High school student Caitlyn Naiker recently played her debut role in the film Highway Sheila, which is based on a well-known local ghost story.
Acting has always been in Caitlyn’s blood, thanks in large part to her mother Veena, a drama teacher who inspired her to explore the world of performance. Her first taste of the stage was in the role of Zazu in The Lion King when she was in primary school. This early experience ignited a passion for acting that Caitlyn carried with her into high school at Ashton International College in Ballito, where she continues to participate in musical theatre.
A LEAP INTO FILM
Caitlyn’s aunt told her about the auditions for Highway
Sheila and, despite initial nerves and doubts about being ready for a film role, Veena encouraged her to take the plunge. “At first, I told my mom I wanted to leave because it was so terrifying,” she recalls. However, her mom’s support helped her see the opportunity through.
Caityln was just 15 at the time and, after a long year of waiting, she received the call to say she would play the role of Santoni Patel, a young woman from Durban who disappeared when she was 16 years old and is said to haunt the highway where she was killed. Her role in the film, a blend of horror and family drama, was a challenging experience as she had to master the nuances of film acting, a stark contrast to her theatrical roots.
BALANCING ACT
The small cast fostered a close-knit environment, and Caitlyn formed lasting bonds with her co-stars. Juggling her school responsibilities with the demands of filming was no small feat. She worked long weekends to accommodate her school schedule, often filming for up to eight hours a day. Despite the exhaustion, she found joy in the process,
supported by Veena who drove her to and from set.
LOOKING AHEAD
Caitlyn’s debut film has received an overwhelmingly positive response, with packed premieres and enthusiastic audiences around the country. The recognition she’s received, even being spotted around town, has been deeply rewarding. She has plans to attend university and study law next year but acting remains close to her heart, and she intends to pursue it alongside her studies. Her ultimate dream is to return to musical theatre after completing her education.
