Durban theatre star Kajal Maharaj.
Image: Supplied
The Durban theatre scene is buzzing with vibrant and talented actors who bring a variety of stories to life on the stage.
From drama stars to comedy heroes and dance divas, here are some of the hottest Durban theatre talents creating a buzz in the theatre, stage productions and live performance space.
1. Kajal Maharaj
This Durban-born actress, dancer and presenter is renowned for her theatre roots before moving into television and film.
She recently returned to the stage in the production “A Woman Apart” at the Seabrookes Theatre.
In this play, she stars as Tash, a successful lawyer who seemingly has it all. But while waiting for an Uber in the middle of a moral crisis, her story unfolds in real-time.
In a recent interview with “Independent Media Lifestyle”, Maharaj explained: "Live performance is art and the story of 'A Woman Apart' is like a rich tapestry of colours and textures woven together by an artist whose sole occupation is creating beauty and spreading joy. It’s an amazing ride, and I’m really looking forward to sharing it.”
Durban-born actor and acting coach, Rajesh Gopie.
Image: Instagram
2. Rajesh Gopie
Gopie is one of Durban’s most respected theatre figures. The award-winning actor, playwright and director is behind acclaimed productions such as “Out of Bounds” and “The Coolie Odyssey”.
Gopie is also determined to use his years experience in the entertainment industry to assist aspiring talents.
With a career that dates to the 1990s, Gopie has made his mark locally and internationally.
He has lent his expertise as a coach to some of the finest talents in Hollywood such as Oscar-winner Brandon Fraser, Laurence Fishburne, David Hare and Indian cinema stalwarts like Anil Kapoor, Feroz Khan, Seema Biswas and Satish Kaushik, among others.
Last year, he ignited the local performing arts scene with a five-week acting course which was aimed at assisting aspiring actors with honing their craft.
Drawing on decades of experience in theatre, television, radio and film, Gopie is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of storytellers in his home city.
South African actress Kajal Bagwandeen.
Image: File
3.Kajal Bagwandeen
Bagwandeen is a Durban-born actress and trained Kathak dancer who has built her career through theatre, dance and entertainment before starring in television dramas and films.
She is also known for her extensive television work such as “3 Days to Go”, “7de Laan” and “Isidingo”.
In regards to her theatre work, she has performed in major Bollywood-style theatre productions, including “Bombay Crush” and the “Chalo Cinema” series.
In a previous interview, she spoke about the intensity of live performance:
“Last year, I did not do much acting and that has changed. By dancing and acting, getting into and out of character frequently is challenging.”
She also described the demanding rehearsal process:
“It is physically exhausting, but this is what I love - hopefully the hard work will pay off.”
4. Shika Maharaj
Maharaj is an emerging creative voice associated with Durban’s Indian arts and theatre movement, including the Red Mango Arts Festival which celebrates Indian heritage through theatre and performance.
The Durban-born actress and performer transitioned into acting later in her career, gaining recognition through stage work, community theatre-linked productions and heritage storytelling projects.
While she is now also active in film, her theatre and performance identity is closely tied to Indian South African cultural storytelling in Durban’s arts scene.
5. Yateen Dayaram
This Durban-linked stage actor is acclaimed for his performances in productions such as “The Coolie Odyssey” and other South African theatre productions which explore Indian identity and heritage.
Dayaram is also celebrated for his ensemble-driven stage works that explore identity, heritage and history. He has also been lauded for his involvement in serious dramatic works staged at major South African venues, particularly productions connected to fellow Durban-born playwright and director, Gopie.