Shugafam, it's real right now. Auditions are drawing nearer and nearer; excitement is building and we are preparing for a massive weekend in South Africa. The #MTVShugaAudition is always a memorable event but beyond the fun, glitz and glamour, you should always remember that MTV Shuga was created for a greater cause.
Here are few reasons why I believe the importance of MTV Shuga cannot be overemphasized:
- Every episode of this show wields a strong message that stimulates your mind and leaves you with a fresh perspective of certain societal issues that have not been addressed over time.
- In analyzing sexual health and promoting safe sex practices, MTV Shuga is peerless. Over the years, we have noticed an impressive scale of changes proven in a research conducted by the World Bank.
- MTV Shuga has tirelessly debunked common sexual myths and the response from our viewers has been overwhelming as they have admitted that they have had to unlearn a lot of false practices.
- As an actor, the show puts you on a pedestal and provides a fantastic platform for you to showcase your talent which in turn opens you up to other opportunities. Also, you instantly become an ambassador of MTV Shuga and an embodiment of the above-listed points.
Tell me, who wouldn’t want to be a part of this greatness?
Luckily, the auditions are giving young South African actors a chance to join the #Shugafam. Whether you're auditioning online or are you making plans to attend the coming auditions on the 25th of August in Johannesburg and 26th of August in Durban, we can't wait to see you give it your all.
However, there's one big question that many people have been asking "What are the judges looking for?"
https://twitter.com/Sbulele_N/status/1032195528229040129
The #MTVShugaAudition will be featuring a panel of industry professionals whose experience ranges from production to acting on some of the biggest shows in South African television. They know what they're looking for - but do YOU know what they're looking for?
We had a quick conversation with a few of this weekend's judges to find out more about what they want in a potential MTV Shuga Actor...
...and here's what they said:
Steven John Ward: “I’m looking for an actor who’s ready to take on the MTV Shuga cause. Talent is great, but someone who understands the message will have an advantage.” (SPOT ON, STEVEN!)
Nocxy Mabika: “What I’m looking for is quite straightforward. One of the most special traits of a good performer is not what they have been taught, but their ability to be in touch with their inner spirit and soul. It’s what I’ll like to call and internal engagement and that’s what I’m looking for. I’m looking for somebody who has the ability to enter any kind of character with confidence and energy. I’m looking for a performer with good understanding of dramatic skills and techniques.”
Nicole Theunissen: “I am looking for a clear decision making, connection to the text and a wonderful personality that is up for the challenges that come with this show. Good luck!”
TBT - This is just a taste of what the judges went through at the last #MTVShugaAudition in 2017:
https://twitter.com/MTVShuga/status/898117125436473344
Nolwazi Ngubeni: “I’m looking for the next big thing. Simple!”
Nastassja Pretorious: “I am looking out for an actor who can speak, be authentic and be convincing all at the same time.”
Solly Moeng: “The trick is not to try too hard. We need someone for whom acting comes naturally but who can still convey their enthusiasm for the role without seeming too eager. Above all, it needs to be someone who love MTV Shuga and knows what they are signing up for.”
Ayanda Makayi: “I’m looking for individuality, someone who brings an honest performance but also someone who speaks to the MTV Shuga brand.”
Bonnie Lee Bouman: Here are a few things I'm looking for at the MTV Shuga Auditions. I'm looking for people that have the ability to take the text and really make it their own. I'm looking for interesting reads, people who think outside the box and make very interesting and strong choices at the casting. It's a scary process to queue with other people who you might regard as competition but I'm looking for people who take the time to prepare because you have ONE shot and I want you to make the most of it.
There you have it. I hope this guides you to perform better at the auditions. See you there!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9MZQyo44MLA
Remember: The #MTVShugaAudition takes place in:
Johannesburg – 25 August 2018
The Joburg leg of the auditions will be held at Zone 6 the Venue in Soweto on Saturday the 25th of August.
Durban – 26 August 2018
One day later, we’ll be flying to Dubane for the second leg of the public auditions to be held at the Olive Convention Center in North Beach.