It is difficult to put in words exactly what to expect from the upcoming scintillating, below the belt teaser called Doo Bee Boobies, which will be unraveling itself at the Fringe Theatre (in the Joburg Theatre complex) from 5 August. In so doing it will let all and sundry (and I mean ALL and sundry) hang out.
Thrill & Tickle
Doo Bee Boobies is sure to thrill as it will tickle more than just one’s funny bone through raunch; over sequined and ill-fitting sheaths and gowns; wigs and drag make-up; ‘high drama’; quick and wicked dialogue; crotch straining choreography; and live singing (no lip syncing here folks)!
‘Yes, it is rude and obnoxious, obstinate and full of sexual innuendo,’ states Tony Bentel, who by day is an established and respectable architect, husband, father and damn good pianist.
The Stripper
I do not recognise Mr. Bentel (the stripper) who is in the midst of rehearsal with his stage partners as he comes over to greet me in hideously red scuffed high heels and a gold ‘boob tube’ number with matching crepe shawl and wig fused with gold and brown highlights.
In fact, upon entering the rehearsal room, I am greeted by a gaggle of four (Steven van Niekerk is absent) – each in their own singular way stuffed into heels and gaudy garb like a bunch of force-fed ducks readied for a fate worse than fois gras! Another unforgettable sight is Isidingo’s Barker Haines (established actor, Robert Whitehead) morphed from butch villain to buxom villainess with pursed lips and size 13 stilettos!
Over-the-top Revue
This is a show born over sixteen years ago out of sheer boredom. Whilst David Lee, Anton van Niekerk and Mark Hawkins were on the road doing Okalahoma, they came up with the idea of this over- the- top revue. Whitehead was roped in to direct the original show and do a few numbers.
‘This is not a show of female impersonators, but a true drag show,’ remarks Bentel. ‘It’s men in drag. You see the hairy legs, the boops – everything; and we sing live and are properly choreographed by Mark Hawkins and dancer extraordinaire (not only his fancy footwork darlings – I can assure you!), Ebrahim Medell.’
And Steven van Niekerk (‘Carter’ from Snitch) is also part of the luscious cast of lushes. We are told Steven may just bare all on stage!
Rude Parody
Among the numbers and farcical parodies: a Swan Lake piece (which is sure to be very memorable), and Cat’s ‘Memory’ (how true the lyrics, I was beautiful then, should ring!)
‘The show is rude’, says Whitehead. ‘There is sex, and we are not ashamed that our figures are not the best in town. It’s a parody and it’s lots of fun.’
Mark remarks how hard it has been returning to the show after sixteen years, doing the choreography, costume changes and singing.
‘You have no idea what it’s like to be scurrying around in heels and ridiculous clothing and wigs!’ he exclaims.
Wide Acclaim
The show, according to the ‘ladies’, has enjoyed worldwide acclaim from
I pause momentarily and look up at the four faces looking back down at me and realise this is going to be one helluva show indeed!
Professional Ensemble
Something to bear in mind is that this ensemble is made up of respected and professional actors/ musicians. Though the theme is farcical and silly, you can be assured of sheer professionalism by seasoned performers who know an audience and how to put on a decent show.
When I asked what the show’s message (if any!) could be, the answer is stated quite emphatically: If there was ever something you had an issue about – get over it…
And it certainly seems this show will help you do just that.
