Review: Talia Kodesh Shines in a Tale of Roles and Resilience in ‘Actress’
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If you are an avid theatre lover and attendee like myself, or just someone looking for a captivating night out, ready to experience something new… I’ve got the perfect recommendation for you: “Actress.” I attended the opening night of this show at the Pieter Toerien Theatre at Montecasino, and honestly, it was utterly spectacular. From the moment the curtain rose to the final bow, “Actress” had me hooked, and it’s a show I can’t recommend highly enough.
With a whirlwind of emotions and artistry, it combined music, humour, dancing, drama, speech, heart, soul, and thought-provoking moments into an 80-minute rollercoaster of a show. It’s the kind of theatre experience that leaves you feeling invigorated and deeply moved.
Talia Kodesh, the star of the show, deserves every bit of praise she received. Her portrayal of ‘Actress’ is nothing short of mesmerising. Throughout the performance, she effortlessly transitions between her various roles as actress, wife, mother, daughter, and teacher. Kodesh’s ability to convey the complexities of these roles while navigating the challenges they bring just goes to show the manner of her exceptional talent.
But the brilliance of “Actress” extends beyond Kodesh alone. Natha Ro, the “props guy,” adds a delightful layer of humour and charm to the production with his expressive facial expressions and impeccable comedic timing. His presence on stage is a constant source of joy, and the audience couldn’t help but laugh and anticipate his every move. He really added a unique twist to show and Ro truly complimented Kodesh’s performance.
The heart of “Actress” lies in its storytelling. Set in both New York and South Africa, the narrative follows ‘Actress’ on her tumultuous journey through stress and success, anger and auditions, triumph and tears, dance and delirium. The story touches upon the universal themes of balancing various roles and the complexities that come with them.
As ‘Actress’ grapples with the challenges of her multifaceted life, the audience is taken on a poignant exploration of the human experience. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has ever had to adapt to new expectations, whether they are self-imposed or imposed by others. It’s a journey filled with moments of joy, sorrow, and the possibility of finding peace amid life’s chaos.
One of the standout features of “Actress” is its memorable musical score, composed by Bruce Dennill. The songs seamlessly blend with the narrative, enhancing the emotional depth of the story. Dennill’s music captures the essence of each scene, creating a powerful connection between the characters and the audience.
The theatre was packed, and the show concluded with a well-deserved standing ovation. It’s a production that lingers in your thoughts long after the final curtain falls, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the art of theatre. For me, this is what theatre is all about and why i fell in love with theatre in the first place. Shows like THIS.
“Actress” is a theatrical gem that deserves a place on your must-see list. It’s a show that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the intricacies of life. So, pack your dancing shoes, your tissues, and your sense of wonder, and make your way to Pieter Toerien’s Studio Theatre at Montecasino from September 27th to October 8th, 2023. This is an opportunity to witness the magic of live theatre at its finest.
For tickets and bookings, visit Webtickets, Pick ‘n Pay Outlets, or contact the Montecasino Theatre Box Office at 011 511 1988. Group bookings are also available by contacting Geraldine at geraldine@montetheatre.co.za
