Domestic violence, gangsterism and drug abuse are the main themes of the critically acclaimed hit musical, Danger in the Dark, and the support of the City of Cape Town’s Arts and Culture Branch has made it possible for the production to reach more audiences.

David Kramer’s Danger in the Dark, a reworking of the hit musical Poison, which he and the legendary late Taliep Petersen wrote in the 1990s and which was produced by Renaye Kramer, is currently on at the Baxter Theatre for a limited season until 2 November. It plays daily at 7.30pm with Saturday matinees at 2pm.

‘The City has partnered with the Baxter Theatre to bring the production to the stage as we are invested in supporting South African theatre works aimed at connecting with real-life issues that impact on many of Cape Town’s communities.

‘Our communities are plagued by gangs, domestic violence and drug abuse which makes the timing of this production perfect and necessary. It’s a production which resonates with us all, as these are the very issues the City is working hard to address,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

Poison was very well received in South Africa, Malaysia and London and with this reworked version of the powerful musical, Kramer has decided to tell the story from the point of view of Pamela, a social worker who is writing her thesis on drug abuse in the Cape Flats.

Kramer has written a new book for Danger in the Dark but has retained many of the original songs. He has assembled a stellar creative team and cast of eight lead performers with a chorus of 14, who dance, sing and play a variety of roles, accompanied by a live band of five musicians.

The story is set in 1995 on the Cape Flats when Pamela meets up with Juanita, a friend from her school days. Soon she realises that Juanita is trapped in an abusive relationship with a drug lord and she is desperate to help her friend escape. Pamela is drawn into dark and dangerous places and situations, yet she pursues against all odds, for the safety and survival of her friend.

‘Danger in the Dark reflects not only what communities and families are going through, but also shines a light on the hope of those who work in these areas and who are determined to make a difference. Theatre productions like these can only impact our lives positively,’ added Councillor Badroodien.

Source: City Of Cape Town