Update

MOSSELBAAI NUUS - A former Point High School learner flew to Universal Studios in Hollywood on Tuesday, 1 August, to attend a four-day course in singing, dancing and acting.

Michelle Melvill (19) took part in Universal auditions in Cape Town on 1 May and was given a "call back" and asked to sign a contract immediately afterwards.

Michelle says: "I was on facebook one day and saw Universal was advertising something called Hollywood Dreams California and I was intrigued. I applied online. I had to send a photo and state the genres in which I wanted to audition."

Talent scouts came from Universal to scout in South Africa. Auditions were also held in Johannesburg.

"There were almost 70 of us at the Cape Town audition. They chose only about 20 people. Most were aged in their early 20s.

"I sang Can't help falling in love with you, acted and danced for my audition. For the acting part I rehearsed a commercial they suggested if you couldn't think of anything else. It was for TJ Maxx clothing store and I did a hip hop dance."

For her trip to Los Angeles on 1 August Michelle had to pay for her own flights.

"I will be doing a dance incorporating hip hop and modern, singing a song, doing a monologue and a commercial."

When asked what she would most like to do career-wise, Michelle has one word: "Dance."

"I've done a lot of dancing since Grade 3. I danced with Biance van Rensburg [in Mossel Bay]. I've never had singing or acting lessons, but I've been in a number of concerts." Biance, the founder and owner of Dynamic Dance Academy, says: "Michelle danced with me for a few years. She was crazy about dancing and when she started, she went straight into my competitive dance group. She's talented - a strong dancer and an amazing person. Whatever she tries, she will do well in because she has perseverance and discipline. She's a hard worker."

Michelle completed Grade 12 at Point in 2016. Her mom is a teacher at the school.

Next year she embarks on a degree in International Studies, which includes learning about the customs and languages of different countries. This year Michelle, who is based in Stellenbosch, did an events management course.

Read a previous article:  ex-Point learner auditions in Hollywood

ARTICLE:  LINDA SPARG, MOSSEL BAY ADVERTISER JOURNALIST

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