Musical Theatre graduate, teaching acting, singing and dancing integration. I am also able to assist with oral and speech preparation/ drama exam prep.

Find out more about Jeani Heyns

• 1. When and how did you first discover your craft?

  I remember sitting in a production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at the Artscape in Cape Town. I was completely enthralled by the magic on stage. But my real love for performance came from having good drama teachers who nurtured my love for expressing words, especially poetry in my mother tongue, Afrikaans, with poets such as Antjie Krog and others inspiring me deeply.

• 2. Which artists or artworks have inspired you the most?

  I really admire the directing work of Lara Foot, a renowned South African theatre maker whose productions bring together multiple conversations and cultures. I also love reading Shakespeare; the deeper I go, the more I’m struck by the brilliance of his monologues. And of course, Afrikaans poets such as Antjie Krog and Bibi Slippers continue to influence me. You’ll often find me wandering around local theatre festivals like the Woordfees, taking in everything on offer. Another honourable mention is Andrew Buckland, the master of physical theatre in South Africa.

• 3. What are the qualities and skills required to succeed in this domain?

  Resilience is everything. You need the ability to face critique positively and keep going. Confidence and positive self-talk are essential too. For me, the most important work I’ve done has been taking care of my mental health as a performer.

• 4. What is the most valuable advice you could give to help someone stay focused on creative projects?

  Schedule it in. If it’s not scheduled, it will always take second place. And don’t be afraid to do some things for free. Art doesn’t always need a price tag. It’s our God-given gift to show up for our talents and use our voices. Just do it.

• 5. How would you describe your passion; how does it make you feel?

  It feels like peace, like my mind is no longer caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life. I’ve learned to cultivate silence, and in that silence, ideas bubble up. I also believe in having a designated creative space at home. For me, creativity often starts in those quiet one-on-one sessions with myself, and then comes the joy of letting others in as a theatre piece comes to life.

• 6. What creative achievements are you particularly proud of?

  I’m proud of having released my own single recently. The song had been dormant for a long time, but now felt like the right moment for it to spring forth.

• 7. Have you ever been surprised by a student; by their talent, abilities or quick progression?

  Absolutely. My students surprise me all the time. One shy student, in particular, grew so confident that they now perform slam poetry, and that takes real guts and fire in the voice.

• 8. Being a Superprof is an art. What is your secret?

  I make my online classes feel as engaging as an in-person experience. I think approaching an online class with the same energy and connection helps students truly engage and grow.