Naima Mclean born for theatre

The Colored Museum tells an African American story of what it is like to be black in contemporary America

She is the type of girl that goes big or nothing, her recent starring role in the Hollywood film production titled Vehicle 19 working alongside the late superstar Paul Walker is one of her biggest achievement so far.

“That is a global highlight of my life, I have done British Television series but this was my first action movie and it was a success. Working with the late Paul taught me so much about putting energy into what you do.”

“He was full of life and he challenged me to meet his levels and standards,” the thirty year old says.

Theatre is a space Mclean hasn’t crossed in ages, with that comes excitement as she takes stage for the month long production.

“I have always wanted to be part of a theatre production. I studied theatre and Performance at UCT. It is pleasant to finally get in gear with my career in stage, performing live is what I do and live for,” Mclean says.

Unlike TV productions she plays a role of many characters and says in theatre it’s not about being the highlight of the show.

“We are a combination of narrative characters though your role may be stronger but it’s not the main focus because you are made of many roles in one. Theatre is live and for the moment, that’s what makes a character interesting,” she says.

Other members of the sterling cast include actor Aubrey Poo, Altovise Lawrence, Aya Mpama, Bronwyn van Graan, Caroline Borole, Elisha Mudly, Michael Themba, Mona Monyane, Rori Motuba, Tshepiso Tshabalala and Ziyanda Yako.

The Colored Museum will be staged for a month starting 21 January to 23 February 2014 at the Market Theatre, Johannesburg