Clarendon High School for Girls grade 10 drama pupil Enisa Tambulu has earned a well-deserved spot in the finals of the prestigious Proscenium Arch Drama Competition to be held in Cape Town later this year.
She is now one of only 70 pupils selected from across SA to compete in the national finals, where she will perform in multiple rounds and stand the chance of winning amazing prizes ranging from bursaries to the opportunity to star in a radio drama. We caught up with her to hear more about her journey.
How did you feel when you found out you were selected for the finals of the competition?
I was in disbelief. It felt like I was dreaming. I had already made peace with the fact that I wasn’t going to get in and that next year, I would try again and do better. I screamed, cried and jumped up and down as I was calling my close friends and family to tell them the news.
Can you tell us more about the piece you performed at the East London auditions?
It is called A Walk to Remember. It tells the story of a young boy who takes part in a historic march in Selma, Alabama, in 1965. My character isn’t someone who’s just hearing about injustice; he’s witnessing it with his own eyes. Through his perspective, we see the harsh realities of the Civil Rights Movement and especially the brutalities that happened during that time.
Although the violence isn’t always directed at him personally, it deeply affects him because it’s happening to the people around him and the people he met during the march. That emotional weight seeing friends and strangers alike suffer just for standing up for their rights, is what makes the piece so powerful.
What inspired you to get involved in drama, and how long have you been acting?
My aunt was my biggest inspiration. Watching her perform on stage while in university ignited a desire in me to follow in her footsteps. She had this presence, this confidence, and this way of making me feel every word she said. So, I knew I wanted to follow in her footsteps and step into that world too. I started in late grade 8. I was still pretty shy, but when the chance came to audition for a drama production, I thought of my aunt and how proud she’d be if I got in.
What are you most looking forward to about performing in the finals in Cape Town?
I really want to make my whole family proud and represent my school in the best way I can. It means a lot to me to be part of something this big, and I want to give it my all. I’m also excited about connecting with other performers and just meeting people who share the same passion and maybe learning a thing or two from them.
Are you nervous and how are you preparing?
I am definitely nervous. I’ve never done something like this before, so I’m going into it with an open mind. My drama teacher and I have been working closely, going through the pieces I’ve chosen and rehearsing them together. I’m also trying to find ways to manage my anxiety as the finals get closer, just so I can stay calm and focused when it counts.
What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned through this competition?
To not doubt myself, and to remember that through God, I am capable of more than I could ever imagine.
Who do you look up to in the acting or drama world?
Zikhona Sodlaka is a phenomenal actress and I’ve always been amazed by the way she brings her characters to life.
How has your school supported your drama journey?
My drama teachers have always shown up for me in so many ways. All the pep talks and words of encouragement have really shown me how much they care and how invested they are in my growth and journey.
A special shout-out to everyone who has been there and sat with me for hours rehearsing. All of you have played a part in my success and I am truly grateful.
