1999: The Ultimate Prince Experience
Digital Programme
ABOUT THE SHOW
The genius, innovation and grandeur of the one and only Prince – this immersive stage show experience pays tribute and reverence to one of the greatest musical pioneers of our time.
Dedicated live performances from talented multi-instrumentalist Dale Ray on vocals, guitar and piano, are a fitting commemoration in this world-class production that evokes the wondrous and quixotic realm of Prince – his music, his art, his vision.
Expect a sensory spectacular created with a world-class 8-piece band, bespoke costuming and production, and a raft of iconic songs – Purple Rain, When Doves Cry, Kiss, 1999, Little Red Corvette, Raspberry Beret, Diamonds and Pearls, Cream, The Most Beautiful Girl in the World, Let’s Go Crazy! and more.
MEET DALE RAY
Dale began his musical journey in South Africa at the age of five, teaching himself the piano until he was able to attend the Hosanna Music School at aged 15 to receive formal training. Here, Dale was able to complete practical piano exams in conjunction with musical theory at the Royal Schools. In 2009, Dale attended The Campus of Performing Arts where he graduated with a higher diploma in music performance and music production.
After completing his formal studies, Dale joined the Showtime team as a keyboardist, vocalist, saxophonist and musical director in 2011. Since then, Dale has performed hundreds of shows with Showtime across the globe and with many different productions.
Dale has also had the opportunity to have an extensive catalogue of cross training within the performing arts industry. In 2014, Dale stepped into the musical theatre realm and has since been cast in a many number of musicals and pantomimes (including those by famous South African writer Janice Honeyman). In addition, Dale has worked as a band leader, and musical director for musicals and pantomimes across South Africa.
With this wealth of knowledge, Dale also owns the company Dale Ray Productions. Dale utilised this company to head up music ventures for numerous corporate events and theatre shows. He has also been able to utilise his skill as a multi-instrumentalist, musical director and arranger through Dale Ray Productions to assist artists, choirs, schools, theatres and production companies all across South Africa
Some highlights of Dale’s career include: performing in Abdullah Ibrahim’s Youth Orchestra, co-writing Penelope Pixie’s Birthday Adventure (musical), being nominated for a Durban Theatre Award, performing with Gath Taylor, musically directing The Color Purple.
Dale is thrilled to be taking you on this journey through some of Prince’s biggest hits in 1999: The Ultimate Prince Experience.
CAST
LEAD VOCALIST (as Prince), GUITAR, KEYS & SYNTH
Dale Ray
GUITAR
Pieter-David Du Plessis
KEYS
Mfundo (Scales) Mbuli
DRUMS
Travis Johnston
BASS
Thembelihle Ndimande
BACKING VOCALISTS
Zamagambu (Xae) Memela
Ayanda Mpama
CREW
PRODUCER/DIRECTOR
Johnny Van Grinsven
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Clasina Van Grinsven
MUSICAL DIRECTOR
Travis Johnston
CHOREOGRAPHER
Nathan Adriaanse
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Jono Van Grinsven
LIGHTING OPERATOR
Jack Hopper
FOLLOWSPOT OPERATOR
John Hopper
AUDIO ENGINEER
Jono Van Grinsven
STAGE MANAGER
Shanice Johnston
COMPANY MANAGER
Ben Hopper
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