Top role for ex-Stirling pupil Ryan
For former East Londoner Ryan de Villiers, sweating it out in a custom-made fat suit is a small price to pay for landing one of musical theatre’s most soughtafter roles.
De Villiers, 25, is deep in rehearsal for Matilda The Musical, in which he plays the tyrannical principal Miss Trunchbull in the stage version of the madcap Roald Dahl story. The award-winning musical, now in it’s seventh year in London, opens at Montecasino in Johannesburg next week for a six-week run before hitting Cape Town’s Artscape Theatre until January 13.
As a graduate of Stirling High School and Rhodes University, where he majored in drama, De Villiers’ star has been steadily on the rise, but clinching this standout role was a highlight for the Cape Town-based actor, who remembers watching the 1996 Matilda movie repeatedly.
“I think I watched that movie at least once a week when it was on repeat on e.tv.
“I think Miss Trunchbull is the quintessential villain who is mad as a hatter,” said De Villiers.
While blessed with natural singing talent De Villiers, who was last seen in the Fugard Theatre production of the hit Broadway play Significant Other, had little musical theatre experience and has undergone voice training prior to opening night next Wednesday.
De Villiers, who hopes this role will establish him in the world of musical theatre and would also like to move into film and television, wants his success to inspire young East Londoners who have stars in their eyes.
“I’m really proud to represent good old Slummies. I think such amazing talent has already risen out of that city and I hope kids feel inspired and worthy to go big.”
● Matilda The Musical will be staged at the Teatro at Montecasino from October 17 to December 2, and at the Artscape Opera House from December 11 to January 13. Bookings can be made at Computicket.
I’m really proud to represent good old Slummies. I hope kids feel inspired and worthy