Actor Chris Jaftha: The magic is in the unplanned moments

Tell us a bit about who you are and your role in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

I’m a storyteller at heart — whether I’m acting, producing, or presenting, I’m always drawn to work that connects, uplifts, and entertains. I am a performer and creative entrepreneur, passionate about telling stories that matter.

In Joseph, I’m stepping into the role of Pharaoh — a character who’s as bold as he is iconic. He’s got all the charisma and swagger of Elvis usually but we have a different take on that in this production, mixed with royal flair and a touch of mischief. It’s a fun, high-energy role that lets me lean into both the theatrical and the musical, and I can’t wait to bring him to life on stage. I play Jacob and Potiphar, too, and enjoy leaning into the comedy of these characters.

Would you describe yourself as “a traveller”? 

I’d describe myself as a traveller — not just in the literal sense, but in spirit too. I’ve been fortunate to see the world through the work I’ve done, performing on stages across continents and connecting with people from all walks of life. Every journey has shaped me, and every destination has added something to my story.

Three words that describe your travel personality … 

Adventurous. Curious. Effortless.

Tell us about your childhood holidays?  

I grew up in the old Sophiatown (Westbury) and Eldorado Park, and we’d always head out to a resort called Come Together in what’s now known as Mpumalanga — some of my best memories were made on those trips and it's where my love for the outdoors began.

The thing I remember most about my childhood holidays is …

Swimming, having fun, hikes into the Sodwana Caves and God's Window; my dad giving us our first knives and teaching us how to cut biltong and open cans with them; buying the best fruit from the vendors in these areas…where we finally get to taste our tripple A grade fruit lol.

My first trip abroad was to … 

Germany. I spent three years there doing voluntary work, raising funds for HIV and AIDS orphanages back in South Africa. We used dance and drama as powerful tools to teach about the history of South Africa, HIV/AIDS awareness and the impact of racism. It was one of the most meaningful chapters — sharing stories, creating connections and using art to make a difference.

And this is what I remember ….  

Europe is so rich in culture. I remember the German diet, mostly bread, cheese and cold meats as well as bratwurst. It was the first time I ever tried sparkling water -- I didn’t like it but now I do.

The most difficult, remote or adventurous destination I’ve ever been to was … 

I think the most adventurous  destination I’ve been to, though it wasn’t on holiday, was deep in the rural areas of Mozambique. We lived with the locals in their huts and they treated us like kings and queens. It was a truly beautiful experience.

A bizarre thing that’s happened on my holidays …

Spending New Year’s Eve in a Subway sandwich store because our one friend didn’t want to spend money, and dudes being sick in the store because it was New Year's. I’m still shaking my head at dude to this day.

Tell us a funny travel story.

We were snowboarding in the Swiss Alps for my birthday — Christmas Day. The Swiss side had already started to melt as spring crept in, so we crossed over, chasing snow on the French peaks. Just the three of us on this trip. Tight crew.

Now, one of the homies had dubbed himself “the masked snowboarder” — claimed he was the ninja of the group. Kept saying, “Y’all are gonna eat my powder!” Big talk. We let him have it.

We got to the top, above the clouds, sun shining, snow sparkling, vibes immaculate — and two of us strapped in and started carving our way down, feeling good. But the masked snowboarder? He was having a moment, drifting a little too close to a cliff edge and decided he needed to reset. Fair. So, he took off his board to adjust. As he put the board down — mind you, we were at the very start of a 12km run -- the thing took off. Just zoomed down toward that same powdery cliff he was trying to avoid. We all froze. He tried to chase it. Sprinted. But the board was too quick, man. It vanished into the snow like it was never there. Gone. Poof. Over the edge.

Now, we were way up. Higher than the clouds. Like, actual cliffside territory. He looked over, and we were like, “Go get it, bro.” Laughing, of course. We all knew it wasn’t worth the risk — one wrong move, and it’s curtains.

So the masked snowboarder? He walked. All the way down. 12km. On foot. On Christmas. On my birthday. In ski boots.

We haven’t let him live it down since.

If you were showing a tourist around your hometown — the old Sophiatown (now Westbury), and Eldos — what would you show them?

I wouldn’t just show them places, I’d take them through the story. We’d start at the Sophiatown Heritage Centre. It’s got that rich history — the jazz era, the resilience, the creativity and a very big reason for our democracy today. It's like walking through the heartbeat of where so many legends came from. I’d probably crack a joke about how if walls could talk, these ones would sing kwela and tell you stories your ouma wouldn’t want you to hear.

