Over the years we have heard of Dorothy Parker’s work being adapted around the world: France, Ireland, Sweden, Wales, and more. For the first time, we have learned of a show in South Africa. The performance is written and performed by Emily Child in Cape Town. “Gone Dottie” is a one woman show, and the recent graduate of the University of Cape Town has played “Five Questions” with us to tell us about it.
Why do you think Dorothy Parker’s work is relevant in today’s world?
Dorothy’s stories are about relationships – love and loneliness and loss. That kind of subject matter will never lose its relevance and importance. Dottie’s sense of humour makes these themes universally accessible. Everyone has “been there” at some stage of their lives.
Why will audiences be drawn to Parker’s material and what she has to say?
Well… it’s funny! I think that’s a pretty big draw-card. Obviously, being Dorothy, there is a darkness and a sadness that undercuts a lot of her humour but that’s where the greatest comedy lies – in truth. I think audiences appreciate her truth. Dottie certainly tells it like it is. I know that’s something I look for in a show.
What stories are you adapting in your show?
We have adapted 5 stories – Sentiment, But the One on the Right, The Garter, A Young woman in Green Lace and A Telephone Call.
Are there a lot of Parker fans in Cape Town?
To be honest, I’m not so sure but I hope so! Or at least.. I hope that by the time “Gone Dottie” is finished there are many many more!
What is the venue your show is being presented, and what will audiences see? Film clips are part of it?
We are performing in the Arena Theatre on 37 Orange Street, Cape Town. It is a warm, intimate little space with a great bar and a happy atmosphere. Film clips are indeed included in the show… the audience gets little glimpses into the world that surrounds Dottie… a taste of the 1920’s in the glamorous detail that film has to offer. They get to actually see the lifestyle on which Dottie comments. One of her stories has even been converted into a silent movie – live, on stage! That’s not something that happens very often!
Thanks, Emily, and good luck with the show, and starting a chapter of the Dorothy Parker Society in Cape Town.
INFO: The show started this weekend and runs through November 15, Monday – Saturday. The show starts at 8PM. Tickets are R60. R45 for students, pensioners and block bookings (more than 10). The booking number: 0823341904. Emily says, “People can feel free to dress up 1920’s style! We want the whole evening to be an experience more than just a show!”