Linden’s Sean McGrath started preforming three years ago.
After being pushed by his parents to pursue a career in the arts, McGrath now holds a degree in Musical Theatre from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
This exceptional performer has been in numerous shows such as the Jungle Book, Ginger Bread man Two, Peter Rabbit and other tales and now Beauty and the Beast.
“I am happy with what I have achieved and I see myself working hard toward getting onto the bigger stages and perfecting my performing skills so I am able to book those jobs at the major theatres around Johannesburg,” he said.
To cope in the industry, Mc Grath said one has to be resilient.
“It’s a wonderful thing called developing a thick skin. Yes, this industry can be harsh but it only makes you stronger as well as a better performer.”
McGrath plays Gaston in the Beauty and the Beast.
“Gaston is an awesome character to get into so the whole process of finding that character and becoming him every day on stage has been my favourite part of this play,” he added.
According to McGrath, being in theatre “is the most amazing, fulfilling and adventurous part of my day.”
“Theatre is important because it enables people to use their imagination and break free from the everyday norms of life like tablets, cellphones and TV. It allows the children to appreciate art, the magic of a production and lets them escape to another world.”
Although McGrath enjoys the industry, he would like to change “the arrogance some performers get when they start to do well in the industry.”
McGrath advised those who want to be in the same industry to perfect their skills like singing, acting and dancing so that when they step in to the audition room they are able to blow the panel away with their talent.
“They must always know that this industry is always growing and there is always someone out there that is a stronger performer than you and that your career will grow while your talents grow. It doesn’t just stop; you are always learning new things within this industry,” he concluded.