Hometown: Cape Town, South Africa
Education: Atlantic Theater Company's 2.5 year conservatory
Favorite Credits: The Adventures of Noddy, Snow White, Rhinoceros (ATC), Mary Stuart (ATC)
Why theater?: Theater is the essence of humanity. It is electric and universal and I just couldn't imagine my life without it. It is where I feel at home.
Tell us about The Syringa Tree: The Syringa Tree is a one-woman, 24 character play set in South Africa. It centers around Elizabeth Grace, a 6 year old white little girl who navigates growing up during Apartheid and her relationship with her African nanny Salamina.
What inspired you to pursue The Syringa Tree?: The play parallels my own experiences living in South Africa and is a very beautifully told story of unconditional love, forgiveness and reconciliation. I got to work on it during my time at Atlantic and thanks to the guidance of Kathryn Alexander I was able to feel safe enough to throw myself into this challenging piece and to go further with this project.
What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I love watching people make bold and brave choices in their work. Fiona Shaw is my current wave of inspiration. She makes incredibly smart artistic choices and leaves her heart on the stage.
If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: Austin Pendleton; It would be a dream to perform in a Chekhov piece directed by him.
What show have you recommended to your friends?: The Killer at Theater For A New Audience. Michael Shannon's final monologue will blow your mind its so good!
Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Probably Emily Blunt (with Charlize Theron dubbing the accent) in 'My Year as Rhea Patio.'
What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Reality TV. You name it, I've watched it.
What’s the most played song on your iTunes?: 'Loving You' from the original cast recording of Sondheim's Passion. Donna Murphy's rendition is hauntingly stunning.
If you weren’t working in theater, you would be _____?: A Press Agent.
What’s up next?: Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails as part of Theater for a new City's Dream Up festival.
