Award-winning National Children’s Theatre’s (NCT) play The Red Balloon returns by popular demand for another run at NCT’s iconic Inspiration Theatre in Parktown.
Acclaimed actor, mime and dancer Craig Morris returns as the featured performer in the one-person play, which was a Silver Ovation Award Winner at this year’s National Arts Festival. The Red Balloon combines the imaginative power of play with elements of mime, clowning and more. It teaches children the importance of inclusivity, and how we need other people to help us get through life.
The Red Balloon tells the story of a grumpy old man celebrating his birthday alone, when a magical balloon appears at his window. Initially set in his solitary ways, the man sees his life slowly changing for the better. He becomes compelled to share his home with this lively balloon, which playfully coaxes him out of his grumpiness.
The Red Balloon is a dialogue-free, one-performer show, featuring moments of both comedy and poignant emotion. The engagement between the old man and the balloon explores the power of friendship, demonstrating that with acceptance, and a little imagination, companionship can be found almost anywhere.
Recommended for audiences aged two and older, The Red Balloon is a delightful and compact 45-minute show written by playwright, director and educator Barry Kornhauser. It is directed by Toni Morkel, with design by Lisa Younger and music by Tony Bentel. It is stage managed by Babs Sewbaran.
The role of the grumpy old man is brilliantly portrayed by the talented Morris, who was nominated for a Naledi Theatre award for Best Actor in a children’s play earlier this year, and has won multiple awards for performance, including Loerie, Naledi, Fleur Du Cap, Standard Bank Ovations, and Vita accolades.
“The Red Balloon is a great way for parents and children to enjoy a fun, but heartfelt theatre outing,” says NCT CEO Tamara Guhrs. “We’re delighted to be bringing the show back after it was such a success earlier this year. Everyone is free to interact during the play, and children will love engaging with the grumpy old man and the balloon, as their charming friendship blossoms.”
Audiences are in for a charming theatre experience – as well as bunch of laughs. The Red Balloon makes for an ideal school-holiday activity for parents and children. The Red Balloon runs from December 7–16 at the NCT campus at 3 Junction Ave, Parktown, Johannesburg. Shows are at 10:30am and 2pm. Book on quicket.co.za.
For schools block bookings: Call Angie 011 484 1584 or email angie@NCTheatreSA.org.za.
