The Mysteries - Yiimimangaliso

A new production of The Mysteries – Yiimimangaliso, the musical that has been seen by audiences of over 250,000 worldwide, will return to London for twenty five performances.  Adapted and directed by British director Mark Dornford-May and performed by the Cape Town based Isango Portobello Theatre Company, The Mysteries - Yiimimangaliso is produced and presented by Eric Abraham.  Musical direction is by Mandisi Dyantyis and Pauline Malefane, choreography is by Lungelo Ngamlana, lighting is by Mannie Manim, costumes are by Leigh Bishop and Fagrie Nasiep and puppetry is by Aja Marneweck.

The Mysteries - Yiimimangaliso is an African version of the English medieval Chester Mystery plays.  These timeless biblical stories - from the creation to the resurrection - are brought to life through exhilarating songs, dance and intense drama.  The ensemble of 33 performers, playing characters from Adam and Eve to Cain and Abel, is led by South Africa’s award-winning performer Pauline Malefane playing God and Jesus.  The score comprises vocal traditions found in South Africa and the all black cast perform in English, Xhosa, Afrikaans, Tswana and Zulu.

The Isango Portobello Company was formed by South African-born, British based, Producer Eric Abraham and British born South African based Director Mark Dornford-May.  The company, believed to be the largest black theatre company in the world has toured internationally from Dublin to Tokyo.

Last the year the Isango Portobello Company won the Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival for the their sell-out Young Vic and Duke of York’s run of The Magic Flute.  Prior to its limited West End season, this new production of the The Mysteries – Yiimimangaliso will debut at the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town from 17 June – 5 July and following the run at the Garrick Theatre, the Company will travel to the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris for a two week run of The Magic Flute – Impempe Yomlingo from 8 October.

The Mysteries at the Garrick Theatre from 11 September to 3 October, 2009, 7.30pm.
Venue: Garrick Theatre, Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0HH

Ticket: all previews £20 and £25 then £20 - £45 plus concessions
Box Office: 0844 412 4662