As with all the big Hollywood movies that we can only marvel at from a screen, it is evident that a lot of work goes into embracing and embodying the character. The Woman King, starring Viola Davis alongside South Africa’s very own, Thuso Mbedu demanded just that. In a recent interview with Women’s Health Magazine, Mbedu explains the physical preparations she had to do to embrace her character, Nawi who was a female warrior. 

 

Not only did she have to do her own stunts, but she also had to look the part of a warrior. To get the role, the audition process included a fitness test, which to her astonishment, she passed, and that is when the hard work began. She first started by signing up for MMA (Mix Martial Arts) classes, she then added chorography and weapon workouts to the mix and lastly worked closely with a personal trainer to assist with her fitness and form. 

 

“I put myself in Muay Thai classes because I didn’t want to start from scratch…we worked with the machete, the bo staff and then just doing kicks, punches, and jumps. It wasn’t just about learning the choreo, which was at the top of my list, but looking the part” a proud Mbedu explained. 

 

Upon her return to South Africa, Mbedu organized an informal get together, which took place yesterday at the Sandton Hotel. The idea behind it was to inspire local industry creatives to fully immerse themselves in their craft as well as have fun while doing so. 

 

The list of attendees was a combination of actors, musicians, and choreographers. The likes of Bontle Modiselle (choreographer), Michelle Mosalakae (actress), Msaki (musician) and many more attended