Local actress, Chanté Grainer has charted her path from the esteemed halls of Stellenbosch University to securing her place in the competitive realm of television.
Grainer's ascent into the spotlight began with her theatre debut in 2018, captivating audiences as Hermia in William Shakespeare's classic "A Midsummer Night's Dream", directed by Mareli Pretorius, at the Adam Small Theatre.
This early performance laid the groundwork for her flourishing career, marked by a series of increasingly diverse roles that would solidify her presence in the industry.
Jumping from stage to screen, Grainer marked her film debut in 2021 with a compelling performance as Sybil in "The Watch". This pivotal experience opened doors to further opportunities in film, including her roles in the upcoming productions "Deep Fake" (2023) and "Alphas" (2024), where she takes on the character of Talia.
However, it is on the small screen where Grainer has truly begun to shine.
Her early appearances from 2021 to 2022 on the popular television series "Arendsvlei", where she portrayed Jamie in seasons 4 and 5, captured the attention of audiences.
Following a brief hiatus, Grainer made a return to television as Viola in "Suidooster", further affirming her status as a rising star in South African entertainment.
Her journey from Stellenbosch student to national television personality is one that Grainer hopes will inspire others through its testament to dedication and hard work.
We caught up with Grainer to find out more about her career.
Take me back to 2018, Stellenbosch University. What do you still remember about those days?
Grainer: "Wow, university days were honestly some of the best years of my life! It's where I learned to become independent. And what made it even better was the fact that I got to study something I was passionate about. So, going to classes was something I looked forward to every day because I knew I would learn something new that would help me better my craft as an actor."
What role did university play in the person you've become today?
Grainer: "University opened my mind to a lot of things, which allowed me to formulate my own opinions about certain topics. As a creative, it helped me become more of a free-thinker, which enhanced my character choices when it comes to work. As I've mentioned, it helped me become independent and take accountability for my actions. For example, I knew I had to put in the work without someone else telling me to."
What motivated you to study BA Drama and Theatre Studies?
Grainer: "I've always enjoyed performing from a young age and knew that was something I wanted to pursue in the future. When I got to high school, I chose Drama as a subject and there my passion for the art grew, which made me want to take it further. So, I decided to study it."
During your university period, what were some of the challenges you faced?
Grainer: "The biggest adjustment or challenge for me was realising that I would be completely on my own. It was also a culture shock attending a predominantly Afrikaans university, where lecturers and students mainly communicated in Afrikaans. Another challenge was adapting to the workload and having to manage my time. But with time, it all became easier."
Having been in both theatre and television, can you talk about the difference between the two?
Grainer: "In essence, there is no difference between the two; however, there are certain techniques used in theatre that are not needed in film. For example, in theatre, projection is very important as the audience needs to hear you, whereas in film, you can speak normally because the sound is picked up by a microphone. Another difference is that in theatre, you'd have to express your emotions and movements quite elaborately, whereas in film or television, you can be more subtle and still because the camera picks up every little detail."
"Suidooster" is a big staple in many households. How does it feel to be a part of the cast?
Grainer: "I am extremely grateful for the opportunity I had to be on such a massive local show. It was definitely a highlight of my career so far. My run was quite brief, but I learned so much on set and got to meet veteran actors who I grew up watching as a child. That feeling was surreal."
What has been your favorite film or series that you've worked on?
Grainer: "I must say that I've honestly enjoyed every project I've been on. If I had to choose, I'd say being on Netflix's 'One Piece' live-action season 1 was quite incredible. I had the opportunity to work with international actors and directors.
"The set they built for the show was amazing. I really felt like a movie star on that set. I am currently working on a show I can't mention yet because it hasn't aired yet, but I've been enjoying this character so much and I'm excited to share it with the viewers."
What motivates you to continue with a career in television, especially with the grueling working hours?
Grainer: "When I am on set, I am honestly always just grateful to be there because the industry can be tough sometimes when it comes to work. Every time I book something, I am just thankful because I know what it's like to wait around for an opportunity to come my way."
Who inspired you to get into theatre and television?
Grainer: "No one really inspired me to get into this career. I just naturally had a passion for it and went on to pursue it. I was always more of an average student in school and university. I wasn't one of those who stood out and got validation from others.
"I had to motivate myself because I knew I had this passion and I had to do something about it, whether other people noticed it or not. When I look back, I can be so proud of myself because I know it was literally just God and myself encouraging me to keep going."
How do you deal with imposter syndrome?
Grainer: "I don't think I've overcome imposter syndrome. I feel it every time I step into an audition room or onto a new set. However, prayer helps me calm my nerves because then I know that I am not alone, and God is with me to guide me through whatever I need to get through and that brings me so much peace."
Looking back, what would you like to share with your younger self?
Grainer: "I'd like to tell younger Chanté not to worry, that everything is going to work out just as it should. That she is good enough for this career she chose, even though it might not feel like that all the time. Chanté, you're a star no matter what!"
For anyone looking to get into the entertainment industry, what advice would you give them?
Grainer: "I would tell them to be kind to themselves. Everyone's journey is unique, so you should never compare your career to someone else's. Lastly, that opportunity will come!"