STAR+CROSSED
cape town opera . artscape arena . 2022
Inspired by the extraordinary life of Elizabeth Klarer, one of South Africa’s most unconventional figures, this original musical reimagines her controversial claim of being abducted by an alien during the apartheid era. Framed against the backdrop of South Africa’s liberation struggle from 1910 to 1994, the story unfolds through a unique lens. Klarer’s tale of being taken to a utopian planet in the Alpha Centauri System, where she bore the son of her alien lover before returning to Earth to spread his message of love and compassion, is reinterpreted to explore the political climate of the time, offering fresh insights into what might actually have transpired.
CREATIVE TEAM
musical composition & direction : Wessel Odendaal
book & lyrics : Marcel Meyer
direction & scenic design : Fred Abrahamse
costume design : Marcel Meyer
projection design : Kirsti Cumming
lighting design : Faheem Bardien
production photography : Deon Coetzee
production videography : Mittelmeyer Live Streaming
REVIEWS
With impressive projection design by Kirsti Cumming, as well as Faheem Bardien’s evocative lighting, Abrahamse’s astute direction, and Meyer’s imaginative libretto and lyrics, the audience is kept in thrall from start to finish by this unlikely fairytale based on fact. ... Cumming's visual effects are magnificently devised and effectively complemented by Bardien’s lighting.
Beverley Brommert, Weekend Special
I would appreciate seeing this production in a bigger space since it sometimes felt like the music and scope of the story were bursting at the seams…. Plus, it is so exciting to see a proudly South African musical on the scene!
Klara van Rooyen, Broadway World
The scenic and lighting design provide a great canvas within which the tale unfolds with interstellar whimsy.
Barbara Loots, Theatre Scene Cape Town