Q&A with Qaphela
Abdul Khoza lifts the lid on his Isibaya character and life on set.
Abdul Khoza plays the mischievous Qaphela Ngwenya on soap Isibaya (2013- current), who is the black sheep of the family thanks to his temper tantrums and underhanded dealings. But it’s a role 29-year- old Abdul loves, not least because he gets to work with soapie superstar Menzi Ngubane, his onscreen dad Judas.
Who’ve you learnt the most from on set? My “father” Judas – played by Menzi. Besides acting, I have learnt so much from him about family. He’s a family man and a genuine human. He is original and straightforward. How long does it take to get into hair and make-up? For me it’s quick. They just trim the sides of my hair and a touchup of make-up [Laughs]. What’s your favourite item in Qaphela’s wardrobe that you’d love to take home for your own closet? I love his black shoes! They’re Qaphela and my favourite. What supernatural ability would you give Qaphela? I’d like to have The Incredible Hulk’s power; he’s a powerhouse. Once he transforms, you can’t mess with him. I would crush everything in my way if I had that kind of superpower. Who is the most eccentric person on set? No one does method acting [Laughs] – once the scene is shot, we get out of character. We’re usually joking around until the cameras are on, then we are fully in character. And do you hang out with your castmates after filming? I do – mostly with my TV family: Menzi (Judas), Thuli Thabethe (Qaphela’s stepmom Beauty) and Linda Mtoba (Qaphela’s sister Zama). We’ll meet up for dinner – we don’t want it to be a pretend family, the chemistry and closeness you see on TV is real. What’s your favourite meal from the catering service? None [Laughs]. I’m the only vegetarian and they usually serve meat. I eat salads most of the time. And is there a practical joker on the set? Funny enough, it’s the older actors who’re the funniest and tell the jokes. Bheki Mkhwane (taxi boss Samson) and Thembi Nyandeni (matriarch Mkabayi) – they’re the funniest. They joke about starting out in the industry and how much things have changed – you learn and have fun at the same time. Do you prefer studio filming or outdoor sets? Nothing beats the outdoors! There’s so much to play with outside. You’re limited, movement wise, when you’re indoors with all the furniture. How long does it take you to learn your lines? I learn them immediately; they guide you. As soon as I read the script and understand the storyline, it makes it easier to remember lines. What takes time is translating the words to isiZulu.