Then we’d head into Westbury. I’d show them the murals, take them down the streets I used to walk as a kid, and stop for a proper bunny chow or AK-47 (a foot-long roll with all the junk you can think of) — not that watered-down one, but the messy, juicy one that leaks all over your fingers and makes you question your life choices. And I’d tell them the story of how I once tried to impress someone by eating a full bunny chow… standing up… in white pants. Let’s just say, lesson learned.

Finally, we’d roll into Eldos, and I’d take them to one of those spots with a view — the kind where the city stretches out in front of you, and you can feel every memory rising with the wind. We’d play some old-school tracks, probably share a laugh about how we used to run around there thinking we were invincible. I’d just let them feel the spirit of the place — because once it gets into you, it never really leaves.

And of course I’d take them to the houses that I grew up in. Always great memories and magic visiting where you come from.

What's your favourite international city? Why? 

It has to be Hong Kong. The people are respectful, smart and competent; the energy is electric; and there’s always something happening — from bustling street markets to sleek rooftop lounges. It’s a place that feels alive 24/7.

What I love most is the contrast. It’s this beautiful, unexpected mix of urban jungle and actual jungle. One minute you’re surrounded by skyscrapers and neon lights, the next you’re hiking through lush trails in the country parks, with panoramic views and pockets of stillness that feel a world away from the city.

It’s a true melting pot — cultures, languages, food, fashion — all layered into one compact island. You meet people from all over the world, and somehow it just works. There’s an eclectic, global energy that hits you the moment you land, and it stays with you long after you’ve left.

Describe your perfect day’s itinerary there.

My perfect day in Hong Kong is a vibe from the moment I wake up. I’d start the morning in a beautiful hotel — something high up with floor-to-ceiling views of the skyline and the harbour, like The Upper House or The Peninsula. Coffee in hand, robe on, watching the city come alive beneath me.

Then it’s straight into a local-style breakfast. Probably some dim sum at a classic spot like Tim Ho Wan — because you haven’t really done Hong Kong until you’ve had dumplings with tea in the chaos of the morning rush.

From there, I’d catch the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour — it’s short, it’s simple, but it never gets old. That breeze, the view of the skyline… it just does something to you. I’d spend a bit of time exploring the streets of Central or Sheung Wan, maybe pop into a few galleries or local design stores. Then it’s off to hike the Dragon’s Back trail — that’s my “jungle escape.” Fresh air, ocean views and a moment to recharge above the madness.

Lunch? Somewhere beachy — maybe in an area such as Shek O or Repulse Bay. Barefoot in the sand, seafood on the table, sun on my face.

The afternoon would be all about the markets — maybe Temple Street or the Ladies’ Market — just to get lost in the colours, the sounds, and the mix of old and new. Then I’d sneak in a massage or a spa treatment (because, why not?).

As the sun sets, I’d head to a rooftop bar like Ozone at the Ritz-Carlton or Sevva to watch the lights flicker on across the skyline while sipping something smooth. Then dinner somewhere with a view, maybe Mott 32 or something local and low-key in a tucked-away alley, because Hong Kong’s got both sides and I love both.

Night ends with a walk along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade — city lights on the water, a little jazz in the background and that feeling of “Yo, this city’s got soul.”

Then it’s back to my room — maybe a bubble bath, maybe just lights out with the curtains wide open — watching Hong Kong glow while I fade into sleep.

Are you an adventurous eater when you travel? What’s the weirdest thing you’ve tried? 

I used to be pretty adventurous when it came to food — but I think I’ve ticked that box now. One of the wildest things I’ve tried was crocodile, back home in South Africa. In Hong Kong, I actually went on a mission to find fried spiders, scorpions, maybe even snake… but luckily (or maybe fatefully), I didn’t come across any. Honestly, I’m not mad about it.

The one thing I always make sure I do on holiday is … 

I find at least one local spot — whether it’s a tiny restaurant, a hidden beach or a backstreet market — where I can just slow down, take it all in and feel like I’m living there, not just visiting. That’s where the real magic is — in the unplanned moments and unexpected places.

A memorable restaurant I ate in overseas was …  

I can’t remember the name of the pizzeria, but I’ll never forget how I felt. I was performing in Monaco with African Footprint. It felt like I was living in a movie. My face was on posters all over the city — I was literally plastered across Monaco.

