South Africa’s Isango Ensemble is back at the New Victory Theater with special limited-engagement performances of Aesop’s Fables. I got to see Isango Ensemble several years ago with their award-winning production of The Magic Flute and was blown away by their talent and creativity. This time their inventiveness will be showcased with their fresh take on the timeless fables set as a contemporary opera in a dazzling performance.
Sung through in English and a mix of Xhosa, Tswana and Zulu languages, this youth-oriented opera features a soaring live score of marimba music inspired by gospel and traditional African song.
This opera for young audiences revisits classic stories and valuable lessons like “where there’s a will there’s a way” and “look before you leap.” Colorful costumes and enthralling dance tell the tale of how Aesop escapes his master and embarks on a journey to Mount Olympus. Lauded by Sir Ian McKellen and Archbishop Desmond Tutu for reinventing classic stories within a South African setting, Isango Ensemble brings an energetic, playful charm to Aesop’s Fables.
“Isango Ensemble is different; it is unique, producing work of international standards, linking high art to the lives of its astonishing performers,” said Isango Ensemble Patron Sir Ian McKellen. “The future of Isango is important not just to its company members but to South Africa and to the world beyond.”
The show is 70 minutes with no intermission and is recommended for kids ages 7 and up.
When: Friday 11/1/19 at 7 pm
Saturday 11/2/19 at 2 pm
Saturday 11/2/19 at 7 pm
Sunday 11/3/19 at Noon
Sunday 11/3/19 at 5 pm
Where: The New Victory Theater
209 West 42nd Street, Between 7 &8 Avenues, NYC
Price: $17 and up
To Purchase Tickets click here. To purchase by phone call (646) 223-3010. Box office is open Sunday & Monday 11am-5pm; Tuesday-Saturday 12pm-7pm
Photos by Keith Pattison
I was not compensated for this post. I received tickets to the show.
Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is a freelance writer and has written for several blogs, including The Huffington Post. She has been living in the New York City area for nineteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids, ages 12, 10 and 7.
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