Honours Research Shines Spotlight on South African Indian Theatre

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Mr Callum Peters, celebrated completing his Bachelor of Arts Honours degree cum laude, with a research focus centred on South African Indian theatre.

In his study, Bombay Chasers by Dr Verne Rowin Munsamy and Shooting by Mr Ashwin Singh were used as case studies. Peters portrayed Lord Ganesha in Bombay Chasers at the Courtyard Theatre in 2022, in a production directed by Dr Verne Rowin Munsamy as part of a university theatre project.

His first professional acting opportunity came in 2023 at the Durban International Book Fair, where he performed an excerpt from Shooting. This performance was facilitated by Singh. The academic exploration of these two plays was particularly meaningful, as they are closely connected to his early experiences as a student actor.

Peters’ research emphasises the gap between university and professional theatre, aiming to contribute to the creation of theatre that reflects post-apartheid journeys and expresses the spirit of Ubuntu. He explains, “The lessons taught by our ancestors have shaped us into who we are today. It is important to share stories that represent South African Indian culture and preserve the legacy of our ancestors through these narratives.”

His research also contributes to broader social understanding by exploring the intersections of family relations and religion within the context of being an Indian South African. Through case studies, it examines these themes alongside the lived realities of South African Indian communities. This work not only served as a platform for personal growth but also aims to inspire others across diverse cultural and geographical contexts. Ultimately, the research highlights the complexities, challenges and triumphs that shape shared human experience.

During his studies, Peters faced significant challenges, particularly in sourcing information on South African Indian theatre, which remains under-researched in the country. Highlighting the work and insights of theatre stalwarts such as Dr Ronnie Govender and Dr Muthal Naidoo was both an honour and an academic challenge. “I had to delve deeper into the material, which made this academic pursuit even more rewarding and an important step in my academic journey,” he said.

His support system showed great interest in his academic work by attending University theatre events hosted by the Drama Department, most notably his production A Reason to Live, A Reason to Die, which he wrote and directed. The production was staged at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre as part of the Honours Directing Festival.

Peters shared that he remained focused throughout his honours degree, because his support system understood the importance of his academic journey and consistently motivated him.

“It was not an easy journey, as I had to balance my academic schedule with professional acting engagements, as well as my first tutoring opportunity, which allowed me to apply my learning as a senior drama student, professional actor, and tutor,” he said.

Expressing gratitude, he added: “I would like to sincerely thank my parents, Mr Trevor and Ms Homashni Peters, for their unwavering support, which was instrumental in my academic success. To my family and friends – Mr Angus Peters, Mr Keenan Peters, Mr Everndran Govender, Mr Sibusiso Gumede, Mr Saaiesh Ramgobin, Ms Francesca Verga, Ms Nozipho Majola, and Mr Sipho Xulu - your encouragement carried me through the most difficult times. This achievement would not have been possible without you. God bless you all.”

His advice to other honours researchers is to remain disciplined, know their purpose, follow their dreams, and practise gratitude while staying present. He notes that these qualities, when applied consistently, build resilience and determination, especially when managing academic and professional pressures.

Peters is currently tutoring first- and second-year Drama students in the Drama and Performance Studies Discipline at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) while simultaneously pursuing his Master of Arts in Drama and Performance Studies at the University. Alongside his acting career, he aspires to become a lecturer, enabling him to share his knowledge, experience and craft with future generations of Drama students.

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini