St John’s College learner shines at World Championships of Performing Arts
Graytin Pretorius received five gold medals, five silver medals and one bronze medal at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles.
St John’s College learner Graytin Pretorius aims to fulfil his acting dreams through a New York Academy scholarship.
Last month Pretorius competed in the World Championships of Performing Arts in Los Angeles where he represented South Africa.
“I brought home five gold medals, five silver medals and one bronze medal. Representing the country and my school in LA was a huge honour,” he said.
“The championship competition comprises of five main categories: acting, modelling, vocals, instrumental and dancing. The SA championships comprise all provinces where different children in different age groups compete and once you get to the world champions level, it’s moved to countries competing against each other. I took part in the acting and modelling category.”
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The 17-year-old learner said his love for theatre and arts began at the tender age of eight.
“My journey in the arts began at the South African Championships. It takes place at the civic theatre in Rustenburg every year. This year will mark 10 years since being at the SA Championships. Once you perform and depending on how well you do, you qualify for team SA to represent SA in America, LA for the World Championships of Performing Arts.
“The first time I went to America was in 2015 and I was 10 years old. It was quite an experience because it was my first time being in the country and I was excited to be on stage. Having gone for the second time was also exciting because I have dreams of furthering my studies there.”
The performer said his plans after completing school would be to further his career in the arts.
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“I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship from the New York Film Academy to study a four-year BSA Degree, Bachelor of Fine Arts. What I appreciate about the degree is that within it, one will be exposed to producing, writing and cinematography which will be beneficial to me and my career.”
