From Mtubatuba to Camelot
It’s been a dream come true for former Zululand actor Byron McNeil who landed a lead role in the KickStart production of Camelot currently running at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre in Durban.
Described as a ‘charmer with a delightful bass singing voice’, McNeil’s passion for acting was ignited when his family moved from Zimbabwe to Mtubatuba in 1999.
While attending primary schools at Mtubatuba Christian Academy he was involved in the school’s theatre productions.
Moving to Richards Bay in 2008, McNeil revelled in high school supper theatre, and at the end of each academic year took home awards for his stage performances.
This made it relatively easy when, after matriculating from Richards Bay Christian School in 2012, Byron had to choose between becoming a chef and acting.
He moved to Durban to study at AFDA, graduating in March last year with a Bachelor of Arts degree in live performance.
McNeil did a lot of film work at AFDA, directing, shooting and acting in a film every semester.
And film work has come his way - features, short films and commercials - while as camera assistant he learned from behind the scenes.
The start
‘A friend told me that KickStart was holding auditions for Camelot, and while I had never done musical theatre, I knew I could sing... and I got it!
‘It’s almost been like a dream come true - a step into the professional world.
‘It really upped my knowledge of the industry. Steven Stead (Director) believed in me from the start and I am so grateful for that.’
‘Vocally, it has improved my talent as a singer, as I have had to adapt and learn. I was very nervous in the beginning
‘But the cast and crew were very welcoming and encouraging,’ said Byron.
See Byron sing and act at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, UKZN campus until 3 June.