Work ethic sets this actress apart
STANDING OUT: DIDINTLE HAS CHOSEN HER ROLES CAREFULLY
Whether it is on stage or screen, Didintle Khunou has fast made an impact as an actress, with the roles that she has chosen to play.
From Janet Weiss in The Rocky Horror Show to Celie in The Colour Purple and now to Esther in BET’s first African-original telenovela Isono, which is set to air at the end of the month.
As she continues shooting under lockdown conditions, she reflects on her start, the role of entertainment in the current climate and how the industry continues to be opened for young talents.
QI realised my passion at 16 after performing in a school production. Once I matriculated, I decided to study drama.
I attained my Honours degree but felt I needed to continue training, so I began training at ActorWize and Indigo View’s Advanced Actor’s Academy.
While training, I [took] cameo roles on TV shows, industrial theatre, children’s theatre and short films, voice-over gigs and voice acting projects. With time, I worked my way up to bigger roles and I’ve been at it since 2016.
Initially, the plan was to become a geologist but after my first experience on stage I knew that telling stories and performing was something I really loved. The earliest memory I have of performing was playing with my sister when we were children.
We’d perform for each other. Apparently, I’ve always expressed my self through music, song and dance.
You have to be mindful of every single thing you do to protect yourself and those around you.
Wash and sanitise your hands frequently; social distancing feels strange as it is a behavioural change, but it’s essential.
QIt’s important to support and watch local productions. The arts play an integral role in moulding the moral fabric of a society.
It does more than only entertain – supporting our local artists and productions grows our industry.
The focus right now has been to showcase African narratives to the world because it opens up more working opportunities for South African creatives.
The industry is opening up. Many young, beautifully talented performers like myself are working.
Having a career in the creative industries isn’t easy and like most careers, you have to work your way up.
I’d say develop a work ethic that will give you a competitive edge because talent will only get you so far. Stay committed to your dreams, everyone faces rejection, if you give up you will never get to build the future you desire.