Multi-award-winning actress Didintle Khunou has been cast as Janet in The Rocky Horror Show at Artscape this summer season. Richard O’Brien’s world-favourite blockbuster rock ‘n’ roll musical will run from 6 December 2019 to 12 January 2020.
The actress continues to expand her credentials with this epic casting which follows her lead role as Celie in The Colour Purple, for which she won both Naledi and BroadwayWorld South Africa Awards for Best Lead Actress in a Musical. Khunou has also appeared in TV shows including Mamello, Single Galz and The Throne.
The Rocky Horror Show tells the story of Brad and his fiancée Janet, two squeaky clean college kids who meet Dr Frank ’n ‘Furter by chance when their car breaks down outside his house whilst on their way to visit their favourite college professor. It’s an adventure they’ll never forget, with fun, frolics, frocks and frivolity, bursting with timeless songs (think Time Warp, Science Fiction – Double Feature and Sweet Transvestite) plus outrageous outfits.
How does it feel to have been cast as a lead in one of the most famous rock n roll musical of all time?
Didintle Khunou: A pleasant surprise. I never really imagined it ever happening. I’m excited for people to see the show.
You will be playing the role of Janet Weiss; what drew you to her character?
Didintle Khunou: Initially I wasn’t drawn to Janet, to be honest. In my mind I thought it would be rather silly of me to audition for a Caucasian role. But when I was approached by a member of the creative team to audition, I thought I’d give it a go and I did. I was delighted when I got the official casting.
How has the rehearsal process been so far and what can audiences expect in the 2019 production?
Didintle Khunou: We’re getting the show on its feet quite quickly. With the guidance of our exceptional director, Christopher Luscombe, and choreographer, Andy Ahern, you can’t expect anything less. Audiences can expect to see a fresh take on the musical. Rocky Horror is known to be a fun, wild and naughty show, and our production is no exception!
How has this role stretched you as an actor?
Didintle Khunou: It’s confirmed that (given the opportunity, skillset and adequate preparation) I really can play any role under the sun. That awareness and confidence has significantly shifted gears in my approach to the craft.
What are you most excited about in the production?
Didintle Khunou: It’s a musical – so definitely the music and all the dancing. It’s fun and energising. For many of us, this will be the first time we perform in this production, so it will be great for audiences to see new faces take on these interesting roles in this iconic musical.
What: Rocky Horror Show
Where and when: Artscape from 6 December 2019 to 12 January 2020
Tickets: Computicket
WS
