One of South Africa's adored comedians, Alfred Adriaan, recently took to Instagram to share an important moment in his career – the day he decided to take a bold step onto the "big stage."
He posted a photo featuring himself alongside some of the best South African comedians including luminaries like Marc Lottering, Tumi Morake, John Vlismas, Nik Rabinowitz and Conrad Koch.
Adriaan's post reflects on a significant moment nine years ago. He admits to feeling star-struck at being in the role of the Front of Curtain Act.
It was a surreal experience, especially since he felt he wasn't meant to be there.
“Nine years ago. I was star-struck. I was the Front of Curtain Act. I tried so hard just to be cool. I was not supposed to be there. I was sitting at my desk on a Friday Afternoon at the time. I was like three years into stand-up. John Vlismas produced the show. So I remember going, ‘All he can say is NO’.
“I then called him nervously and asked him. John, can I open Mass Hysteria (shows name). He said, ‘I'll call you back in a few minutes’. A few minutes passed, and he called and said, ‘Why Not?’
“So that's how I got on that big stage. I flew myself to (the) show into Cape Town the next week and did it again. I invested all my money for just a shot back then. Not much has changed 😊🙏🏽,“ he wrote.
Adriaan shared another touching post: “This was our 1st tour 9 years ago. Such a fun time. We made No Money just memories ☺️ Every cent went into the tour. What a great time. #awehmzansi”
Adriaan’s belief in himself, even when he felt out of place or like he "wasn't supposed to be there," is a powerful lesson.
Self-confidence and self-belief can drive you to achieve your goals. Dreams can come true!