Following last year’s success of ‘Remembering Johnny’ at the National Theatre of Namibia, a show that pays tribute to French icon Johnny Hallyday, OYO presented ‘Discovering Michel’ yesterday and today. Focusing on the work of Michel Berger, an artist discovered 60 years ago in France and departed too soon, ‘Discovering Michel’ will feature the renowned OYO dance troupe and live music, including a choir of 50 teenagers from Windhoek and Okahandja.

Performers include renowned multi-talented and award nominee Ashwyn Mberi, French sensation Clémentine Ruel, who mesmerised the audience last year, and newcomer Lucie Machart, supported by the Hot Pocket Band and Jesús Lasso Rey. Led by OYO stars Desmond Kamerika, Mary Jane Andreas and Joe Nakapela, the performers will navigate through a story of loss, love and finding one’s true purpose in life. A surprise appearance will complete the tableau.

Phillipe Talavera, the director of OYO, narrated that Michel Berger wrote for his muse and impossible love Veronique Samson, for his wife France Gall, and for Johnny Hallyday. 

In 1978, he composed the musical Starmania, with lyrics by Luc Plamondon. It is now considered one of the most famous rock operas in French history. Written some 46 years ago, the musical featured a gay character, a cross-dresser and an ageing pop star. It was, at the time, revolutionary in Europe. 

“Putting such large-scale productions with 15 dancers, three singers, five musicians and a choir of 50 is both nerve-wracking and thrilling. While it is not easy to coordinate such a large cast, it is amazing to see the show come to life,” he said.

He added that, from sad ballads such as ‘la minute de silence’ to engaged numbers such as ‘Résiste’, Michel Berger’s songs will thrill the audience. This will be an opportunity for the public to discover one of France’s greatest talents performed by amazing Namibian artists.

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na