Durban actress Daisy Spencer brings to the stage her first self-written, directed and produced work, The P.A.R.C (The Performing Arts Rehabilitation Centre).
Co-written by Rory Booth, this production brings together the talents of two highly skilled performers, both with a natural flair for comedy.
The comedy musical takes a hilarious, yet witty look at the challenges of cracking it in the arts and entertainment field.
Melody (Spencer) is an aspiring artist who acts and sings. But because most jobs require you be a “triple threat” – act, dance and sing – she’s convinced that she is great at the latter, when in fact she’s extremely bad at it.
In a bid to get her to smell reality, her mother sends her to The P.A.R.C where, with the help of Dr. Doolilpersad (Booth), they begin a therapeutic process of helping Melody get over her denial. Whether she gets clarity regarding her career only time will tell. But the duo’s sessions will have you rolling with laughter.
A range of popular song parodies are very funny. Booth’s performance is admirable and his singing will have you in awe. Spencer’s gets into the skin of her character (partly based on her journey as a performer), her choreography is a treat to watch and her comedy and physicality really boost the character.
Though the show has a strong comedic slant, it also addresses issues faced by aspiring performers.
Kudos to Spencer for putting herself and her creativity out there. Hopefully this will be the start of more original work to come from her, she certainly has the talent to do so.
A show well worth catching in this, its final week, at the Seabrookes Theatre.
• The P.A.R.C runs at The Seabrookes Theatre until Sunday. For bookings, contact Ailsa Windsor at 083 250 2690.