Young aspiring actors given a taste of the movie industry
Twenty-one students, many from Boksburg, had an opportunity of a lifetime to attend a six-week acting course run by actor Renier Weiderman.
At the end of the course students then had the opportunity to star in their first ‘acting shoot’ in front of the camera as part of their practicals. The short movie shoot took place at the Center Stage Dance Studios in Boksburg.
Renier’s Film and Acting Master Class was established in April 2016 and, since then, the school has attracted a lot of attention from aspirant actors.
According to Weiderman, he realised youth were interested in the industry when he produced his film, Gebore Talente.
“Around 600 people attended the auditions, and most of them were young.
“This is when I realised there was a lack of opportunity for these young people to be taught acting skills. There is a huge difference between, for example, debating in front of people and being in front of the camera.
“I found so many do not know what to do when it comes to the auditions and that is why it’s so difficult for these actors and actresses to land a role.
“South Africa has got talent yet we need more mentors to train and equip. A lot of aspirant actors just need a bit of support and guidance to break into the industry,” he said.
He said both he and his wife, Charlene, never had the opportunity to be mentored.
The course offers classes on how to get into character, performing in front of the camera, and insights into the industry. One of the students, Struan Stevenson, said he had learned a lot during the course including how to be comfortable in front if the camera
Another student, Karmen Veenhuyzem, said the training was amazing.
“Being an actor is not an easy job because you have to work hard in order to leave a mark in this industry. I have learned so much about how to get into the character and I have learned so many different acting techniques,” Veenhuyzem said. Sunward Park resident, Tommy Swanepoel, said he learnt how to build his brand as an aspiring actor.
Weiderman explained that being an actor is not about preforming or acting, but is about knowing who you are and what you are capable of. He added that the more people know about themselves, the easier it gets.
“When people join these classes I teach them to know themselves and that they can achieve anything. Even if you don’t want to be an actor, by knowing who you are, you can make better choices and live a happier life.
“There is no such thing as being “perfect” because perfection is a sign of insecurity. We all grow in this industry. Quantity will bring quality,” he said.
