Peace Train - The Life & Music of Cat Stevens / Yusuf Islam

CREATIVE TEAM

For singer-songwriter Nur Felix, Cat Stevens’ Tea for the Tillerman was more than just an album - it was his first introduction to folk music. Growing up in a Muslim community, Nur first stumbled upon the CD as a boy, left behind by a previous homeowner when his family moved into a new house. From the first listen, he was captivated by the poetic imagery, and wisdom woven into Stevens’ music. That spark would ignite Nur’s own lifelong journey into songwriting and storytelling.

In 2023, Nur shared his dream of creating a stage production celebrating Cat Stevens’ extraordinary life and music with his friend, actor and theatre-maker Vincent Meyburgh. The two began crafting a script that seamlessly intertwines Stevens’ timeless songs with the dramatic and deeply human moments of his life — from the heights of fame to the profound spiritual transformation that saw him become Yusuf Islam.

NUR FELIX

Nur is a singer-songwriter, guitarist from Cape Town, South Africa, known for his uplifting and soulful performances. With over a decade of experience on stage, he blends Folk, Pop, and Soul into his music, bringing storytelling and melody to the forefront. His work often explores themes of spirituality, human rights, and personal reflection. Nur’s songs  has been featured in documentaries was nominated in the 2017 Global Peace Song Awards, held in Los Angeles. In Peace Train, Nur brings dynamic performance, voice and musicianship to the theatre stage, taking on the role of Cat Stevens 

VINCENT MEYBURGH

Vincent is a UCT-trained performer and founding force behind Jungle Theatre Company. Over two decades, he has directed, created, and performed in numerous productions - many with environmental and educational themes that have toured nationally and internationally.  He has also led theatre training programs and mentored emerging artists across South Africa.

In 2016, Vincent wrote and directed When Lion Had Wings, which was featured at the ASSITEJ International Festival for Children’s program, Cradle of Creativity. In 2019 Vincent lead the training of 10 theatre makers and mentored directors, musicians, actors, writers, and mask/puppet makers in the development of Mantis and the Bee and Dassies’ Tale. Both productions are still touring nationally and internationally. In Peace Train, Vincent appears as Cat Stevens’ father and the drummer, bringing his extensive experience as both an actor and musician to the production.”

YOLANDI LA GRANGE

Yolandi is a classically trained pianist, vocalist, and actress, holding degrees in both Piano and Singing. With a background that spans from classical concert halls to theatre stages, she brings a blend of musicality and dramatic flair to her performances. Her passion lies in fusing the elegance of classical repertoire with contemporary styles. Whether at the piano or lending her voice to a role, Yolandi’s artistry invites audiences into a deeply emotional and memorable experience.

BRENT PALMER

Brent is an award winning and multi-nominated actor, playwright and producer. In 2024 he won the Fleur Du Cap award for best actor in a leading role for his role as George Megalos in King George. Five of his plays have been nominated for Fleur Du Cap theatre awards. Palmer has performed in a number of plays at the Fugard Theatre and beyond, including Bench, The Father, A Steady Rain, The Kingmakers, Macbeth, The Room and Dinner with the 42’s. In 2015 he received the SAFTA award for Best Short Film, Picture Perfect Heist, which he co-produced with BenchFilms. This year, in collaboration with Ari Kruger and Sketchbook Studios, Palmer wrote and produced a short film titled King George. He has been featured on many television shows like Tali’s Wedding (Showmax), Those Who Can’t (SABC 3), Our Girl (BBC) amongst many more.