Written by Nomvelo Msango.
Like many other South Africans, I cherish the time spent curled up on my couch with my TV remote in hand.
I enjoy a good show, and BBC Lifestyle’s Come Dine With Me SA is on my list of favourites. The beautiful blend of culinary creativity, friendly competition and occasional drama makes for the perfect entertainment and easily keeps me glued to my screen.
Now, imagine my joy when I was presented with the opportunity to visit the set of the show!
Upon my arrival on set, the team was already hard at work and it was lights, camera, action!
I found it fascinating how a number of video cameras and other videography equipment turned the Johannesburg home of a contestant into a full-blown television production set.
In true Come Dine With Me style, this episode’s contestants were an interesting bunch.
Carla, Bongani, Nikesh and Joshua all seemed pretty determined to win the prize, and watching how their different personalities contributed to an entertaining show was quite amazing.
As I sat on the couch in Joshua’s home, I witnessed the filming of his dinner party unfold. This was to be the final night of Episode 4, Season 10. He was hosting a ‘night out in New York’ themed dinner party.
Supplied
His dishes included smoked chicken and Waldorf salad, lamb rack with crushed potatoes and grilled asparagus, as well as some cheesecake for dessert.
From the decor, to the outfits and even the dishes, it was clear to see how all the contestants were adamant and took the competition very seriously. A lot of passion, preparation and thought had gone into every detail.
During my set visit, I also had the chance to interact with some of the production crew members. They explained their normal day-to-day life on set, and how they travelled throughout South Africa filming different dinner parties.
I was also able to chat to the contestants, and they were as lively and entertaining off-camera as they were on-screen. Undoubtedly, their camaraderie and competitive spirit added to the excitement of the evening.
Leaving the set, I felt inspired not only by the culinary creativity I had witnessed but also by the sense of community which the show fosters.
I also gained a newfound respect for all the contestants and crew members. Every single person on that set works passionately and tirelessly to bring an excellent and entertaining show to life.
While I have always loved the show, I will definitely grab my remote and tune in with a different level of understanding and appreciation after this experience.
Catch Come Dine With Me South Africa every Wednesday at 20:00 on BBC Lifestyle.
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Feature Image: Supplied
