Rose Red
The show is directed and produced by Pieter Bosch Botha, who was most recently seen in the critically acclaimed "Fully Committed" and Nicholas Spagnoletti's "Civil Parting". Musical direction is by the inimitable and multi-talented composer and musician, Dawid Boverhoff.
What the critics have said about Rose Red:
“Simpson is magnificent, giving a flawless performance as the queen…” – Lesley Stones, The Daily Maverick
* * * * “the combined talent of the three people involved adds powerful punch to this shining gem…sharp and witty…it’s the kind of show that has you smiling throughout.” – Diane de Beer, The Star Tonight
“fascinating…fresh and entertaining.” – Christina Kennedy, Business Day
“a layered, thought-provoking, witty and ultimately (and unexpectedly) moving examination of a well- known and much-maligned literary character…cleverly constructed stuff that never settles for the obvious, playing for laughs outlet (although there are many very funny moments).” – Bruce Dennill, The Citizen
"a touch of mad brilliance" - Artslink.co.za
"a treat....Simpson's Queen has got more edge.....a lot of fun....a deliciously dark romp" - Cape Times
"Rose Red packs as much laughter in the punchlines as you’d probably find in a production for kids. Light and darkness as a metaphor for life is used quite brilliantly. …really funny… Powerful." - Cape Argus
"Dianne Simpson was captivating….faultless" - City Press
Media & Reviews
Review of Rose Red by Eugene Yiga
Review of Rose Red by Steyn du Toit
Audience Responses
It was a wonderful production though you could tell the performer was hoarse from singing all week.
I very much liked the setting, both upstairs where it's small and intimate and downstairs where the bar and rest of the decor is nice. Staff were also friendly so well done. I thought the artist did a good performance and the little team worked quite well. felt that her voice did not always hit all the notes as well as I guess she would have like to hit them. quite a good show overall.
We both loved the show. Venue is great, food choice adequate & performance brilliant. Thank you for something unique for CT.
Great concept and script. Wonderful performance. I enjoyed it immensely.
Excellent production and great informal atmosphere. The distribution of tickets could be better organised or clearer for the benefit of new supporters
Such a great performance in a perfect venue.
We both loved the show. Venue is great, food choice adequate & performance brilliant. Thank you for something unique for CT.
Great concept and script. Wonderful performance. I enjoyed it immensely.
A very good actress with a beautiful voice.
Well thought out script and subject matter. Very well acted. I like this format of theatre because it is easy to really get into it; the length of the show and intimate space lends itself to that.
Very strong performance by lead actress and original show. Very enjoyable
Two fellow (sometimes evil) queens and I really enjoyed the show. Thought provoking, entertaining, well produced, great music choice, beautiful voice. We could also relate to the Circle Fatigue... Thank you.
Awesome performance - just a pity with the venue ran out of wine glasses:)
It was a thought provoking experience. Well acted and well staged.
RED ROSES TO ALL INVOLVED. (Star ratings are irritating and meaningless to me.)
Really enjoyed this twist on the tale of Snow White. Singing was wonderful too and a great choice of tunes!
Phenomenal. Quite unexpected, very moving and relevant.