The Royal Hotel’s Backstage Theatre opens its 2001 season on February 27 with a new cabaret show I Feel a Song Coming On which is due to run until March 24.

Starring Vanessa Skaer and Darren King, I Feel a Song Coming On is a cabaret offering simple choreography with a touch of comedy, several props and costume changes. The singers will be accompanied by talented newcomer Ashley Roberts on piano as well as some backing tracks.

I Feel a Song Coming On features popular tunes and memorable arrangements or songs in the 30's and 40's style such as Lily Marlene, When you’re Smiling, Judi Garland’s Somewhere over the Rainbow and Zing Went the Strings of my Heart as well as several Sondheim and Fats Waller numbers.

Vanessa has been away from the stage while she had her family but she will be remembered for her performance in shows like West End Web, The War Years and Let Yourself Go. This is Darren King’s first show in South Africa although he has performed extensively in British Theatre, touring and in repertory theatre> He has also worked as an entertainer for P&O cruise lines.

Tickets at R120 include a three-course meal. Bookings via Royal Hotel restaurant reservations on (031) 304-0331.