Magic returns to Joburg Theatre

12 January 2016

 

Queen – It’s A Kinda Magic (QIAKM) is just the magic theatre-goers need to kick-start the new year.

 

The internationally acclaimed production – based on performances of the famed Queen musical band led by the now deceased Freddy Mercury – returns to The Mandela’s Stage at the Joburg Theatre on Thursday January 14 and runs at the majestic venue until Sunday February 7.

The last time the musical was performed at the theatre – in 2009 – it was sold out. The show is the theatrical creation of the very best of Queen Live in Concert, delivering the whole Queen experience. Brought to Johannesburg by Showtime Australia, the show is again expected to be performed before packed audiences as its promoters seem to have perfected the art of pleasing Jozi theatre-goers. Last year they wowed crowds with the incredible Whitney Houston Show.

Queen – It’s a Kinda Magic attracted the attention, endorsement and eventual involvement of Peter Freestone, Mercury’s best friend, neighbour, biographer and personal assistant of 12 years. After reviewing the show while in Singapore in 2007, Freestone was highly impressed and duly contacted promoter John van Grinsven to convey his compliments.

A friendship ensued and Freestone now tours with QIAKM when his schedule allows, acting as a production consultant for the show as well as signing autographs and chatting with Queen fans.

Englishman Giles Taylor will spearhead Mercury’s role with the support of Australians Richie Baker as Brian May on guitar, Kyle Thompson as Roger Taylor on drums and South Africa’s Steven Bennett as John Deacon on bass.

“I’ve not seen another show in the world do it better,” says Freestone.

The musical features more than 20 original Queen hits, including We Will Rock You, Bohemian Rhapsody, Fat Bottom Girls, We Are the Champions, Another One Bites The Dust, Killer Queen, A Kind of Magic, Radio Ga Ga, Don’t Stop Me Now, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, Play the Game, I Want to Break Free and Who Wants to Live Forever.

Ticket prices range from R160 to R350 and are available by visiting www.joburgtheatre.com or calling 0861 670 670. For group bookings of 10 or more, please contact the theatre directly on (011) 877 6853/6815.