"I love Durban. Quite surprisingly, Durban is a melting pot of creativity," says Michael. "It is home to a host of talented people and so many creative ideas are born here. Even though the city of Durban can't support the magic being created by its inhabitants, the magic continues to flow. We don't have the money or the resources that our sister cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town have so we have to make the magic less with technology and more with cunning and guile. On another level, I have lived here my entire life, it's the place I know, so it's also a part of who I am."
For a number of years, Nick Barnes has manned the DWR Durban branch alone, but now he is thrilled to have a colleague. For now, a broad description of Michael's role at DWR will encapsulate consulting on theatrical and entertainment ventures, conducting training courses, conceiving and exploring novel ways of demonstrating new products to the marketplace.
"It's thrilling to be involved in the world of entertainment," said Michael. "We are all still children at heart and I think the great Max Reinhardt summed it up pretty well when he said 'I believe in the immortality of the Theatre, it is a most joyous place to hide, for all those who have secretly put their childhood in their pockets and run off and away with it, to play on to the end of their days.' I intend to keep playing."
"This opportunity gives a fresh start to my life and offers so much on all fronts; I have new creative opportunities, I can teach and mentor (both very close to my heart and I love the idea of being available to pass on whatever knowledge and experience I have gained over the years to youngsters 'cutting their teeth' in the industry). I will be part of a fantastic team and I will be home more with my fledgling family. Becoming part of the DWR team has been very timeous and I am so looking forward to this new season in my life.
"For too long I have shelved many of my own creative ventures because I've been too busy realising someone else's. It is extremely satisfying to see that despite the fact that DWR Distribution are a fairly large organisation, every single employee has managed to retain their own identity. The obvious conclusion is that at DWR one is given the freedom to express oneself in a way that suits them.
"There's a quote that says 'If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door'. In other words, if the creative opportunities aren't forthcoming, I'll manufacture them."
Said Duncan Riley of DWR: "There is so much we will learn from Michael. He is a good friend, we've had great times together in the past and really are looking forward to the future."
(LSi Online)
