Durban beauty stars in new TV series

DURBAN screen siren Mishqah Parthiephal made her second on screen appearance, this time on the small screen, in the new youth drama series Snake Park, which aired on SABC 2 on Saturday morning, 15 February.

The actress was last seen on the big screen as Noorjehan, the female lead in White Gold, the 2010 film that marked the 150th anniversary of Indians in South Africa.

Currently writing a script for a feature film for the NFVF in between modelling shoots, the beauty said she was happy to get back into acting.

In ‘Snake Park’, the 13 part TV series, directed by Oscar nominated Director Darrell Roodt, Mishqah plays, Chris Laurenson, a former skateboard pro who is now a surf and skating scout and runs a canteen on the Durban beachfront. The series, which is set during a summer holiday, was completely shot in Durban, making Durban as much as a featured star as the leads Zack, a skater played by Edwin Gagiano and Blessing, a surfer, played by Junior Miya.

Mishqah said she enjoyed playing Chris because of her “tomboy” personality which she relates to. “I was glad that her skating career had come to an end, it was great for me because I can’t skate at all. She is like a big sister to the guys and I have two younger siblings so that part was easy.”

Being an adrenalin junkie, Mishqah said working with an Oscar nominated director was dream come true and also her biggest fear as she had been away from acting for nearly three years.

“It was a huge gap since White Gold but Darrell Roodt was amazing, he joked and didn’t stress the actors out, was professional and made us feel comfortable. It is comforting when someone like him says You really have talent. You dream of hearing them uttered by an acclaimed director,” she said.

What has been the highlight of the past year? I travelled to Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, last year. I love to explore new cultures and traditions. Seeing the world allows you to do so.

What’s your favourite Durban restaurant and local leisure activity? I absolutely love Vicky Christina’s on Florida Road. I love how they’ve showcased Hispanic culture. I love going to the beach.

Who inspires you to continue acting? My favourite actor of all time is Anthony Hopkins. He is older yet still has the ability to capture and demand respect from a young audience. My new favourite actor is Leo Di Caprio. I was very young when Titanic hit cinema’s. Everyone then was so in love with him. After watching the remake of The Great Gatsby, now I get it! I’ve officially fallen in love with Leo Di Caprio.

Do you have the support of friends or family? Yes! My family has always supported me 100 per cent and I’m proud to say they are my biggest fans!

Favourite kind of meal? I’m always a sucker for a home cooked meal. My grandmother is the most amazing cook. I love everything that she cooks! Especially her milktart!

And least favourite? Chicken Ala’ King, I just don’t like it.

How do you keep fit? I’ve been really good since the New Year. I’ve tried to exercise almost everyday. I have a gym at home, so I just make use of it when I can.

What are three things that you believe make South Africa great? The weather! South Africa has the most amazing weather, well Durban to be specific. We can still go to the beach in our winter! The people of SA are always so friendly, helpful and welcoming. I love watersports! South Africa has the best beaches in the world!

The word or phrase you most overuse? ‘Ja, I know’

One thing about yourself that you’d love to change (and why)? I’m really short, so I’d make myself taller if I could. Not a lot taller, just a little bit taller. Just so I could reach items at the top of the shelves instead of asking my 14-year-old brother for help.

What’s on top of your bucket list? I’ve ticked off a lot on my bucket list. Sky diving, seeing the Rio carnival, holiday in Barcelona, live in New York City.

Three things you truly love? My Boerboel puppies, Liefie and Muffin. I absolutely love extreme sporting. I’m a total adrenaline junkie.

And three things you detest? I dislike people who are dishonest, I dislike unhygienic people or places, I hate cockroaches!

One thing about yourself that most people don’t know? I grew up in Verulam. I love watching movies and TV series.

Favourite actor: Leo Di Caprio, Anthony Hopkins, Marlon Brando

Actress: Natalie Portman, Jennifer Lawrence

Singer: Bruno Mars, Pharrell Williams ( I’ve always loved N.E.R.D)

Band: Kings of Leon, Imagine Dragons, Daft Punk (‘Around the World’ is one of my fav songs)

TV show: The Big Bang Theory, American Horror Story, New Girl, Girls, Shameless, and the list goes on.