Uzalo actor Wiseman Mncube has blasted Skeem Saam actress Nompilo Mwelase over her “rude” conduct at recent acting auditions.
The Sour Autitions, Thanks To The Skeem Saam Actress
Mwelase, known for her role as Nokuthula in Skeem Saam, faced backlash on social media for allegedly being rude, dismissive and unwelcoming during recent auditions in Durban. She was the casting director at the auditions organised by Black Brains Pictures at the Bat Centre. They searched for IsiZulu-speaking actors.
Some aspiring actors claimed they were abruptly cut off by Mwelase, with accusations of preferential treatment toward those already established in the industry. One hopeful actress wailed:
“Right now, I am questioning my credibility and worth in this entertainment industry. I have never been so embarrassed. Just when I was getting started, that lady from Skeem Saam curtly cut me by saying ‘next’.”
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Wiseman Mncube Blasts Nompilo Mwelase
Mncube, renowned for his role as Sibonelo in Uzalo, eHostela, and The Wife, expressed his perspective on auditioning dynamics. In a Facebook post, he emphasised the importance of giving aspiring actors a fair chance, regardless of their initial impression.
“If I announce auditions and ask you to prepare a monologue, song, dance piece, or a poem, I should provide an opportunity for you to showcase your prepared talent. Even if it turns out you might not fit the specific look I have in mind, giving a chance to prove otherwise is crucial.”
Drawing from his own experiences, Mncube highlighted the need for sensitivity in auditioning. He challenged the notion that mistreatment during auditions is simply a part of the industry game.
“Lento yokuthi I’ve been through this that and that must change manje cause when we were going through that it wasn’t nice Kwa kubuhlungu so it time we change that ngoba lento yokuthi nami I went through so and so it’s part of the game ayikho leyonto because all we are doing is condoning it. Remember that behind the auditionee is a person. So give that person a chance to showcase what you’ve advertised that you are looking for.”