The Diva – between confidence and vulnerability. Artists do not only put their art out, but their entire being. How do they build their confidence? Who catches and holds them in moments of doubt? How do they build trust with others, to excel as a soloist and member of a cast? And how does faith figure in all of that?
I had the pleasure of sitting with Whiren van Niekerk – trained soprano and opera singer, assistant director with UCT (University of Cape Town Opera) Opera and Creative Director of DarkStudios.
We explored the magic that happens when people truly listen to one another. We dwelled on the question of how to find the voices that you listen to for good advice on your journey, and how to process what you hear, so that it moves you forward. And we reflected on the role that trust in a higher power and the awe that comes with it plays in Whiren’s personal life and her work. A work that is very personal, because it is her way to share what she believes in.
“It is magical to be able to listen to each other in moments when both of you are playing. You are both soloists but together you are able to make such beautiful music.”
– Whiren van Niekerk –