The Paradise Seeker, a music eco-thriller for all ages at The Hermanus Whale Festival

Is the story of Oliver, a brave young otter, and his family who leave their Hermanus lagoon to escape pollution and dwindling food to seek a rumoured Paradise Island where no humans interfere. Does such a place really exist? With the help of three eco-savvy children, and some ancient Narnian-style magic that enables the otters and humans to communicate, the otters and their newfound friends set off on an adventure to find their dream haven.

But they soon discover, as the otter’s mother fears, a dangerous world outside their lagoon when they encounter a gang of greedy abalone poachers. Led by the ruthless Scorpion, the poachers kidnap two children and follow the paradise seekers to get their hands on the untapped abalone colonies of Paradise Island.

Enduring storms, oil slicks and a sinking boat, the travellers must combine forces to overcome all dangers. Along the way, hilarious but intellectually-challenged seagulls and a pod of surfing seals both entertain and help the paradise seekers to find their dream.

Climaxing in a showdown between the poachers and the travellers, our young hero Oliver must risk his life to save others. When the Great King of the Ocean – a Southern Right whale – enters to ultimately stop the poachers and their selfish plot, all must learn that working together will bring harmony and the chance to survive.

Featuring an array of lovable and humorous characters to delight young and old, the full-length production stars around 40 Helen O’Grady Drama students aged 6 to 17 from Grabouw, Hermanus and Caledon studios. Students are not professional actors but children and teens interested in drama and keen to get opportunities to develop their talent. Many have appeared in several previous productions, while for others this will be their first.

Including a host of original humorous songs, with orchestration and arrangements by Bruce Retief, 2014 SAFTA winner for the musical score he wrote for the animated film Khumba (he also wrote the music for Zambesia), the production will appeal to all ages. Local families and those wanting to see some relevant enviro-arts community initiative presented as a highly-entertaining “musical eco-thriller” will certainly enjoy this community initiative.

There will be two shows on

• Saturday 3rd October at 3pm and 7pm
• Sunday 4th October at 3pm and 7pm.

Tickets at R70 are available from Computicket. Enquiries to 081 558 6482.

Lagoon and Whale Image:  African Wings