Q: The political situation in South Africa is still foremost in people's minds. Post-apartheid, how does the country's history affect the work that you do today - particularly in relation to this interpretation of Hamlet?
For me, being born and bred in South Africa, I do not really differentiate the greater political situation from life. This history is about waking up and creating the new and dealing with the growth, pain and loss that must come with the process. So, being in the process, it is not simple to say what the effect is of being 'post-apartheid'. There is always an awareness of the story (which is far from over) and the distances that have been travelled to bring us to this point. I find this awareness informing most things I do, not least of which, my work. In bringing this to Hamlet, I hope a new vein of understanding and appreciation can be struck.
Q: What is it about Shakespeare that you find inspiring?
Shakespeare's rare gift of language and the historical circumstance surrounding his work has allowed the storytelling to plug into our universal and human need and enjoyment of Myth. Playing Shakespeare gives me the sense of being out of time and ever-present.
Q: Shakespeare is arguably the most famous Englishman in history. What resonance do plays by an Englishman have for a South African audience?
I doubt that in reality Shakespeare can still be considered only to be English. The pervasiveness and longevity of his expression make me feel that his being English is almost irrelevant.
Q: Hamlet has been played by numerous famous actors – how did you prepare for the role?
This is, after all, the most coveted part in modern western theatre tradition. Great actors of countless description have donned the 'inky cloak'. This idea on its own is part of my preparation. Also, I have spent an exorbitant amount of time with the text, as well as step up my vocal and physical exercise regime. The most important preparation, I am finding, is coming from noticing my own life as I take on this role
Q: Have you performed in the UK before and if so, what do you think the main differences are between audiences here and in South Africa?
No, this will be my first time ever in the UK!
Q: You've already performed in South Africa, but does the prospect of performing in Shakespeare's home town make a difference?
I feel I have been offered a title fight, to use a boxing analogy! Being there alone will be a sort of pilgrimage for me. It also adds to the excitement of honouring the work at its highest level.
Q: What other Shakespearian characters would you like to play?
So many… I'd love to be a Shakespearean villain. Or to tackle Benedick in Much Ado. Or play one of the great romances.
Q: If you had to summarise, what does Shakespeare mean to you?
Shakespeare embodies the root of storytelling as well as exhibiting some of the English language's finest expression. Since I was very young I have felt close to the bard, and am extremely excited, even scared, about the scale of this new development in our relationship, which has every potential of being climactic.
