I've lost count of the amount of emails that pop up in my inbox with interested readers wanting to know just what it takes to become a successful actor in Mzansi's entertainment industry. We decided to pose the question to one of SA's most experienced and talented actors, Nambitha Mpumlwana who tells us everything we need to know about making it in one of the most competitive industries in the country.
Hi Nambitha and welcome to ZAlebs. A lot of people contact ZAlebs asking us what it takes to pull off a great audition. What's the scariest part of an audition for you?
No matter how prepared you are, no matter how good your performance, it is still a subjective process. You could miss out on a job because of your height!
Do you think you really understood what you were in for when you decided you wanted to become an actor?
You can never imagine what your journey will entail. The best thing is to roll with the punches, especially at the beginning of your career.
Besides acting, what other training have you had (voice, dance, stage combat, etc.)?
Too many to count! As an actor, you cannot stop learning. You must remain a student in order to be your best, and you are at your best when learning!
What is something that you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting out as an actor?
The supporting cast is incredibly important to the success of any production.
Why do you think so many aspiring actors end up giving up on their dream?
Part of the problem is training. You need to go to school to learn any craft you wish to practice. A lot of young actors think that talent alone will bring them success, but you need to learn the tools of the trade. An actor who can only do one character is like a singer who can only sing one song!
Support structures are also critical if you are to have any chance of making it.