While some 11-year-olds spend their days in front of the television, watching their favourite shows, Kieran Wagner prefers to act out his favourite stories on stage.
The Grade 5 Discovery Primary School learner started his acting career three years ago, when he was given the opportunity by a school teacher to audition for a show that was being staged at the People’s Theatre in Johannesburg.
“Our teacher talked to us about a performance that was being put on at the theatre, and wanted to know if we would like to audition. I immediately thought that it would be fun, and went for the audition, even though I did not know if I would like acting or not. But, after being chosen to play one of the lost boys in the Peter Pan Jr show, I realised that this is what I would love to do, and my acting journey started,” Kieran explained.
Since his first performance, he has been on stage in a variety of other shows at the theatre, including Seussical – The Musical Jr; Annie Jr, and Winnie the Pooh Jr.
Kieran will now also showcase his talents in the theatre’s latest offering, Beauty and the Beast Jr, where he will be portraying Lefou, Gaston’s side-kick.
He said that he was very nervous when he auditioned for a role in the play, “But, when I heard that I had been chosen to perform, I was very excited, as this is one of my favourite stories!”
Kieran added that, even though it might be a lot of work, rehearsals are actually quite a fun thing for him, and said, “I love rehearsals – learning new dance moves, trying to remember your lines and all the different costumes! But, the best thing is making new friends.”
But, how does he ensure he is prepared before a show? “I have a specific ritual I follow, which includes having breakfast for energy, doing vocal exercises to get my voice right and making sure I am in good spirits and happy,” he explained with a smile.
The production will be entertaining audiences from 29 October to 23 December, at the Johannesburg People’s Theatre in Braamfontein.
Kieran concluded by saying, “If you have a feeling that acting and performing is something you would like, just give it a try. Once you start, you won’t want to stop.”
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
