Shannon Esra On Her Journey, New Show Lioness And Various Acting Roles

Shannon Earle Esrechowitz (better known as Shannon Esra) / Actor, Writer & Artist

How did your journey in the industry begin?

I was 15 years old when I began presenting for TV. A year after that, I was cast in ‘I Dreamed of Africa’ with Kim Basinger, thanks to my high school Drama teacher, Janet Bayliss and South African casting agent, Christa Shamberger-Young.

You’ve played so many characters on South African television, how do you prepare for each role?

I approach every script the same way – I read it three times: firstly, to get a feeling for the story; secondly, as an investigator – looking for clues about my character – what are people saying about her, what does she say about herself, what are her fears, passions and motivations; and then thirdly, for pure enjoyment. Then it’s a matter of collaboration with the various departments. Who is she? How does she dress? What does she look like? How does she move? I like to work with the elements and the animal kingdom to root the energies of the people I portray. It’s a fun process. It really is like moulding clay. 

Lioness is currently on MNet on Thursdays, what can viewers look forward to in the storyline?

The revelations at the end of every episode are so powerful! But other than that, I really cannot say…can’t set off any “spoiler alerts”!

You’ve been on prominent and loved TV shows such as The River, Gomora, The Throne, and Isidingo…how does an actress maintain consistent work in the industry?

Honestly, by the grace of God. Everything that comes to us, as human beings, is what the universe needs us to experience. I believe each job comes by way of what I need to encounter. 

What do you love about acting?

I love how I get to experience another human being on any given day; how I am granted access into other worlds and mind-sets; how I get to see the world through someone else’s eyes, and by virtue of that, I get to stretch my capacity for love and understanding. Acting is very holistic, for me, personally. I can play pretend and create other worlds. It’s the best job on the planet!

One talent people don’t know you have?

I can tie a cherry stalk into a knot with just my tongue.

What do you hope to ultimately achieve in 2021?

Tranquility and peace of mind. I would love to shoot a couple of movies, maybe another series or two, and also, the odd painting here and there. That would be great! 

How would you like to be remembered?

As funny, kind, and passionate. 

Follow Shannon!

Instagram: @shannonesra_official

Twitter: @ShannonEsra

Facebook: @ShannonEsraOfficial

-Bridgette Makhela

Ginger Trill On Music, Relevance And Always Staying Focused

Tshegofatso Seroalo aka Ginger Trill / 30 / Musician

The Ginger Trill story, where did it all begin?

The Ginger Trill story began long ago, probably back in Potchefstroom before I was called Trill. My friends and I had been making music and cutting demos since high school. I always knew I loved music but it wasn’t until I turned 22 that I knew that I wanted pursue a career in music. 

The come up and remaining relevant, what are your thoughts?

My come up was different and I think no two come-ups are the same really, I’m from the school of the hard knocks. So many failures, mistakes and lessons that helped me grow, not only as an artist, but as a person as well. Seven years since I released my debut album and I’ve learned that relevance is almost like having a “buzz”…it’s all about what you do with the traction you gain.

South African Hip-Hop is hella right now, agree? What are your reasons?

Agreed, the local Hip-Hop scene is lit right now. I think the cycle before this generation had a lot to do with the shift, we’ve never had a scene so full of young independent artists making so much bank off of Rap music, EVER! Thanks to the arrival of prodigies like Nasty C & A-Reece, the industry is opening up.

As an artist that expresses themselves through words and beats, where do you plug in inspiration from?

I draw my inspiration from the music I bump into mostly, and the things I read, the conversations I have, even the shows I watch on TV or on the net, anything that stimulates my mind really. 

How would you describe your music in one word?

Piff. 

Any new material you’re yet to release this year?

Finishing my work on “Tales of the High & Mighty”, a joint tape with myself and Top Goggs from Dizzy Monks. 

Have a favourite track to date that you’ve released?

Too many to mention, and I think they switch every season or year, but right now? I’d say #Money is my favourite song by myself, that record is HARD. 

The plan is to never give up right? What keeps you focused and going?

What keeps me going is purpose, and my family, they are the people I draw my strength and motivation from and of course, my Lord and Saviour.

Where can fans keep in touch with you?  

Fans can catch me on social media.

Instagram: @Ginger_Trill Twitter: @Ginger_Trill Facebook: @Gingertrilly and for music www.gingertrill.com 

 

–Bridgette Makhela

Thabang Molaba: The Actor, Model And Upcoming Stylist

Thabang Molaba / 23 / Actor, Model, venturing into Styling

Explain how the journey to where you are now has been…

It’s been a very difficult journey of rejection, failure and sometimes success. I’m actually glad I never gave up. Besides that, all the struggles and failure I endured, were preparing me for a great reward which is currently unfolding.

You’re a model and actor, has this always been on the cards for you?

Yes, especially with acting, that’s where my heart is.

What would you be doing if you were not in the industry?

I’d probably be with a team of architects putting together a sketch of a building about to be built.

How’s your daily routine like?

Very busy. Filled with spiritual, physical and mental activities. And a day doesn’t end without me getting busy with anything that has to do with acting and drama.

You’ve recently done work with Ferguson Films via The Queen, any valuable lessons learnt there?

I learnt that you need to be firmly present and be there for yourself.

Had you ever done acting before?

I had drama plays in my hometown’s youth club. However, The Queen was my first Television acting gig.

How do you keep focused in your line of work?

I try my best to shut out the distractions. I keep myself present in the now. Give everything in the process instead of the results.

What’s that pinnacle you’d love to reach one day?

I want to be an award-winning actor, it could be any type of award. I want to be in Hollywood productions and projects. I want to play the Marvel superhero ‘Black Panther’ someday. More than anything, I’d like to maintain a constant stupendous improvement in my craft of acting.

Motivation and inspiration, were do you draw them from?

I probably have the most motivated and determined friends in the world. We inspire each other to constantly do great and better. And of course my acting coach Patricia Boyer, she is truly amazing. Other than that, I get it from watching good classic movies and theater plays, interviews and series.

How was 2017 for you and any big things you’re looking forward to this year?

2017 was honestly an amazing year for me. Everything only began to fall into place. It was the beginning for me. A great start. In 2018 I’m looking forward to my comeback on The Queen and a small role I did for Ring Of Lies. That’s all I know of so far, however I know for a fact that 2018 is going to be a year that’s impeccably great. I am excited.

Follow Thabang!

Instagram: @thabangmolaba_

Twitter: @ThabangMolaba_

Facebook: Thabang Molaba

–Bridgette Makhela