Leading Lady

From the stage to the screen, South African performer Lynelle Kenned has wowed audiences and judges across the world. Christi Nortier caught up with the trailblazer about everything from what awards really mean to an artist to why we should all go camping in Namibia.

Lynelle Kenned is way more than a typical triple threat. Not only can she sing and dance and act, she's also a dynamic presenter both on and off the screen. The award-winning performer L started her career as an opera singer, but soon landed leading roles in musicals such as West Side Story and The Sound of Music.

At ease both on stage and on set, Lynelle has been booked as a presenter for TV shows Pasella and 123 Fixit and been invited to MC some of the country's top awards ceremonies. Somewhere in her busy schedule, she has also managed to fit in bookings for commercials and joined the cast of several films. We pinned her down for a few minutes to find out where she finds her drive...

What drew you to a career in the performing arts?

I grew up around music. When I was 17, I was a member of the South African Youth Choir, and was formally exposed to classical music.

I saw what was possible on stage and realised that there were people who had been able to make it their career. I was immediately drawn to the idea. I enrolled in the UCT Opera School and qualified as a classical and opera singer. My career evolved quite organically after I graduated. I don't limit myself to being an opera singer - I am a multidisciplinary performing artist.

How did your parents respond to your conviction to follow your dream?

I was fortunate that my parents recognised my natural talent for music. They nurtured that in me from a young age, signing me up for music lessons as soon as I started school.