MEGAN MUTHEN
Entertainer Theshan Naicker will be presenting his first pantomime production, Sunda-rella, at the Globe at Suncoast on October 29.
The show, which features his alter ego, Aunty Sheila, draws inspiration from Naicker’s favourite fairy tale, Cinderella, but with an Indian twist.
“The difference with Sunda-rella is that it is about women empowerment. Sunda-rella makes it very clear that she doesn’t need to be saved from a Prince Charming because she can save herself.”
Naicker was inspired to create this story for his two nieces, aged 11 and 7, who are very important to him.
“In every fairy tale it seems the princess has to be saved and that her future happiness is reliant on this young prince saving the day. I wanted to change the narrative to a different story for my nieces.”
He said it was initially difficult to marry the two characters – Aunty Sheila and Cinderella – and get the message of independent women across.
However, he promised a big show that is very different from his previous comedy sketches.
“There will be elaborate costumes, some of which are being sought from India; a choreographer and set designer; as well as a cast of 30 people, from dancers to extras.
“I was interested in the story because it means so much to me. It will offer a magical and beautiful experience.”
The show features Aunty Sheila in the role of Sunda-rella with Nadia Krause as the Evil Stepmother, as well as Sheena Ramathour and Chrisantha Pillay as the Stepsisters, Berenice Mundri as the Fairy Godmother and Ashish Misra playing Prince Charming.
Tickets are available at Computicket.
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