How long has it been since a night of dinner and a show kept you out past midnight, leaving you completely energised and wishing the evening would never end?
That is exactly the feeling you carry away with you after experiencing “The Royal Countess Zingara” at Melrose Arch.
It is an absolutely magical and mind-blowing experience that completely indulges all of your whimsical senses.
Honestly, the “La Dolce Royal” iteration transported me to the first time I attended the show over a decade ago.
Richard Griffin deserves immense praise for his stunning reimagining of the iconic Spiegeltent, where the attention to detail is truly extraordinary.
He has masterfully set the stage for an experience filled with jaw-dropping awe, fun and fantasy.
Comprising three captivating acts, the production opens with the Weeping Woman. This initial sadness is beautifully swept away by jubilation as the Timekeeper/ Sandman leads fellow “Zingarians” through mind-blowing feats, catchy singing and unparalleled theatrical splendour.
With Craig Leo and Valentina Leo sharing the artistic director’s hat, the audience is treated to stupefying acts that leave you on tenterhooks.
Next up on stage are Jamie Swan and Beata Surmiak, who elevate hand-balancing to spectacular new heights. First of all, he looks like an absolute Adonis up there – just saying. But together, these two effortlessly glide across the stage, a seamless fluidity they remarkably maintain even when they return on roller skates.
The excitement continues unabated as Jenny le Roux (SA) captivates with her dazzling rope aerial display, and Axel Perez (Las Vegas/ Mexico) leaves the audience breathless with anticipation during his intense rolla bolla act.
Also shining brightly were Argentina’s cradle trapeze artists, Juan Pablo Palacios and Victoria Perez Iacono, who captivated the audience with their stunning performance.
Contortionist Lunga Buthelezi proved to be a massive favourite among the crowd, leaving everyone completely speechless with her extraordinary nimbleness.
Another performance that truly deserves a round of applause is Tatiana Babiy (Ukraine) with her feather balancing act. The level of concentration required to execute this feat is absolutely insane, yet she stayed completely calm under the pressure of so many piercing gazes.
Thankfully, the audience played their part by maintaining total silence until the very end, when they finally erupted into loud cheers and thunderous applause.
Music is a vital component of the performance, and Megan Spencer and Cape Town’s The Clorettes – comprising Edith Plaatjies, Andrea Anthony, Brandon Jonathan, and Naz Leeman – truly excelled. They delivered infectious melodies that got the audience on their feet and clapping along enthusiastically.
Don’t be alarmed when you get a visit by a magician, several scantily-clad hotties or Kevin Ellis, who is the character supervisor, pouring a shot straight from the bottom.
As the Timekeeper/ Sandman, Andile Magxaki delivered an exceptionally charismatic performance, infusing his banter with a dash of naughty playfulness.
Turning our attention to the cuisine, compliments to the chef for serving beautifully plated, piping hot, and delectable dishes. For those wondering, the famous chilli chocolate steak remains firmly on the menu. The selection also caters well to vegetarians, and the salmon dish earned unanimous praise from everyone at our table.
The incredibly efficient and prompt service in serving and clearing away the courses was highly commendable. It was an exceptionally slick operational setup.
Expect a lively, festive atmosphere enhanced by cheerful waitstaff, so there’s no need to be startled by their playful energy.
By the way, the dance floor closes at midnight, so don’t rush off after the show. Make a night of it.
Where: Melrose Arch.
When: Runs until December, 7.30pm. There’s plenty of safe parking at the venue.
