here’s a look into what’s to come:
“Happenstance”
Durban's esteemed Flatfoot Dance Company is set to enchant audiences with a pair of exclusive performances titled “Happenstance”, specially crafted for the KZNSA Gallery in Glenwood.
The evocative production will take place on Friday, February 28, and Saturday, March 1, offering the audience a chance to explore the beauty and complexity of contemporary relationships through dance.
Lliane Loots, Flatfoot Dance Company’s artistic director describes “Happenstance” as a vivid exploration of the interconnected moments that shape our lives.
“Happenstance is a synonym for coincidence, accident, a chance event or encounter … but usually producing positive results.
“In this, we invite the audience to journey with the dancers as they confront, meet and encounter one another in a display of beautiful soulful dance that resonates all that is possible when ‘happenstance’ becomes a powerful force for our individual and collective growth.”
The performance will gain additional cultural richness through the participation of Nairobi-based dancer, Maulid Owino from Kenya’s Dance Into Space (DIS).
“We have a long partnership with DIS and are delighted to be deepening our encounters by hosting Owino during February 2025.
“His fluid grace and skill as a dancer will afford Durban audiences a rare glimpse of the power of these fragile, yet beautiful, African connections,” shared Loots.
“Happenstance” is a collaborative creation featuring the talents of Loots, Owino and Flatfoot dancers Sifiso Khumalo, Jabu Siphika, Zinhle Nzama, Siseko Duba, Sbonga Ndlovu and Ndumiso “Digga” Dube.
Where: KZNSA Gallery, Glenwood.
When: Friday, February 28, and Saturday, March 1.
Cost: Tickets are R100, pensioners and under 12s pay R80. Bookings can be made via Clare at flatfootdancecompany@gmail.com.
“My Fair Lady”
Excitement is sweeping through Durban as the world’s best-loved musical prepares to take centre stage at The Playhouse Theatre.
Following sold-out performances in Cape Town and Johannesburg, this production promises to captivate audiences in Durban from March 8 to 16.
Presented by Pieter Toerien Productions and Cape Town Opera in association with The Playhouse Company, the highly anticipated show is helmed by the renowned director Steven Stead, with Greg King heading up design.
At the heart of this grand production lies a bouquet of timeless songs, featuring beloved classics that will resonate with theatre enthusiasts.
From enchanting melodies such as “I Could Have Danced All Night” and “Get Me to the Church on Time” and “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly”, to emotional songs like “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face” and “On the Street Where You Live”, the score is set to enthral audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
The cast is a vibrant ensemble of 38 talented actors hailing from across South Africa.
They will embody iconic roles in this timeless tale of transformation and love.
Leading the charge is the charismatic Craig Urbani as Henry Higgins, alongside Durban’s own Leah Mari shining as Eliza Doolittle.
The production also stars Mark Richardson as the lovable rogue Alfie Doolittle and veteran actor Graham Hopkins as the dignified Colonel Pickering.
“So often big musical theatre productions don’t come to Durban and we are delighted that The Playhouse Company has had the foresight and the vision to bring this handsome, exciting show to our town,” expressed Stead.
Where: The Playhouse Opera Theatre.
When: March 8 to 16.
Cost: Tickets are R150 to R250 and can be purchased at Webtickets.