Brutney Singrew on Skemergrond: From dream to reality

Venecia Valentine

At 28, Brutney Singrew is living out her television dream as Chelsea Kannemeyer in Skemergrond. The role marks her most substantial appearance on screen so far.

Viewers may recognise her from earlier appearances in Juffrou X, Suidooster and Ouma Sarie. In Skemergrond, however, she feels she has truly found her moment.

Singrew describes Chelsea as a joyful and energetic character.

“Chelsea is a bubbly little person who is crazy about flowers. She comes from a long line of flower sellers and works with her aunt at Gloria’s stall. She finds real joy in working with flowers.”

Finding her place in Gemoedsdrif

When Chelsea first arrives in Gemoedsdrif, she struggles to find her place.

“Chelsea came to live in a strange place as a stranger. But she quickly adjusted to the environment and the people. She realised the new place has a purpose in her life.”

One of the biggest changes for Chelsea comes through her outlook on love.

“Her perspective on love changed. She is ready to give it another chance.”

For Singrew, that personal growth makes the character rewarding to portray.

“I enjoy playing Chelsea. She is a loving person. I enjoy watching how she handles life’s challenges and becomes stronger on the other side.”

Similar traits but different choices

Although Singrew and her character share certain personality traits, she points out clear differences between them.

“Our personalities are quite similar. But her choices are not always the same as what I would choose in certain situations.”

Being part of the show’s established cast and crew has been a rewarding experience.

“It is amazing. Everyone is so talented. It is special to watch how the team creates magic on set every day.”

Life behind the scenes

Singrew describes the atmosphere on set as warm and welcoming.

“In the mornings it feels like one big family having breakfast together. Everyone prepares for the day.”

She jokes that the first highlight of the day is coffee.

“The coffee is strong and it gives us the energy to make the magic happen.”

Running lines together often fills the set with noise, but for the actors it signals a productive day.

“For us, that noise is the sound of a successful day. The atmosphere stays light and there is love in every form.”

Working with William Adams

Her co-star William Adams, who plays Louis Pienaar, plays an important role in her on-screen journey.

“William is a gifted actor. The authenticity in his performance helps me bring out my own authenticity.”

She says their ability to think quickly during scenes helps their partnership on screen.

“We both think on our feet, which makes working together natural and enjoyable.”

Even serious scenes sometimes lead to laughter.

“When we do emotional scenes and someone says the classic ‘How could you?’, it can become very funny. William is the funny guy on set.”

A surreal opportunity

When Singrew learned she would join Skemergrond, the moment felt unreal.

“It was definitely a pinch-me moment.”

Growing up in George, Western Cape, South Africa made the opportunity even more meaningful.

“It can be difficult to get opportunities when you grow up far from the main centres of the industry.”

For her, the role represented more than professional success.

“Just knowing something like this was possible for me, so far from home, felt like a blessing. It showed that every sacrifice and difficult season was worth it.”

A childhood filled with love

Singrew describes her childhood in George as simple but full of support.

“We did not have much, but there was always enough love.”

She grew up with her sisters and their grandmother, who was deaf and mute.

“We spoke sign language at home. It was always fun to teach my friends the language.”

Her family supported her early passion for performing.

“My parents attended every ballet performance. My sisters stood in the audience with posters and cheered louder than the music.”

Finding her place in the industry

Her first audition was for Juffrou X on kykNET.

“I was nervous but also excited.”

The experience confirmed that acting was the right path.

“This industry is demanding, but it is also necessary. It allows artists to tell authentic stories that matter to viewers.”

A career highlight

Singrew admits she rarely watches her own performances.

“I am very critical of myself.”

Despite that, each new appearance still feels special.

“My role in Skemergrond is definitely one of the highlights of my career.”

From a young girl in George with big dreams to a rising actress in one of South Africa’s popular television dramas, Singrew believes this is only the start of her journey.

When to watch

Skemergrond airs Monday to Thursday at 19:30 on kykNET&kie (DStv channel 145). The show is also available on DStv Stream and Catch Up.

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