Born with the talent to be funny and the gift to amuse, Philander is unique in his comic sensibility; his skill reaches far beyond instilling laughter and sharing jokes. He commands silence when he wants you to listen, just as he demands laughter that celebrates his genius.
Soli graciously puts his talent where his mouth is and turns thoughts into action in Taxi Nights; as Taxi Boss and Mother Hen he cradles new talent in a nest of creativity, where self-expression unites people.
Taxi Nights exhibits local talent at its best with guest performances on different nights by, amongst others, comedians Wayne McKay, Shimmy Isaacs, Eugene Mathews (our Taxi Spare Wheel and The golden-voiced Ronald Jones, a Taxi Discovery.
It not only shows that local talent is indeed "very lekker", but also proves that the talent is fuelled by passion; nothing beats its raw energy, which pulsates through the performers as well as the audience.
With shows like Taxi Nights (although the performers don't want to call it "theatre") it is clear that laughter is the best medicine and, although there's a mixture of comedy and some hard-hitting drama, it is the cackling that sustains its momentum and allows the injection of seriousness (dealing with important and relevant issues of abuse and social injustice) to flow gently through our minds.
When Philander takes to the stage during the second half, he unleashes his colourful chorus line of divas to dazzle the audience with his wit.
He parades some of his favourite female creations, including Rosie September from his early stand-up days, Banu from Woeskroes and the Nameless Wife from Hotnotsgot that he performed so successfully at The Women's Festival last year, as well as The Old Lady from the same show that reminds us to be conscious of love and sacrifice.
Philander does not need much to bring his favourite women to life; with the simple use of scarves, his vibrant creations burst to soulful life and offer entertainment that is too good not to see again or share with your friends.
You might not be aware of the Taxi Nights campaign or show on community television, but after watching the show, you will definitely want to hop on to this joyride that celebrates life, love and laughter.
Like good Cape wine, Taxi Nights is a pleasure to share with friends.
The doors at the Kalk Bay Theatre open at 6.30pm and seating is unreserved. The performance starts at 8.30pm. Guests can enjoy a two- or three course meal created by Kalk Bay Theatre's chef Hannah McMahon, with coffee and dessert served after the show. Tickets cost R85. A ticket plus two-course meal costs R235 or a ticket and three-course meal for R285. Enjoy a burger, dessert and the show for R165.
For all bookings and further information, go to www.kbt.co.za.
