Elton answers the call to his ‘Sound of Music’ dream

Elton Jeke’s life is a manifestation of answered prayers. The 13-year-old from Fourways has always dreamed of starring in the classic movie, The Sound of Music.

When he heard there were auditions for his favourite show that was set to be performed at The Teatro, Montecasino, he eagerly took the chance to audition.

Elton grew up in the theatre environment because of his father who works at the Montecasino theatre.

“My agent sent an email to my mom so that I can apply to be in the show. I was then called to audition and had to wait in suspense for the results. We were so positive that I was going to get the role. We were always praying with my family.”

It wasn’t until he received a video call from Duane Chase, a former actor and software engineer from America, to tell him he got the role he had been eyeing, that he was at ease and overwhelmed with excitement.

Elton was given the role of Kurt von Trapp, a sensitive boy who hides his pain from his absent father. He portrayed Kurt on stage at Montecasino. This is the same character that was played by the former American actor [ Duane Chase] in the original film in 1965.

“I was over the moon when I was told I got the role. I just saw my career taking off. I thank my agent, and the directors of The Sound of Music for seeing my talent. This is a dream come true for me to perform in a big show like The Sound of Music.”

He said the show is all about movement and that music is an encompassing element of it. This is what he enjoys the most.

“It is a powerful and almost magical entity that doesn’t just unite the Von Trapp Family. It also underlines how the strength of togetherness, love, and a sense of community could prevail over the horrors of war. Listening to music often invokes intense emotions.”

What he admires the most about the show is that it has great lessons about how, with hard work and strong determination, one can achieve anything in life.

“The Sound of Music is something you can go to when you feel like you need to reset yourself. What I saw during our performances is that people liked the show the same way I did. The audience, the love, and people showing support also meant a lot to me when I was on stage. I am now looking forward to many, many more of these kinds of shows.”

Elton is not what he seems at first glance. He has a lot to toast and boast about.

“I am an actor and a football player and I play for Dainfern Football Club. I am in Grade 8 at North Riding Secondary School. I started my primary level at Sharonlea Primary School. When I was four years old, I attended the Children’s National Theatre for three years. Then in 2019, I was part of the show Danone at Joburg Theatre. In February, I shot an advert for Lunch Bar, followed by one for clothing brand Jet, among others.”

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