#MusicExchange: Alistair Izobell

Written and produced by Oddball Concepts, the production aims to entertain audiences while hoping to de-stigmatise the perceptions and culture of the Cape Town minstrels. The stellar cast is made up of Carmen Maarman, Carlo Daniels, Austin Rose, Tashreeq De Villiers, Shadley Schroeder, and Ashtevahn Mintoor accompanied by a live band.

I spoke to Izobell, earlier this week.

What does music mean to you?

Music is part of my every thought. It makes sense of my life. It makes me feel like it will always be okay.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?

To watch a production come together after being a thought, from an idea to an end product; when you have allowed it to tell you what it wants to be. When actors take the words you wrote and breathe life into them. That first applause or laugh from the audience.

What drives you: ego or humility?

Humility. My ego has had enough stroking over the years. It’s now about the humility.

Any funny moments on stage?

Too many to count. But now after three decades, what would have been funny moments turned into panic 'cause you don’t think as fast and you tend to forget words more often than not and everyone else finds it funny.

Which living person do you admire most and why?

David Kramer, my mentor. I get to have one-on-one conversations about life and more and about my craft with a living legend who has achieved the dreams I dream of.

It’s your round what are you drinking?

Castle Lite.

What makes you stand out?

Me? I am a standout kind of person. Loud, lover of people, I want you to feel special.

Nicknames?

Allly, Springkaan.

If you were not a musician, what would you do?

Fireman.

Pick five words to describe yourself?

Happy, energetic, thoughtful, caring, kind.

Favourite fashion garment?

All my Adidas sneakers.

Top of your bucket list?

Skydiving; when I build up the courage, over Niagra falls, and then again over the Grand Canyon.

Your greatest achievement?

Being a dad.

What do you complain about most often?

The standard of productions and/or entertainment in the marketplace.

On stage, I tend to?

Want to perform for longer than the running time of the show.

Where would you like to be right now?

Exactly where I am right now; watching my kids get ready for school, their happiness makes my soul smile.