DAMSEL IN DISTRESS (Standard Bank Ovation Award2021) starring Allison Hilstead as Griselda, aptly named after the Damsel in Distress in Chaucer’s Canterbury tales.
Griselda is a librarian who lives in the library – she has not left the building in a long, long time. She has long since traded life for the world of fiction. When faced with life’s little challenges she opts out with “No thank you, I will rather just read my book. I might not be an adventurer, but I am a librarian, and I am proud of it!” Griselda has become the ultimate arm chair traveller and she takes us on a journey to Florence in its heyday, the smoky cabaret stages of Berlin in the 1930 and New York …. if I can make it there, I can make it anywhere….
DAMSEL IN DISTRESS is funny, lighthearted with a twist in the tail and is sure to both inspire introspection and raise social awareness in a society that does not value woman.
PRODUCTION CREDITS
Written and directed by Amanda Bothma
Featuring Alison Hillstead (Vocals) & Nathan Johannisen (Piano)
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Amanda Bothma work has entertained East London audiences at the since her first break- through production of Bobaas in die Boendoe at the Guild Theatre in 1990 . Amanda Bothma received her Bachelor’s degree in Drama and Acting from the University of the Free State. In fall 2017 she enrolled at The Eugene O’Niell Theatre institute in Connecticut then in n 2021 she trained in the Chekov method under Mara Laduvic co-founder of the Michael Chekov Actors Studio Boston. Since then critically acclaimed work continued to follow, earning her a list of award winning productions including: A Star is Born – the rise and fall of Judy Garland, NEXT!!!, Damsel in Distress, The Story of
Eva Cassidy and Vincent -his quest to love and be loved
Nathan Johannisen graduated with a Bachelor of Music Degree at Stellenbosch University. His main instrument is piano, under the tutelage of Mr. Luis Magalhães, He also specialised in Music Education and is currently employed full-time at Merrifield Preparatory School and College in East London. Nathan was the musical director on several Wela Kapela production including Cinderella, Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat and Once on this Island.
Alison Hillstead was only 11 years old when her angelic voice landed her a part in Sound of Music. She has developed into a multi-faceted performer who is comfortable both on stage and in front of the camera. Performing in America, London and South Africa, Alison has featured as the ugly Step Mother in Cinderella, Potiphar wife in Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour Dream Coat and Papa Ge the demon of Death in Once on this Island. This award-winning cabaret artist is no stranger to the stage.
