For the first time ever, the American classic and Pultizer Prize winning play – A Streetcar Named Desire comes to Somerset West.

Performed at the Playhouse Theatre on Lourensford road by Carnivals of the Heart (Fiela’s Child, Shirley Valentine, Romeo and Juliet), this play is listed as one of the worlds top ten most famous plays.

Disturbed southern belle, Blanche DuBois moves in with her sister in New Orleans and is tormented by her brutish brother-in-law while her reality crumbles around her. Blanche is played by Samantha Taylor and her sister Stella by Roxy Lombard. Rick Harrington plays Stanley Kowalski with Thomas Agates supporting them in his role as friend and lover, Harold Mitchell. The play makes powerful statements about the working class, alcoholism,  gender roles, love and marriage.

Directed by Darryl Spijkers this production makes use smoky New Orleans Jazz and blues to capture the unique atmosphere of the time. Dance is choreographed by Verne Osmand of Outline Dance Studio with dancing by Lizelle Gouws (Dances After Dark , Balletopia) and Gary Swart. An original song and musical direction has been headed up by Renier Jacobs with principal soloist Francois Deneyssen. Songs include some well known numbers such as Summertime, When the Saints go Marching In, Swing Low, Paper Moon and Feeling Good.  A special touch comes by way of Nick Hosking, a talented saxophonist who is known locally for performances with Kes & Nick.

On Saturday the 21st the final show will showcase two endings. One will be the original scripted end and the other will follow the 1951 film version ending which offers a different angle on the characters demise. Don’t miss this rich and vibrant story. Parental guidance is advised due to the sensitive issues dealt with in the play.

Book to see this contemporary American play that is studied and appreciated the world over.

Tickets are R70 and the show runs with a preview gala performance on the 11th of September, official opening night on the 12th and then again on the 13th, 14th, 19th, 20, and 21st at 19h30. Tickets can be booked through Computicket at R70 but are also available at the door.