An incredible selection of storytellers recall how one song or piece of music has changed their lives in an intimate showcase.
First, you hear someone tell the story of a life-changing relationship with a piece of music. Then, you hear that song played out, sometimes live.
With For The Record, the process has been just as important as the performances themselves. The call was open to people from all walks of life, from experienced performers to those who had never written or performed a story before, reinforcing the belief that everyone has a powerful story worth telling. Through a selection process, seven storytellers were chosen to take part in a series of intensive workshops and tailored writing sessions facilitated by Crizelle leading up to the showcase.
Together, they have worked to develop and shape their personal experiences into compelling stories. The performances explore a rich range of deeply personal experiences, from living up to one’s name and navigating the uncertainties of coming of age to confronting the gap between the life we planned and the one we find ourselves living. Through stories of losing a parent, an "unexpected knock", a life-changing moment on holiday, and love lost and found, each storyteller offers a unique perspective on the moments that shape us. These are stories that invite us to listen, connect and reflect and that might just leave a lasting impression on yours.
The journey has been truly special, and we’re delighted to bring For The Record to life at Theatre Arts.
Crizelle Anthony is a writer, filmmaker, educator and award-winning theatre director whose work centres on storytelling as a means of fostering connection, challenging dominant narratives and provoking social change. Alongside her decade of experience in the film industry, she holds an MA in Creative Writing and Education from Goldsmiths, University of London, that has equipped and fuelled her passion for teaching creative writing and developing local stories. Crizelle works particularly with young adults in underserved communities across South Africa. In 2024, she performed her prose piece, An Afternoon in the Parish, on the main stage at the London Literature Festival at Southbank Centre.
As an Indian South African female artist, Crizelle's creative practice explores identity, belonging and the complexities of navigating the spaces between Black and white, with a particular focus on Indian, Coloured and Mixed-Race experiences. She is the co-founder of the Spiceroots Collective, which seeks to amplify overlooked perspectives, foster meaningful dialogue and create space for stories that challenge dominant narratives.
Our Producer
Tailyn Ramsamy is a versatile creative professional with over 13 years of experience in acting and a diverse background in directing and producing. Based in South Africa, he has brought more than 15 productions to life across stage and screen, earning recognition for his dynamic range, magnetic presence, and commitment to authentic, compelling storytelling. With an innovative and collaborative approach, Tailyn is passionate about developing complex characters and creating bold, forward-thinking work that challenges conventions and resonates with diverse audiences. Whether performing, leading a creative team, or developing new work, he brings depth, creativity, and professionalism to every project.
Our MC and creative writing facilitator
The award-winning radio broadcaster-turned-legal eagle, Saya Pierce-Jones, will be our storytelling host for the evening. Alongside her journalism, she has worked with performers across Cape Town’s comedy, music and burlesque industries. After more than a decade in radio as a news anchor and presenter, Saya knows just how powerful music can be in illuminating our personal narratives. She’ll be guiding us through the evening, bringing audience and storytellers together in a shared space of listening, connection and reflection, as our performers put their own stories of love, loss and triumph on the record.