The Vertical Hour
Playwright: David Hare
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Producer: Pieter Toerien for Pieter Toerien Productions
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Direction & Lighting Design: Fred Abrahamse
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Set Design: Ande Gibson
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Costume Design: Marcel Meyer
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Photography: Pat Bromilow-Downing
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Cast: Michael Richard, Jackie Rens, Richard Gau, Jaco van Rensburg, Sinakho Zokuta
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Venue/s: Theatre on the Bay [September 2014] Pieter Toerien’s Monte Casino Theatre, Johannesburg [October 2014]
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About: Pieter Toerien commissioned Abrahamse & Meyer as the creative team to stage the South African premiere of Sir David Hare powerful political drama.
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What the Press Said:
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“Some plays engage the heart, some the mind and occasionally there is one like David Hare’s The Vertical Hour which engages both, to create stimulating theatre. Under Fred Abrahamse’s deft direction, the five-strong cast serve their opulent script with panache…Vintage Hare, highly recommended.” THE CAPE ARGUS
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“Making its South African debut under the direction of Fred Abrahamse, this intelligent drama centred on conflicting views of the 2003 invasion of Iraq leaves one with much to mull over…Under Abrahamse’s usual insightful and first-rate direction, Rens delivers a convincing portrayal of a highly educated and streetwise woman…ultimately, however, The Vertical Hour out and out belongs to Richard. He is performer who radiates nuance and subtlety.” THE CAPE TIMES
“Not for one moment are you likely to be anything other than transfixed” THE NEXT 48 HOURS
NALEDI THEATRE AWARDS
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Best Lead Performance in a Play: Male – Michael Richard [nomination]
Best Lead Performance in a Play: Female – Jackie Rens [nomination]
