From famous to homeless to fearless! The musical memoir of Jervis Pennington is a truly original performance from a superb storyteller and world class songwriter with razor-sharp wit. 

“It’s a hellofa story!....and powerful songwriting.”  - David Kramer at the Cape Town Fringe

“Emotionally overwhelming… and Jervis should be in stand-up comedy!” - Robyn Cohen, The Cape Times

“Brilliant Leonard Cohen-esque style folk songs!” - Bruce Dennill, Radio Today

“Raw, brutally honest, inspiring and hilarious. The most unusual piece of theatre I have seen.” - Alexander Upstairs audience review

Jervis Pennington began his song writing career as lead-singer of his 80’s pop group The Soft Shoes. The group won the 1983 TV Talent Show 'Follow that Star' with their song 'Elvis Astaire', written by Jervis, which went to No 1 on several radio stations. The group sold over 100,000 records. Later, as General Manager of EMI’s South African music label, CCP Records, he managed the careers of artists such as Brenda Fassie. After writing the songs and scripts for several successful musical theatre productions, this show sees a return to pop. Several of the songs from this show are being recorded by Jervis' new recording outfit The Capetonians with Jervis acting as writer and producer whilst using several singers born and bred in Cape Town (as is he!).

Praise for Jervis's work:

Audience Responses

Outstandingly brilliant performance of a nostalgic life lived.

Funny, sad, poetic and honest. I was mesmerized by the storytelling both through Jervis’ raw anecdotes and his singing.

Show was great, we really enjoyed it. Music was lovely

A nostalgic trip in the company of an extraordinary man. Thank you for sharing your journey with us Jervis and thank you Nic for arranging this opportunity!

Profound. Extraordinary. Brave.

An old man with a young voice! What a wonderful heart warming evening. Thank you.

Amazing show, so raw and authentic. Jervis is an actor of great skill and as an actress I hope one day to be at that level!

Thoroughly enjoyed it.

I loved the show, spoke to my heart.

It was an extraordinary show. I was swept up by it. Review to follow very shortly on Weekend Special.

A good show - poignant and very funny in places. Jervis is a brilliant entertainer. The show was well scripted. At times his voice wasn't completely audible and I couldn't follow. Very well worth seeing! Well done.

I left feeling I didn't really know much of his story, which was strange as the show is about his life. Great songs and storytelling at times.

Excellent poetic and musical performance. Really touched me deeply.. I wish everyone could see this show.

Disturbing. Authentic. Soulful songs

Funny, sad, poetic and honest. I was mesmerized by the storytelling both through Jervis’ raw anecdotes and his singing.

Awesome message Great lyrics and performance.

I am not going to rate the show as I know Jervis too well. We have been friends since about 1962. I do applaud the idea of showcasing events like this.

4 for the Show afraid we didn't hear 100% don't know he he remembered all those lines.

What a brilliant show. Unexpectedly inspirational. It deserves to go on to be seen by a broader audience

Outstanding, Personal, Heartwarming, Encouraging. Deep.

Talented, honest, warm-hearted and wise. The performance was a gift. Thank you.

We thought Jervis has an authentic riveting act. His song writing is cutting with personal life exposure. Guitar playing masterful melodious. Sensitive direction of his raconteur style. We were informed entertained emotionally drawn in and left with probing thoughts. A genuine class act!

I found the show extra ordinary..and moving. The message of hope was amazing. As Capetonians we are surrounded by homelessness, this show gives one an inside view....but it is the overwhelming positive and down to earth lifelessons that make this show

Delighted that Jervis has this platform to showcase his talent and his extraordinary journey. We departed in deep reflection and gratitude, wishing Jervis a comfortable and peaceful night. He can hold his head up high! 🕺

Jervis held me captivated from the get go, I first felt a little unsettled about him but he has the capacity to keep you hanging onto his softly spoken lyrical words and guitar playing, alternating from funny to serious. It is certainly a show that lingers on in your mind afterwards.

Absolutely excellent production!

Show was great, we really enjoyed it. Music was lovely

Very powerful and deeply moving. I would recommend people see it.

Authentic, original, entertaining

A well-deserved standing ovation! Respect for the performer's raw and poetic portrayal.

Excellent... Jervis shares his story in an honest, bare-bones way with courage and love. A beautiful experience for the audience.

A good show - poignant and very funny in places. Jervis is a brilliant entertainer. The show was well scripted. At times his voice wasn't completely audible and I couldn't follow. Very well worth seeing! Well done.

A well-deserved standing ovation! Respect for the performer's raw and poetic portrayal.

Jarvis is such a credible story teller. Very moving with humour and guitar to compliment this heart-warming true story.

Delighted that Jervis has this platform to showcase his talent and his extraordinary journey. We departed in deep reflection and gratitude, wishing Jervis a comfortable and peaceful night. He can hold his head up high! 🕺

Delighted that Jervis has this platform to showcase his talent and his extraordinary journey. We departed in deep reflection and gratitude, wishing Jervis a comfortable and peaceful night. He can hold his head up high! 🕺