Saturday Star News

Ashley Dowds stars in revival of Paul Slabolepszy’s 'Elvis du Pisanie' at Theatre on the Square

Saturday Star Reporter|Published

See Ashley Dowds in Paul Slabolepszy’s 'Elvis du Pisanie' revival this April.

Image: Supplied

The revival of Paul Slabolepszy’s Elvis du Pisanie opens at Theatre on the Square from April 14, featuring Ashley Dowds. The memorable narrative “moves from pure nostalgia, through extreme heartache, to unbridled joy,” said the theatre.

The story follows Eddie du Pisanie, a forty-nine-year-old East Rand salesman who is retrenched and decides life is no longer worth living. Desperate and alone in his car, he switches on the radio. The Elvis Presley song he hears does more than take him back 30 years – it recalls an event in his childhood that changed his life forever. Can we change our own destinies? “Elvis” du Pisanie is about to find out.

After rave reviews on his South African theatre tour, renowned talent and well-known face on television and film, Ashley Dowds, is delighted to be back at Theatre on the Square. He is remembered for performances in productions such as Hard Love by Mottie Lerner, Soil by Renos Spanoudes, Old Boys by Anthony Akerman, and Blue Orange by Joe Penhall.

Performances will take place nightly from April 14 until May 3 – from Tuesdays to Fridays at 7.30pm, at 5pm and 8pm on Saturdays, and on Sundays at 3pm. Tickets are available via Webtickets or through the theatre’s box office at 011 883 8606 or 083 377 496. Ticket prices are R200 for adults and R180 for students and pensioners.

Rave reviews for the production include:

“Dowds performance is electrifying, and Paul Slabolepszy's script remains as sharp and relevant as ever! Don't miss this chance to see a South African gem brought to life by a truly amazing actor! Highly recommended!”  - Georg Knoke

“I am always thrilled to experience the exceptional work of Paul Slabolepszy. The return of Elvis Du Pisanie’s play captivated my imagination with the mesmerizing charm of a streetlight. Without a doubt, Ashley Dowds is a world-class talent. The play was truly remarkable.” - Leon van Nierop

“Compelling, funny, tender and bold. And ultimately, uplifting. An exceptional revival.” - Anne Williams

The production will be staged at Theatre on the Square in Sandton. More information is available at www.theatreonthesquare.co.za