Young star performs
THIRD-YEAR speech and drama student and Sherwood resident Andrew White, 20, is taking the theatre world by storm after landing the leading role of the production of Hamlet 2013.
The Stageworld student, who usually sports dark locks, has taken the role as the Danish prince so seriously he now dons a blond hairdo.
And what does he think about it?
White says he likes it and luckily it translates well onto stage.
"I give it my all. I want to portray a truthful representation of my character," he said.
White explained that research is very important for a role as it helps the actor gain understanding into the character.
"Research makes the character more believable," he says.
Last year was a very busy year for White as he did seven plays including Anthony and Cleopatra, Beauty and the Beast, Medea, and Back to the 80s.
White says one of his greatest blessings is that he can get into character quickly. The downside is that it takes him a while to get out.
White said all the experience gained in these plays have really helped him in the transition from a boy to a man.
Looking at life through his character's eyes, gives him a new holistic approach to life.
"I take on whatever speaks to me. Every performance is challenging in its own way."
He said each role and play has moulded him into the performer he is.
At the age of about 10, White did drama through Helen O' Grady. This was just the beginning. White continued with house-plays while at Alexander Road High.
White hopes to make it as a professional actor one day and would like to also take a turn in the director's chair.
"I already have ideas of all the things I wish to accomplish," he said.
The next step for White is hopefully an internship at Artscape.
He believes that going to Cape Town will open more doors.
His advice for young and upcoming actors is: "Don't do it for the glamour, it has little to no glamour at all. Also there is many life lessons to be learnt while performing on stage."
As for his role in Hamlet 2013, Andrew has only positive things to say.
"Everyone in the cast is extremely intelligent and there is so much to learn."
Hamlet 2013 takes place at 7.30pm every evening till January 26.
Tickets for pupils and students are R20, and R40 for the public. The box office is open at the theatre from 6.30pm. For block bookings or school bookings call (041)581-1738.