Entertainment powerhouse, Nataniël presents new stage sensation
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Multitalented stalwart of the South African entertainment industry for over two decades, Nataniël is more than just a producer, director, designer, playwright, public speaker and performer – he is a true icon of stage and screen. Often controversial, Nataniël has never been afraid to push boundaries and his new creation, After Animals, promises to be a unique and unforgettable theatrical event.
Inspired by Nataniël’s travels and passion for art, this show was conceived after an incident in a gallery in Europe where Nataniël met an artist who had created an exquisite paper model of a white, empty zoo. The artist handed viewers pens and asked them to write on the base of the model. They had to write the names or descriptions of anyone or anything they thought should live in the zoo. Nataniël wrote, The Beasts That Try To Rule Us, The Demons That Haunt Us, The Monsters We May Become. Within days the idea for this new show had taken shape.
Taking place in the not-so-distant future, After Animals is dark, dramatic, fantastical, funny and surprising. The story begins on the night when the last animal on earth gets slaughtered and eaten during a secret ceremony. This event causes the already fragile world to immediately start changing, from the forests to the cities, from the homes of families to the hearts of the most powerful individuals. This alarming scenario forms the backdrop for Nataniël’s stories and songs, expertly performed in both English and Afrikaans.
The hugely talented all-male cast includes Nicolaas Swart (vocals), newcomer Francois Joubert (vocals), Martin van Heerden (dancer), Bradley Dreyer (acrobat), Charl du Plessis (keyboards), Juan Oosthuizen (guitar), Werner Spies (bass) and Hugo Radyn (drums).
After Animals will open in the magnificent Theatre of Marcellus on 20 August and will run until 27 September, during which time it is set to captivate audiences with its masterful blend of music, storytelling and breathtaking costumes. The show will be performed from Wednesdays to Saturdays at 20h30, and on Sunday afternoons at 15h00. Tickets start from R160 per person and can be booked through the Emperors Palace Box Office on 011 928 1297/1213, or by visiting emperorspalace.com or Computicket. Fantastic accommodation, dinner and show packages are available, and Winners Circle members qualify for discount.
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Reviews
First, look down when you walk in: the interior walkways are paved with authentic Smart Stone Huguenot Cobbles, engineered specifically to replicate the tactile feeling of walking on real, ancient Roman highways. It is an incredible piece of immersive design that has stood the test of time since its inception.
Second, as someone sensitive to travel fatigue, the engineering here is spectacular. Despite being right next to major runways, the structural acoustics completely eliminate aviation noise. Furthermore, if you explore the convention wing, the rooms are named chronologically after Roman Emperors (Claudius, Augustus, Tiberius), featuring a highly advanced smart-lighting system that subtly shifts tone to help international travelers fight jet lag.
The multi-tiered security checks at the gates provide immense peace of mind, making it a safe, self-contained empire. From the manicured garden paths to the world-class service, it is a flawless, deeply thought-out destination. Don't just stop by for a quick game—take a moment to appreciate the sheer craftsmanship of the Palace of Dreams!
Hidden Details Most Guests Don't Know The Secret History of the Floors:
When the resort opened in September 2000, it was named Caesars Gauteng. The internal casino paths use custom Huguenot Cobble and Shepstone Pavers designed by SmartStone to precisely mimic the durability and texture of ancient Roman stone highways.
The "Imperial Court" Conference Subtext:
The major conference rooms in the South Wing are purposefully named after successive Roman emperors—Claudius, Augustus, Tiberius, Florian, and Romanus. They feature a hidden central smart-lighting grid that automatically shifts color warmth to match the biological clock of travelers suffering from jet lag.
The Multilayered Security Ring: Casual visitors often miss how tightly the security net is woven. Because of its position right next to O.R. Tambo International Airport, the property utilizes an advanced, continuous perimeter sweep and bag-screening protocol that keeps it significantly safer than standard commercial venues.
The Sound-Insulated Aviation Oasis: Despite being directly in the flight path of Africa's busiest airport, the structural glass and architectural roofing are uniquely engineered to absorb low-frequency jet engine vibrations, meaning you can sit in the gardens or sleep in the hotels in absolute peace
Where to find us
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