Entertainer Barry Thomson will take the stage with other popular performers in the theatre production More Than a Feeling – a compilation of genuine, in-your-face, raw 1970s rock numbers – that opens tonight at the Heritage Theatre.
Joining him on stage are Dawn Selby, Richard Thompson, Mali Sewell, Fabian Mitchell and Eugene Havenga.
In an exclusive interview with Tonight, Thomson explained his favourite part of being involved in this production: “The most exciting part is to hear Dawn Selby playing her 1955 Hammond C3 organ. It’s got the most amazing sound! I get to share the stage with another guitarist and play songs by Boston and Thin Lizzy– a gift to any classic rock guitarist!”
The production features 25 much-loved rock hits –audiences can sit back and enjoy the tunes of Radar Love, Smoke on the Water, Whole Lot of Love and Boston’s More Than a Feeling.
It includes the music of such legendary rock bands as Pink Floyd, Cream Funk Railroad, Deep Purple and Bad Company.
With loads of experience in playing at various shows around KZN and the rest of SA, the highlight of Thomson’s career was breaking new ground with the production of The Guitar that Rocked The World at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre in 1999.
“People still talk about that show,” he said.
His biggest challenge in the theatre world is audience attendance.
“Sadly, due to tough economic times, roadblocks, HD TV and so on, we have a generation of ‘rather stay home’ people out there. It’s understandable, but it’s killing theatre.”
Giving some words of wisdom and encouragement to aspiring actors, Thomson said: “Audition wherever and whenever you can. You never know who is out there!
“Never let your vision be clouded by insignificant things. Keep your focus, stay disciplined, stay humble, listen and learn, and above all, maintain a good attitude.”
Audiences can expect a celebration of different rock tunes from the show.
”Expect your rock classics, like Stairway To Heaven, but expect a whole lot of new material that we’ve not played before, like Boston, Nazareth, The Strawbs, Heart, and Slade, to name a few. People will experience soaring vocals and guitar duos,” Thomson said.
“After all, this is ’70s rock music played by some of Durban’s finest musicians.
“Our band, The Reals, have a few surprises in store for the audiences. We are joined by guest guitarist Richard Thompson and guest Eugene Havenga.
“No shortcuts, great sound and great song choice.”
lMore Than A Feeling runs from July 3-29 at the Heritage Theatre in Hillcrest, Shop 14 U, Heritage Lifestyle Centre, 9 Old Main Road. Tickets cost R165 for Tuesday dinner and Sunday lunch and R195 Wednesday to Saturday, including a delicious two-course meal. Limited seating available. For information, call 031 765 4197 or visit www.heritagetheatre.co.za