Sing your heart out

28 Feb 2014

Bianca le Grange, currently starring in the South African staging of Blood Brothers, was nominated for a Fleur du Cap Theatre Award this week. Here's what she had to say about the news.

First of all, congratulations! Where were you when you first heard the news?
I was in my PJs having coffee at my apartment when the Fugard Theatre congratulated me. I was confused and didn't know for what. It took some time to sink in.

And how did you react?

I was stunned and shocked. This is my first musical and my first acting role. I couldn't believe it! It's a real honour to be nominated. I made some huge sacrifices and really pushed myself. This role was a huge challenge and all the hard work is finally paying off.

What's it been like to be part of Blood Brothers?

A dream come true. I've wanted to work with David Kramer for a long time. My fellow cast members are all super talented; they all have become like family to me. The show is a huge hit and I'm super excited to play Mrs Johnstone every night, getting those standing ovations and all the great reviews. It's really nice!

How do you maintain the intensity of your performance night after night?

I try to stay true to the story and the character. Crying is not the easiest thing to do, especially when you're me. I'm always bubbly. I try to remain focused and I listen to my fellow actors.

And what are your plans for after the show has ended?

I would love to do another musical so I'll be doing auditions until I get the next big role.

Blood Brothers is at Cape Town's Fugard Theatre until 30 April. Tickets are available from Computicket or by calling the Fugard Theatre box office on +27 (0)21 461 4554. Generous discounts are available for Friends of the Fugard, for which you can sign up by calling the box office or by going to www.thefugard.com.

Eugene Yiga

About Eugene Yiga

Eugene graduated from the University of Cape Town with distinctions in financial accounting and classical piano. He then spent over two-and-half years working in branding and communications at two of South Africa's top market research companies. Eugene also spent over three-and-a-half years at an eLearning start-up, all while building his business as an award-winning writer. Visit www.eugeneyiga.com, follow @eugeneyiga on Twitter, or email moc.agiyenegue@olleh to say, um, hello.