A scene from the mesmerising new production, 'Behind The Crimson Door'.
Image: Joanna Pawelczyk
If you missed the unveiling of Gert-Johan Coetzee’s Spring/ Summer 2027 collection at the recent South African Fashion Week, there's good news.
You still have the opportunity to see his breathtaking designs in the new theatrical production, “Behind The Crimson Door”, at The Cirk.
A compelling narrative of courage, ambition, and the transformative power of pursuing one's dreams is delivered through this show, which seamlessly blends theatre, couture, aerial performance and powerful storytelling.
The performances, including aerial acts in 'Behind The Crimon Door', are mindblowing.
Image: Joanna Pawelczyk
At the heart of the tale is Charlotte, a young farm girl who aspires for something beyond the trappings of her rural life. As such, she is drawn to the big-city life, enchanted by the lights, temptations, and hope.
She starts her journey with a certain naivete, but this quickly transforms as the reality of danger and challenges in this world collides with her imagination and dreams.
As such, the journey centres on overcoming her internal anxieties and relentlessly pursuing the intense passion that motivates her.
Profound in its impact, it is also, in many ways, quite poetic.
The narrative deeply resonated with Coetzee on a personal level, which is why he was drawn to it.
Growing up on a farm in Koster, North West province, his current success was once merely an ambitious pipe dream.
And dominating global runways was a deep creative ache for the young boy, a vision that was yet to be realised.
“When you come from a small town, the world can feel incredibly big,” says Coetzee.
“Sometimes the dream itself becomes the scariest part. But I have learned that fear is often just the beginning of something extraordinary. When you find the courage to move forward and go after what you truly want, the world has a way of opening doors.”
This production, in essence, captures that very thing with breathtaking clarity.
“Every dream is a door,” he explains. “Fear may stand on one side of it, but courage is what allows you to walk through it. When you do, you often discover that the life you dreamed about was waiting for you all along.”
Director Joanna Pawelczyk added: “We’re very excited to bring Gert’s costumes to life – not only through visually striking dance and aerial acts, but also through compelling storytelling. We’re bringing lots of new elements to the stage so it’s really going to be a production like no other.”
Where: The Cirk, Cresta Shopping Centre.
When: Runs until June 14, 7pm.
Romeo & Juliet
William Shakespeare's enduring tragedy is being brought to the stage once more.
It revolves around Romeo and Juliet, two lovers whose families are engaged in a long-standing feud in the city of Verona. Determined to be together despite the hostility between the Montagues and the Capulets, the lovebirds take drastic actions to be together.
It culminates in a heart-wrenching and devastating conclusion. The production explores themes of love, fate and the consequences of unchecked hostility.
Where: The Lesedi at Joburg Theatre
When: Runs until April 30. Times vary.