Robert was born and brought up in Johannesburg. He was educated at St. Martins School. He went to London and studied textile and furniture design, and then Drama at the Drama Studio in Ealing, West London.
Robert returned to Jo'burg and appeared on stage in a number of productions such as A Little Night Music, Gypsy, and notably Otherwise Engaged. He recently starred in Congo: The Trial of King Leopold 11 with John Kani.
Also at the Market Theatre, he directed The Native Who Caused All the Trouble, Gertrude Stein and a Companion and most recently he directed Lebo Thoko in The Man Jesus. He also mentored Director William Harding with his play The Kings of the World.
Robert’s television career began in 1977 with the 1st English language production on SABC – Anouilh’s Ring Round the Moon. Over the years he appeared in numerous productions both local and international –such as Shaka Zulu, Going Up and The Importance of Being Earnest. He is best known for his portrayal of Barker Haines in the long-running Isidingo.
As to films: The most recent is Dark Tower and Sew the Winter to my Skin. In the eighties, Robert appeared in the film Sarafina and The Native who Caused All the Trouble. He was in Mr Bones as well.
Robert is a consummate performer and creative developer of Drama both on stage and screen. He is also influential in the genre of collaborative pieces such as: Ain’t We Got Fun and Indecent Exposure.
He has contributed greatly to the creation of new South African work.
Please email Yolinda Du Plessis at yolinda@mlasa.com for bookings and further information.
