Cape Town’s sizzling summer is heating up with the debut of ‘Celebrity Skin’, an intoxicating adult dance and theatrical dining experience.

• This new production promises to be an exhilarating blend of cabaret, dance, and immersive theatre.
• ‘Celebrity Skin’ is set to transport visitors into a world of seductive allure and raw artistic expression.
• The reception to ‘Celebrity Skin’ has been overwhelmingly positive, with audiences departing the show feeling exhilarated, surprised, and eager for more.
• Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.

At the center of ‘Celebrity Skin’ is The Janitor, portrayed by Charles Tertiens. This quirky and slightly nerdy character embarks on a journey through the underbelly of a cabaret theatre, weaving through encounters with an array of mysterious and fiery muses. Each performer he encounters brings out a different facet of his longing and creative inspiration, transforming The Janitor’s reality into a vivid, dreamlike world. As he moves through the show’s enchanting acts, the audience is drawn into his imagination, watching him sculpt a puppet inspired by the evocative, commanding personalities that surround him.

The performance evolves with each scene, moving from icy elegance to playful and mischievous energy, and ultimately crescendoing into a seductive finale that leaves a lasting impression. The atmosphere – dark, intimate, and drenched in rich lighting and moody set design – evokes an intoxicating sense of mystery and excitement that’s both entertaining and boundary-pushing.

Craig Leo, the creative force behind the show, drew inspiration from cinematic portrayals of powerful women, aiming to capture the complexity of femininity through dance and visual storytelling. Yet, instead of a straightforward narrative, Craig introduced the vulnerable male character as a counterpoint to the traditionally dominant male archetype, allowing audiences to explore the softer, more relatable side of masculinity in contrast to the powerful female muses.

‘Celebrity Skin’ also owes its name to a collaborative brainstorming session between Craig and the Figure of 8 choreographers, seeking a title that captured the show’s glamour and mystique. The result is a name that subtly hints at allure and celebrity culture, which Maverick’s Dancer Manager Viktoriya Smolyakova believes adds a layer of intrigue to the brand.

Bringing ‘Celebrity Skin’ to the Mavericks Revue Bar was no simple feat. Viktoriya shared that persuading club owner Shane Harrison to embrace the concept of dinner theatre required some convincing, but she saw the untapped potential. By merging theatre with Maverick’s established reputation for provocative entertainment, Viktoriya hoped to attract a more diverse audience, blending regular patrons with those drawn to the idea of sophisticated, immersive dining.

The show’s dynamic has succeeded in enticing a fresh wave of patrons and gives the club’s dancers an opportunity to showcase their astounding skills in a new light. Some dancers come from a theatrical background, while others are self-taught but equally talented. Working with choreographers Grant Van Ster and Shaun Oelf, the dancers bring an added layer of professionalism and artistry to the performance, proving that Mavericks is more than just a typical revue bar.

As the lead performer, Charles Tertiens finds himself amid an ensemble of highly athletic and skilled dancers, each showcasing strength and grace through complex routines involving poles, silks, and aerial hoops.

I’m thrilled to be performing in ‘Celebrity Skin’. The team has worked extremely hard to put together a fabulous piece of performance art, and it’s so unbelievably steamy. I’m lucky to be part of this exhilarating theatrical show.

// Charles Tertiens

Yet, it’s a role that requires him to push his limits to keep up with the cast, who bring high energy and intensity to every performance. Charles describes the experience as both challenging and deeply rewarding, with the cast’s camaraderie adding to the show’s seamless flow.

The chemistry between us elevates the intensity and allure on stage.

// Charles Tertiens

In addition to the captivating visuals and storyline, guests are treated to a carefully curated dining experience designed to complement the performance. The menu features options for every appetite, from small plates perfect for sharing to hearty main courses, including steaks, burgers, and an array of fresh sushi, prepared with premium Norwegian salmon.

Viktoriya hopes that the combination of immersive theatre and high-quality dining will leave patrons with a lingering impression of beauty, power, and mystery. As Viktoriya reflects on the impact of ‘Celebrity Skin’, she expresses hope that the success of this show could pave the way for more hybrid theatrical-dining experiences at Mavericks.

By blending dinner theatre with our unique entertainment, we’re drawing a broader audience and showcasing the creativity of our performers.

// Mavericks Dancer Manager, Viktoriya Smolyakova

Evidently, the show has not only attracted new visitors but has also strengthened loyalty among existing patrons. The artistry and meticulous attention to detail in ‘Celebrity Skin’ are apparent both on stage and behind the scenes. The production, helmed by award-winning choreographers Grant Van Ster and Shaun Oelf, and conceptualized by Craig Leo, is an ambitious endeavour, turning the venue into a space for extraordinary storytelling. When all the technical elements come together, the show becomes a living, breathing work of art, with every prop, every light, and every movement carefully choreographed to maximize audience engagement.

The dancers and performers come from diverse backgrounds, with some having formal training in circus arts, theatre, and contemporary dance, while others bring raw, self-taught talent to the stage. This blend of expertise gives ‘Celebrity Skin’ a dynamic edge, ensuring that each performance is fresh, riveting, and filled with new surprises.

‘Celebrity Skin’ will run from Wednesdays to Fridays, from 7pm to 9pm, until 30 November 2024, at Mavericks Revue Bar in Cape Town’s City Centre. Due to the venue’s popularity, it’s recommended that patrons take an Uber, as parking is limited. Ticket prices range from R300 to R600, including complimentary entrance to the venue after the show. Reservations can be made via Dineplan.

For those seeking a night that combines high-energy performance with a quality dining experience, ‘Celebrity Skin’ offers an unforgettable journey through fantasy and artistry, set against the vibrant backdrop of Cape Town’s nightlife.

Stand a chance to WIN with The Sandton Times.

Advertise on The Sandton Times today!

Head back to The Sandton Times Home Page for more stories.