Heathfield High School pupils are practising to give the “performance of their life” in a production directed by comedian and alumnus Marc Lottering.
Marc has been working with the pupils since April to stage the fundraising production Another Fabulous Show, practicing three to four times a week.
Last year, Marc along with comedian David Isaacs, who also attended Heathflield High, held a fundraising show called A Fabulous Show – now Marc is back, directing Another Fabulous Show.
The show, which is about a group of pupils at school and two teenagers’ drama, will surely have you in stitches.
Marc, who attended the school up until 1984, said it was an honour for him to work with the pupils again.
Asked why he decided to come back to the school and direct the show, he said it was part of giving back to his community.
“My heart is with children from the Cape Flats because there are so many social ills and issues they have to deal with. Many people say they want to do something about or for our youth’s future but they never do,” he said.
“This was my way of doing something because keeping these children busy over weekends and in the week for practice and showing them a different world could be just the thing they need to change their situation,” he said.
He also recalls taking part in a play at the school as a pupil. “I felt so kwaai because I was part of the show. I blow-dried the front of my hair and enjoyed performing,” he said laughing.
“It made such a difference in my life and I wanted to give that to these kids. Everyone should come and see how hard they have worked,” said Marc.
Music teacher Lynn Hannibal said the pupils, teachers and other staff are excited about the show.
“The pupils went through a strict audition process and they are pumped to do the show. Marc giving up his time and teaching his craft to the kids is great and it means so much to the kids because they’ve learnt so much,” she said.
Lead actress, Grade 12 pupil Tyra Jaftha, 17, said working with Marc has been great. “He’s an inspiration and so cool to work with,” she said.
Band bass guitar player Ashwin Herman, 18, in Grade 12, loved working with the comedian. “It’s so awesome working with Marc. He is so humble. I am glad he came back and that he didn’t forget about his roots,” he said.
Another Fabulous Show will run this Friday, August 12, at 8pm, and on Saturday August 13 there will be a show at 3pm and 8pm, at the school hall.
Tickets cost R60 for adults and R40 for pensioners, pupils and children. Tickets are available at Webtickets or in-store at Pick * Pay or at Heathfield High School.
For more information, contact the school on 021 715 4622.