Keeping it in the family in Big Boys Don't Dance

Only nice things

From the moment that the lights fade in, Ash Searle and Bradley Searle are hilarious. If they don't leave you in stitches of laughter you will definitely be held in awe by some incredible dance moves. That's a promise from me and the full house of all ages that were bobbing their heads, howling with laughter, and simply absorbed by a story based on true events. Two real life brothers who play brothers while being directed by one wife is an interesting family affair. Brotherly love, wedding plans, and a car hijacking are played out with astounding spontaneity while divulging advice that works too. It sounds like I'm only saying nice things about this production, doesn't it? Well, there's nothing really bad to say; with the exception of one or two minor details, everything else is incredible.

Another award?

A little professional chatter now; Ash Searle is a technically trained dancer who has performed all over the world. While his theatrical performance bored me to death at times he had made up for his chore to just deliver lines with his well choreographed and remarkable dance moves. It is obvious this is where his forte lies. Bradley Searle is simply adorable, a vibrant actor who's got the moves too. He started his career at a young age and his experience really helps carry the play. Personally, I would like to see the visual personality of the director Vanessa Harris take to stage - she is also the wife of Ash Searle. She's done a great job as director and, as a team, they will be moving audiences of many cultures for many years to come.

Who knows this timeless piece, Big Boys Don't Dance, may go onto grabbing another award as they did at the 2010 National Art Festival, winning the Standard Bank Ovation Award.

Big Boys Don't Dance will be performed from 14 December until 8 January at the intimately quaint Kalk Bay Theatre, Cape Town.