Local’s life changing experience with Madame Zingara

The mystical, exquisite and sold out performances of Madame Zingara’s Theatre of Dreams really did make one North Coast girl’s dreams come true.

Storm Mirtle, a grade 11 pupil from Crawford College North Coast had the once in a lifetime opportunity to work behind the scenes at the incredibly successful Madame Zingara in Durban recently.

Mirtle has always loved theatre, dancing and acting and is committed to her goal of making a name for herself in show biz.

The Crawford grade 11’s had to choose a career and then acquire some work experience to see if that is the career path they want to follow.

Mirtle completed some hours at a hair salon, East Coast Radio and Madame Zingara’s.

“The other jobs were also pretty cool, but I preferred Madame Zingara’s because I want to make the performing arts my career,” she said.

She admits that it is difficult to achieve what she wants to do in the industry in South Africa.

“It’s tough to be an actress in SA because it seems like you can only go so far, but I will definitely start local and then only move forward when I know I’m ready for the international scene,” said Mirtle.

A passion for dancing made the experience at Madame Zingara’s that much more special.

“The best part of the whole night was the vibe backstage. Just to see how the crew interacts with each other, they are like one big family,” she said.

Mirtle said the whole idea behind the Madame Zingara’s show is very special.

“Everything they do inspires you to do more and follow your dreams.”

Mirtle felt right at home backstage and for one night, she was part of that family.

“The minute I walked in they welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like I was part of the gang,” she said.

Mirtle is already working towards her Hollywood goal, taking drama and dance classes at school and entering the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art each year.