Seatavern

The picturesque coastal village of Pringle Bay will transform into a sophisticated French bistro on Saturday, 8 November, when acclaimed performer Godfrey Johnson presents his critically celebrated one-person show “The Shadow of Brel” for one extraordinary evening only.Starting at 7pm, this exclusive performance combines delicious bistro food with world-class entertainment in an intimate home setting limited to just 15. The evening begins with a cocktail, French bistro-style buffet dinner with wines and vegan options, followed by Johnson’s masterful interpretation of the legendary Jacques Brel’s most beloved songs as candlelight sets the mood for an unforgettable theatrical experience. The menu includes French onion soup; Cassoulet - a hearty chicken, bacon and sausage bean stew; vegan Ratatouille; vegan mushroom Bourguignon; and, to end, a luscious chocolate mousse with a vegan alternative.

A Master of His ArtJohnson, who has been nominated for seven Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards throughout his distinguished career, brings both passion and sensitivity to Brel’s emotionally charged repertoire. His one-person show “The Shadow of Brel,” directed by Sanjin Muftic, earned him a Fleur du Cap nomination and showcases his remarkable interpretations of Jacques Brel’s timeless songs.“Johnson takes command of the music and his audience from the opening bars,” noted one reviewer, describing how the performer creates goosebumps with his powerful renditions. The evening’s programme will feature beloved Brel classics including “The Middle Class,” “Song for Old Lovers,” “If You Go Away,” “Amsterdam,” and “Carousel” – each delivered with the sensitivity and passion these emotionally complex songs deserve.Following the formal performance, Johnson will take special requests from the audience, showcasing his remarkable versatility and gift for interpretation that has made him a standout figure in South African theatre.

Musical Theatre VirtuosoBeyond his cabaret work, Johnson is recognised as a consummate musical theatre artist who serves as composer and musical director for legendary satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys. He has written numerous musicals and is currently directing the play “Kruger” for the Foxwood festival, demonstrating his multi-faceted talents as performer, composer, and director.His recent show “VASLAV,” directed by acclaimed theatre director Lara Bye, earned him multiple nominations, whilst his other celebrated productions include “Flirting with Coward” and “The Minnie and Johnson Show.” This impressive body of work demonstrates his range from classical interpretations to contemporary musical theatre.

An Unforgettable Evening"The music of Brel is emotional – it’s sadness delivered with humour, love interwoven with pain, the pathos of yearning and loss," explains one critic. Johnson’s approach to these songs has been praised for transforming even familiar material, with reviewers noting his ability to create “goosebumps within two bars” whilst bringing his special touch to both arrangements and interpretations.Whether audiences are discovering Brel’s music for the first time or are longtime admirers, Johnson’s performance offers fresh insights into these timeless songs. His talent for handling intensely emotional material with both sensitivity and theatrical flair has established him as a master interpreter of sophisticated musical repertoire.This rare opportunity to experience world-class cabaret in an intimate coastal setting promises to be one of the cultural highlights of the year. With Johnson’s proven talent for creating magical theatrical moments and the enchanting backdrop of Pringle Bay, “The Shadow of Brel” offers an evening of sophisticated entertainment that won’t soon be forgotten.