An incredible life lived

A drama professor at Stellenbosch University was so taken with actor Henk Hugo’s laugh that it helped launch the actor’s career.

Today, Ruimsig resident Hugo pages through memories of a five-decade long career.

The most recent addition to his body of work is a small role in the Afrikaans film, Vrou soek Boer, which is soon to be released.

“I was a bit skeptical beforehand because comedy is difficult. I had only three scenes but this film really looks good,” he said. This year Hugo’s voice was heard on 55 episodes of the radio drama Seespinnekop on Radio Sonder Grense. The father of three has also sat in the director’s chair.

“One of my greatest memories is when I directed Pustonderwater by Bartho Smit. It was the first time professional actors performed it. Smit and the late author Etienne Leroux were in the audience.

“We had a standing ovation that night. Champagne was organised and that very evening I put a ring on my (now) wife’s finger.”

He is known for television roles in Die Vierdie Kabinet, Iemand lief te hê and 7de Laan, but an acting highlight came his way when he worked for the theatre council Truk. “I played the clown in Professor Poffel and Professor Moffel. It was quite an overweight character and a lot of padding was needed.”

“Yes,” he said, “I have lived an incredible, full life and I’m grateful. When it is over one day, I will be able to say I did what I wanted to.”