Joëlle loves to perform on stage
Joëlle was recently in Madagascar Jr and Hansel and Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood and other fairy tales.
Joëlle Rochecouste (23) from Mayberry Park is playing the Baroness in Chitty Chitty Bang Jr, a musical extravaganza.
Based on the film version of Ian Fleming’s children’s book, and featuring an unforgettable score by the Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr is a family-friendly blockbuster that audiences will find “truly scrumptious”. Joëlle graduated from Oakfields College with a national diploma in musical theatre, majoring in singing in 2017. Her theatre credits include, Edges at The Joburg Fringe Theatre (2017) and Jonathan Roxmouth’s from The Musicals in Concert at Montecasino Teatro (2017).
Her TV credits include being part of the Yotv family, where she was a live presenter, as well as hosting her own mini show called What’s in the Fridge? from 2011 to 2014.
Since graduating, Joëlle has been working for Isabel Byers School of Speech and Drama
Joëlle was recently in Madagascar Jr and Hansel and Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood and other fairy tales.
She is thrilled to be back playing the Baroness in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr.
The RECORD recently had a chance to ask Joëlle a few questions and here is what she said:
1.Tell me the story of how you got involved in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr?
“I had previously worked at the Peoples Theatre, having been in Madagascar Jr and Story Book, and could not not be a part of this fantastical musical.”
2. What role are you playing?
“The Secretary, Violet, and my main role is the Baroness.”
3. How does it feel to be part of a production that is so big and famous?
“Wonderful. It’s incredible to see it come to life – and seeing not only children enjoy the show but also parents is quite something.”
4. Do you perform full time?
“Yes. I don’t see myself doing anything other than performing. I taught extra mural speech and drama for a while, and then started at The People’s Theatre.”
5. Tell me a little bit about yourself, what makes you tick?
“I’m a huge Golden Oldies fan so nothing beats listening to the likes of Fleetwood Mac, The Bee Gees and Nazareth to name a few. Listening to music is a huge part of what makes me tick and keep on keeping on.”
6. What do you like to do in your free time?
“DIY projects with the boyfriend. Catching up on a good series is always nice and I thoroughly enjoy reading. Currently, my partner and I are in the process of trying to finish a 1500 piece puzzle – wish us good luck.”
7. Are you comfortable on stage or do you ever get nervous before a show?
“Oh, wow. I do indeed get nervous before a show, always good to feel a little jitters before, me thinks. But it’s a thrill and I love it.”
8. What words of inspiration can you give to others who are pursuing a career in performing arts?
“Work. Work hard even when you’re tired. Work hard even if you think you know it. It’s difficult, but find what keeps you going, hone into it and keep going. ”
9. What does your day-to-day life look like?
“A quick vocal warm up in the morning, before heading to the theatre for two shows. Then depending on the days I am booked, I shoot through to Sasani Studios to shoot for Skeem Saam and then generally head home after that.”
10. How do you stay fit and on the go with doing so many performances?
“Honestly, just being in the shows keeps you moving and performance fit. Otherwise, nothing like a good walk up Northcliff Hill. Running happens on a very, very good day. ”
11.What are some of the biggest milestones you have reached in your personal life and professional life?
“Having moved out of home – that was a big stepping stone and being able to really be independent is a blessing. Career-wise, I was incredibly fortunate to have landed a role on Skeem Saam – shooting while in between shows has pushed me immensely, but it has been the highlight thus far.”
