Call for auditions: Tsotsi, the Musical

The musical will be directed by award-winners Neil Coppen and Khayelihle Dominique Gumede.

Apart from the 10 supporting roles, there will also be an ensemble of eight to 10 performers who will portray a number of characters. Those who want to audition should be strong actors, singers and dancers.

Tsotsi, the Musical will premiere at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town on 7 February 2018. Rehearsals will take place in Cape Town from 11 to 22 December and again from 8 January 2018 until opening night.

For artists residing outside of Cape Town, the Cape Town Opera is will be able to offer the following:

• Two return economy class air tickets between Johannesburg and Cape Town for the two rehearsal periods, or the cash equivalent of R2500 per return trip.
• No accommodation will be provided but a R260 daily allowance in lieu of accommodation is offered.

The Tsotsi story gained international fame with the 2005 film of the same name that was directed by Gavin Hood and produced by Peter Fudakowski. The film won the 2006 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and was nominated for the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film in the same year. The movie soundtrack features music performed by popular South African kwaito artist Zola. The score is by Mark Kilian and Paul Hepker featuring the voice of South African protest singer and poet Vusi Mahlasela.

Set in a Johannesburg slum, the film tells the story of Tsotsi, a young street thug who steals a car only to discover a baby in the back seat.

With music composed by Zwai Bala and lyrics written by Mkhululi Mabija, the upcoming musical is an adaptation of the novel Tsotsi by legendary South African playwright, author, actor and director Athol Fugard.

For character descriptions, further audition information and to book an audition slot, contact RoyH@capetownopera.co.za.