Rose Red

4.05 (20)

Rose Red

8 performances between March 6, 2014 and March 15, 2014
Cabaret
Created by Dianne Simpson & Pieter Bosch Botha • Directed by Pieter Bosch Botha • Written and Performed by Dianne Simpson • Musical Direction by Dawid Boverhoff
60mins
Rose Red Diane Simpson 01.jpg Rose Red Diane Simpson 02.jpg
Rose Red is the well-known fairy tale of Snow White turned on its head, as told through the eyes of the Evil Queen. Aimed at adults, this musical production is a wickedly fun, original and moving take on her story. It is cleverly woven together with light-hearted comedy and popular songs from Tori Amos, Annie Lennox and Brandi Carlile to Lady Gaga. This highly acclaimed performance by Dianne Simpson has been hailed as "a first-class performance…with perfect timing and often very funny asides…an hour of finely honed entertainment that touches the heart”.
The show is directed and produced by Pieter Bosch Botha, who was most recently seen in the critically acclaimed "Fully Committed" and Nicholas Spagnoletti's "Civil Parting". Musical direction is by the inimitable and multi-talented composer and musician, Dawid Boverhoff.

What the critics have said about Rose Red:

“Simpson is magnificent, giving a flawless performance as the queen…” – Lesley Stones, The Daily Maverick

* * * * “the combined talent of the three people involved adds powerful punch to this shining gem…sharp and witty…it’s the kind of show that has you smiling throughout.” – Diane de Beer, The Star Tonight

“fascinating…fresh and entertaining.” – Christina Kennedy, Business Day

“a layered, thought-provoking, witty and ultimately (and unexpectedly) moving examination of a well- known and much-maligned literary character…cleverly constructed stuff that never settles for the obvious, playing for laughs outlet (although there are many very funny moments).” – Bruce Dennill, The Citizen

"a touch of mad brilliance" - Artslink.co.za

"a treat....Simpson's Queen has got more edge.....a lot of fun....a deliciously dark romp" - Cape Times

"Rose Red packs as much laughter in the punchlines as you’d probably find in a production for kids. Light and darkness as a metaphor for life is used quite brilliantly. …really funny… Powerful." - Cape Argus

"Dianne Simpson was captivating….faultless" - City Press

Media & Reviews

Review of Rose Red by Eugene Yiga

Review of Rose Red by Steyn du Toit

Audience Responses

It was a wonderful production though you could tell the performer was hoarse from singing all week.

Fazielah • Attended March 13, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

I very much liked the setting, both upstairs where it's small and intimate and downstairs where the bar and rest of the decor is nice. Staff were also friendly so well done. I thought the artist did a good performance and the little team worked quite well. felt that her voice did not always hit all the notes as well as I guess she would have like to hit them. quite a good show overall.

Sam • Attended March 13, 2014, 9 p.m.
3.0

We both loved the show. Venue is great, food choice adequate & performance brilliant. Thank you for something unique for CT.

Beverley • Attended March 15, 2014, 9 p.m.
5.0

Great concept and script. Wonderful performance. I enjoyed it immensely.

Malcolm • Attended March 15, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

Excellent production and great informal atmosphere. The distribution of tickets could be better organised or clearer for the benefit of new supporters

Donald • Attended March 6, 2014, 9 p.m.
5.0

Such a great performance in a perfect venue.

Leigh • Attended March 12, 2014, 9 p.m.
5.0

We both loved the show. Venue is great, food choice adequate & performance brilliant. Thank you for something unique for CT.

Beverley • Attended March 15, 2014, 9 p.m.
5.0

Great concept and script. Wonderful performance. I enjoyed it immensely.

Malcolm • Attended March 15, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

A very good actress with a beautiful voice.

Andrew • Attended March 13, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

Well thought out script and subject matter. Very well acted. I like this format of theatre because it is easy to really get into it; the length of the show and intimate space lends itself to that.

Natalie • Attended March 14, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

Very strong performance by lead actress and original show. Very enjoyable

robert • Attended March 8, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

Two fellow (sometimes evil) queens and I really enjoyed the show. Thought provoking, entertaining, well produced, great music choice, beautiful voice. We could also relate to the Circle Fatigue... Thank you.

Maroula • Attended March 15, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

Awesome performance - just a pity with the venue ran out of wine glasses:)

Tamara • Attended March 15, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

It was a thought provoking experience. Well acted and well staged.

Bruce • Attended March 8, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

RED ROSES TO ALL INVOLVED. (Star ratings are irritating and meaningless to me.)

Saul • Attended March 6, 2014, 9 p.m.

Really enjoyed this twist on the tale of Snow White. Singing was wonderful too and a great choice of tunes!

Judy • Attended March 8, 2014, 9 p.m.
4.0

Phenomenal. Quite unexpected, very moving and relevant.