DISNEY’S “THE MAGIC BOX” CONTINUES FAIRYTALE RUN

Disney’s The Magic Box recently extended its runs in Cape Town and Johannesburg. Cape Town so far has been well received by critics and audiences have responded with standing ovations for each performance. Featuring an all-South African cast, the show is now in its final weeks at Artscape, closing on Sunday, 10 November 2024 before moving to the Teatro at Montecasino in Johannesburg, opening on Friday, 22 November, and running through the holidays to end on Sunday, 5 January 2025.  To avoid disappointment, Disney fans are encouraged to book now at disneythemagicbox.com.  

Presented by Fever the leading entertainment discovery platform, together with Proactiv Entertainment and RGB, and produced by leading local promoter Showtime Management, in association with leading SA financial institution, First National Bank, Disney’s The Magic Box, developed in collaboration with Disney Theatrical Group, is a 90-minute stage musical that immerses the audience in an unprecedented theatrical adventure combining puppetry, elaborate costumes and projections in an innovative, large-scale staging. The show is a experience paying tribute to the art of animation and inviting the audience to reconnect with the legacy of Disney music through the stories, songs, and characters that have accompanied them through the different stages of their lives. Classic Disney songs merge into an iconic original score and the characters come to life through various theatrical techniques, magnificent choreography, and the voices and performances of a South African cast featuring 26 top-tier artists.

The response from audiences has ranged from enthusiastic to ecstatic. Arts writer Robyn Cohen, in her review on her website The Cape Robyn, called the production “…. a big fun show – sheer entertainment and escapism through the magic of Disney.” Netwerk24’s Rafiek Mammon stated: “It is a majestic musical theatre extravaganza with colourful costumes and sets.”

The piece appeals to fans of all ages. On Instagram, @TreasuresDenise raved: “It is an amazing show for young and old, with a talented cast of local performers who blew us away with their singing, dancing and well-timed funny moments!” Cape Town-based actress Shelley Meskin, writing on Facebook, agreed, saying, “Take your kids and celebrate the life of Walt Disney: we loved it!”

One of Disney’s enduring qualities is the deep connection its stories and characters have with people, and this stage extravaganza is the latest example of that. “We had such a good time! Wondering if we had more fun than the kids. Haha! What a truly remarkable musical. A thoroughly enjoyable night out,” said TV personality Jason Greer. “My wife and I found it delightful, and it brought back so many memories,” grinned Andre Du Toit, CEO of The Big Positive Guy. And on X, Cape Town This Month (@CTthismonth) told their followers, “Wow, what a magical evening at the world premiere of Disney's The Magic Box!”  

Facebook is filled with fabulous feedback: “I really enjoyed Disney’s The Magic Box at Artscape. The show brought back fond memories of my childhood. Seeing Mickey, Donald, Daisy, Minnie, Goofy and Pluto just cheered me up.” Charles Grey. “What a night filled with wonder, beautiful performances, dance and nostalgia. Perfect for the whole family!”  Frank Malaba “With a talented all-South African cast, amazing lighting and fabulous puppetry, the magic of Disney comes to life on the stage.” Funmama. “Disney’s The Magic Box – an unforgettable, magic experience! A must-see at Artscape. What a fabulous time we had!” Di Fincham. "A magical time was had at Disney’s The Magic Box. A great mix of the old classics and the newer stuff – it was fun to guess which song was coming up by the amazing sets they had designed.”  In The Loop With Coco

The show must end at Artscape on 10 November before travelling to Johannesburg for the Teatro season – a true gift for theatre lovers over the Festive Season! Disney’s The Magic Box is perfect for families with school-going children of 6 years and over (PG recommended). Be blown away by the innovative creativity, unique presentation, and wonderful magic of Disney on stage in a musical including excerpts from more than 75 songs from Disney films. For more information about the show, or to book your tickets, go to Disneythemagicbox.com.