Reddam House drama stars take centre stage locally and abroad
Grade 12 learner Lunga Gqomo and Grade 7 star Nala Motha are rising fast in the performing arts, embodying talent, courage, and creativity.
Every great performer starts somewhere, and for two talented learners from Reddam House Helderfontein, that ‘somewhere’ is already turning into something extraordinary.
Two of the school’s rising drama stars are capturing attention in the performing arts world, achieving milestones that point to bright futures both locally and abroad.
Grade 12 learner Lunga Gqomo has been awarded a coveted scholarship to the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in New York, a dream come true for the aspiring actress, who has been passionate about performing since the age of four.
Her younger schoolmate, Grade 7 performer Nala Motha, recently dazzled audiences in Matilda JR at the Joburg Theatre and has just been cast in Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR, which will be staged at Joburg Theatre’s People’s Theatre from November 4 to 24 December.
Both learners credit Reddam’s strong performing arts programme for helping them grow in confidence and develop the skills needed to shine on stage.
For Lunga, what began as a simple creative outlet has become a lifelong calling. “I loved how I got to be different people and be in strange situations that I’d never actually find myself in. Watching my first play confirmed that this is what I was meant to do,” she said.
Her acceptance into AMDA came as a joyful surprise following an audition she initially submitted ‘just for practice’. “I was driving home with my mom when I got the call – I nearly cried with joy,” she recalled. “I immediately phoned my drama teacher, my uncle, my cousins, and my best friend. It still feels surreal.”
As she prepares to take the next step in New York, Lunga is determined to make the most of the opportunity. “I dream of becoming South Africa’s first EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) winner. AMDA’s training will prepare me for the industry and bring me closer to that dream.”
Her advice to other aspiring performers: “Follow your passion, even if others tell you it’s not realistic. The risks are worth it.”
Nala’s journey into the spotlight began at just five years old when she landed her first television role in Ring of Lies. Since then, she has appeared in Generations – The Legacy and Ambition, steadily building her portfolio and passion for the performing arts.
Also read: Literacy Leap launches new library in Mayibuye Primary School
Her defining moment came on stage in Matilda JR. “When I stepped under the stage lights and saw the audience respond emotionally, it clicked; this isn’t just something I enjoy, it’s something I want to do for the rest of my life,” she shared.
Earning a spot in Matilda JR was no small feat; only 20 young performers were selected out of more than 200 who auditioned. Nala, who played three roles, described the experience as ‘magical.’
Looking ahead, she is focused on growing her experience on both stage and screen and hopes to one day inspire others through television presenting and her own creative work.
Reddam’s head of culture, Sanele Sibiya, praised both learners for their dedication and drive. Inspired Group Africa and Middle East CEO, Ravi Nadasen, added that their achievements reflected the school’s holding group’s ethos.
Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates!
