Actor launches debut novel

Karen Watkins|Published 2 years ago

Astrid Radermacher, of Observatory, with David Viviers, who has published his first novel, Mirage.

Actor David Viviers launched his debut novel, Mirage, to a packed Book Lounge on Wednesday March 2.

Mr Viviers has performed in several stage, TV and film productions, including the Black Sails series. In 2014, he received the Standard Bank Ovation Award for his performance in Salt at the National Arts Festival. He was also a recipient, in 2016, of a Kanna Award for “best debut work” and the Brett Goldin Bursary.

In conversation with his UCT creative writing mentor and 2021 Booker Prize winner for The Promise, Damon Galgut, Mr Viviers said his book was inspired by Olive Schreiner and her life.

Set in the Karoo, the story moves between 19th century diarist Elizabeth and present-day university student Michael, who is living in Hatfield Street with a cat.

Metaphysics, mystery, rocks, stars, flowers, Karoo landscape and death are prominent themes, according to the author who admits to a fascination with black holes since childhood.

Ben van Wyk of Bellville, right, has his book signed by author David Viviers.

Booker Prize winner Damon Galgut, of Green Point, with Elmari Rautenbach, of Kenilworth.

Jordan Tane, of Century City, with Jacqueline-Ann Pienaar, of Milnerton.

From left, Gita Fourie and Izette Blignaut, both from Durbanville, with Nina Smit, from Vredekloof.

Umuzi publishers Catriona Ross, of Plumstead, and Frieda Leroux, of Observatory.

Camilla Wolfson and Julian Place, both from Gardens.

Jalna Schumann, of Adelaide, Australia, middle, with her brother, Peter Schumann, and her sister, Hester Shortt-Smith, both from Camps Bay.

Diane Van Eyssen, of Tygervalley, with Anton Pienaar, of Milnerton.

Margie Johnson, of Rondebosch with Liz O’Shaughnessy, of Observatory.