We performed at the iconic Salle des Étoiles — Monaco’s premier theatre venue — sharing a stage that had hosted legends like Toto, Lionel Richie and more. It was surreal. The European audiences have such a deep respect for theatre; they don’t just watch, they feel it. I’d walk along the promenade — the same street where the F1 Grand Prix kicks off — and get stopped by people who recognised me from the show. A few times, pizzeria owners would call me in, sit me down, and say, “Tonight, you eat whatever you want. It’s on the house.” It was wild. Humbling. Beautiful.

Where is the best place in the world for a night out? Why?

Hong Kong. There’s this incredible sense of freedom in the city — a kind of organised chaos that somehow just works. You’ve got towering skyscrapers all around you, but then you slip into a little alleyway and suddenly you’re in a whole different world — hidden gems, local eats, unexpected moments. It’s those contrasts — the fast pace, the still corners, the people from everywhere — that make it unforgettable.

When travelling, I am a sucker for...

Massive mountains and huge bodies of water.

What country has the most welcoming/friendly locals?

Anywhere in Africa.

Is there any place where the locals struck you as particularly tricky? If so, why?  

I was in the eastern part of Germany for a while. As a person of colour, you’re still not welcomed in certain areas. I hope that’s changed. We had some skinheads spin their car in the middle of the road, they all hopped out of the car and did a Hitler salute. Not fun.

My perfect holiday involves …

A mix of adventure and relaxation. I love exploring new places, whether it’s hiking through nature, discovering hidden gems in the city or diving into local culture. But I also make sure there’s plenty of downtime to recharge — lounging on a beach, reading by the pool, or just sipping coffee at a quiet café. A little balance of both keeps things exciting and refreshing.

My most relaxing destination is ...

The Kruger National Park is my ultimate reset. No phones, no signal — just me, the road  and nature in all its raw beauty. There’s something truly magical about seeing animals in their natural habitat. It’s an experience everyone should have at least once. It’s even better when you’re with a couple of friends, sharing those moments together. Cruising at no faster than 40 km/h, you’re not just on a drive — you’re fully immersed in the park’s rhythm, letting the sights and sounds wash away the stress, one breathtaking view at a time.

One tourist attraction/place that everyone should see before they die? 

The Kruger National Park is hands down my favourite place in the world. If you haven’t been, you’re definitely missing out. But what really makes it special is driving yourself through it — it’s a completely different experience compared to having a ranger. There’s something about being in control of your own journey, taking in the sights and sounds at your own pace and truly feeling immersed in the wild. It’s an unforgettable adventure. Doing it with a game vehicle and ranger makes it feel like I’m cheating, but when we are on our own we see the magic unfold.

One tourist attraction that surprised you? 

I know it’s a classic and I might be stepping on some toes here, but when I saw the Mona Lisa, I couldn’t help but feel like it was a bit overrated. I get that it’s iconic, but it didn’t have quite the impact I expected. I can definitely see why people love it, but for me, it didn’t hit the way I thought it would.

Favourite museum?

Probably the Exploratorium in San Francisco. It’s an interactive science museum filled with hands-on exhibits that explore physics, biology, and human perception. It felt like I had walked into the home of Bill Nye the Science Guy. It was pretty cool.

Do you have a favourite hotel?

The Marriot in Hong Kong was super impressive. Great rooms, great views, great food, great service, everything just great.

When I meet/see South African travellers/tourists overseas I think … 

Depending on how long I’ve been away, it really varies. If it’s been a while, I actually love bumping into fellow South Africans abroad — there’s something comforting about hearing a familiar accent and sharing a quick laugh or story. But if it’s just a short getaway, I’m usually not looking for that. No offence, beautiful Saffa fam — I just like to feel like I’ve truly stepped into another world. Otherwise, I might as well have stayed home.

What’s your ultimate bucket-list destination?

This one’s been on my list for the longest time. I’ve been fascinated by the aurora borealis since I was a kid — there’s just something otherworldly about it. I’d love to experience it in Norway, under a sky full of dancing lights, with huskies pulling a sled through the snow. That kind of magic feels like something straight out of a dream.

• Catch Jaftha in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Theatre on the Bay from May 15 until July 12, and in Johannesburg at the Pieter Toerien Theatre at Montecasino from July 18 until September 28. Tickets are priced from R200 and can be purchased here.