'Rocky Horror Show' casts Didintle Khunou as first black Janet in Cape Town stage show

Cape Town - Multi Award-winning actress, Didintle Khunou has been lead-cast in the Artscape’s Rocky Horror Show version coming to the theatre on 6 December running until 12 January. 

The show then moves on to the Teatro at Montecasino from 17 January - 1 March 2020.

Tickets are available now through Computicket. 

Khunou takes in the role of Janet Weisz in Richard O’Brien’s world-favourite blockbuster rock ‘n’ roll musical. The actress is the first black South African to be cast as Janet in this historical smash-hit show. 

MORE ABOUT THE SHOW:

"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 and outrageous outfits."

The actress continues to expand her credentials with this epic casting which follows her lead role as Celie in Grammy, Tony and Naledi award-winning The Colour Purple.

HERE'S A QUICK Q&A WITH HER ABOUT THE ROLE:

How does it feel to have been cast as a lead in one of the most famous rock n roll musical of all time?

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? 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? 

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 blockbuster musical. Rocky Horror is known to be a fun, wild and naughty show, our production is no exception!

TAKE A LOOK AT THE CAST HERE: 

How has this role stretched you as an actor? 

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? 

It's a musical, so definitely the music and all the dancing. It's fun and energizing. 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 exciting roles in this iconic musical. 

Compiled by Alex Isaacs. 

(Photo: Justin Munitz )