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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