Award-winning South African actor and director Abduragman “Abdu“ Adams’ heartbeat lies within teaching acting and sharing his nuggets of wisdom with the generations to come.
Adams lectures in screen acting, media and presenting at AFDA and mentors as part of the Baxter Zabalaza Theatre over weekends.
“I love getting to be part of an institution that takes me on journeys of discovery with my students. I get to impart wisdom and remain abreast of the craft,” he said.
This Heritage Month, the Manenberg-born actor has highlighted the importance of representation in the entertainment industry as he reflects on his career and efforts to give back to the industry and community he comes from.
“In Grade 4 I was taught by Mr Thabiet Gasant, who forced us to read all the classics. Reading all of that helped conscientise me,” he said.
“People have always given to me on various sets I’ve worked on and educational spaces I’ve worked in. It feels great to be able to give back,” he said.
“I need to be part of the creative pulse to ensure that people are not marginalised from the industry.”
Adams said writing and conceptualising plays in his younger days played a big part in propelling his career.
“Doing things for yourself instead of waiting for the phone to ring for a job, made a big difference,” he said.
“Today, actors are entrepreneurs because we do so much and there is a constant learning process. I always say that you are forever a student.”
Fondly known for his roles in Suidooster and 7de Laan, the actor also starred in local award-winning films Four Corners and Noem My Skollie.
Adams said the pandemic made many actors despondent but taught him many lessons.
“This career will never go away. It is, in part, a calling. This is not a glam show, it’s hard work but it’s an exciting job,” he said.
“I am grateful that the career choice I chose more than two decades ago is still alive. There will always be challenging times but never give up on your dreams.”
As a teacher, Adams has a message for parents who believe their children can’t be prosperous with a career in the arts.
“This is a viable career option. You need to stop worrying when you can see this is something they are passionate about,” he said.
“Have a little bit of faith in the art community. With commitment, discipline and a great work ethic, they can make it work for themselves.”
Adams said for a country rich in culture and heritage, representation was important to highlight diversity.
“Those voices should never be lost. We must continue telling stories in our voices. That is why I need to represent and portray the truth in the roles that I play,” he said.
“Representation in acting allows you to find empathy for others. This is why it’s so important to take theatre to marginalised communities so that people can see their stories.
“Each one of us has a story. My truth is my truth and your truth is your truth.”
Adams said the acting industry was like one big family, and that he is grateful for the family that helped him get to where he is today.
“I would not have been where I am today without my family that has held space for me. Jill Levenberg, Oscar Petersen, David Isaacs and Charlton George are just to name a few,” he said.
“These are people who allow you to evolve, transform and become better at what you do.”
Oscar Petersen, co-creator and writer of the show Joe Barber, has known and worked with Adams for over two decades and said their vision for the industry has always been aligned.
“We know we have to push through and create opportunities for ourselves, that is how we’ve remained authentic,” he said.
“When we talk about our identity, it is not just representation in terms of culture but also an identity theatrically and artistically.”