Kyle Grant is a South African pop star who, as part of Afrikaans group ADAM, is responsible for a number of hits that have kept South Africa dancing for years. However, the star has always had a passion for the theatre – and this year, he steps out of his comfort zone at Joburg Theatre’s 2021 pantomime Cinderella.
In Janice Honeyman’s retelling of Cinderella, we meet a girl named Cinderella who lived with her two stepsisters. Unfortunately, Cinderella was forced to work hard all day long so the others could rest. One day, it was announced that The King and Queen were going to have a Ball to find their son, Prince Charming, to find a bride.
The show is on right now at the Joburg Theatre – and is one of the best pantos the country has seen in years. The show is packed with an abundance of comedy, stunning spectacle, hundreds of beautiful costumes and, of course, legendary panto moments.
As the show continues its run, we chat to Kyle about his exciting new role, why the pantomime remains so popular and how different his time on a theatre stage is to one at a pop show.
We loved you in the show! What made you want to take part in a pantomime?
As a huge fan of fairytales and the genius of Janice Honeyman, it is definitely something I’ve always wanted to be a part of.
Why do you think pantomimes are still so popular?
Apart from the fact that it appeals to people of all ages… Every year the antics are upped by a few notches… and this one is no exception!
You play Prince Charming in this year’s production of Cinderella. Tell us a bit about your character.
He’s definitely written to be a bit of a Joburg “boytjie” by nature, he’s also quite blonde (in every sense of the word) but his love for Cinderella makes him step up his act in order to win her love and be the best version of himself for her. He’s a lot of fun to play!
This year’s pantomime is the most high-tech it’s ever been. How is this production changing the game tech-wise?
With this being the world’s first-ever all-digital pantomime during a global pandemic all I think we (the cast) can really feel right now is honoured and lucky to be able to be part of something this huge. It’s like playing on a stage with a 3D Imax theatre backing up the story around you. It’s just extraordinary.
How different is being part of the pantomime different to performing on stage as part of ADAM?
It’s such an entirely different dynamic. The best part of theatre productions is that it takes so much focus and discipline to pull it off with every performance we do, whereas ADAM is about sharing the original music with people who know and love it. It’s a lot more relaxed and engaged with the audience… Both are equally satisfying though.
What has been the highlight of your time as part of this year’s pantomime?
Honestly, just being back on a big stage as part of something this magnificent in a time like this is something I will be eternally grateful for. It also just so happens to be the kindest and most talented group of people I’ve ever had the privilege to work with in a theatre environment.
Why should families book to see this year’s production?
It will lift your spirits and allow your imagination to soar. You will be able to leave reality behind and become immersed in a dreamlike fairytale in all its magical grandeur and mischievous humour. Everyone, young and old, is guaranteed to walk out feeling inspired and re-energized.
Tickets for Cinderella are now on sale from R240 through visiting www.joburgtheatre.com or by calling 0861 670 670.
