The Mysteries & Yiimimangaliso at Garrick Theatre from 11 Sep to 3 Oct 2009

The Mysteries - Yiimimangaliso at Garrick Theatre from 11 Sep to 3 Oct 2009

A new production of The Mysteries - Yiimimangalis, the musical that has been seen by audiences of over 250,000 worldwide, will open at the Garrick Theatre on 15 Sep 2009, following previews from 11 Sep, running for a limited 25 performances to 3 Oct 2009.

Adapted and directed by British Director Mark Dornford-May and performed by the Cape Town based Isango Portobello Theatre Company, it is produced and presented by Eric Abraham. Musical direction is by Mandisi Dyantyis and Pauline Malefane, choreography by Lungelo Ngamlana, lighting by Mannie Manim, costumes by Leigh Bishop and Fagrie Nasiep and puppetry is by Aja Marneweck.

The Mysteries - Yiimimangalis is an African version of the English medieval Chester Mystery plays. These biblical stories - from the creation to the resurrection - are brought to life through songs, dance and drama.

The ensemble of 33 performers, playing characters from Adam and Eve to Cain and Abel, is led by South African 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.