In recent years, radio and TV presenter Nardine Farag, delved into acting and proved that she’s got the talent and skills to make it in her new career. eniGma’s Gina El Alfy met with Farag for an interesting conversation on her latest role this Ramadan, as Souad in the series, Qasr El Nile, her participation in the Pharoah’s Golden Parade and what lies ahead!
How did you prepare for Soad in Qasr El Nile?
First, when they called me for the show, I was super excited as it is a completely different role for me, especially with the plot taking place in the 60’s, which I find super interesting. It was obvious from the papers how this character has many inner struggles. Of course, I benefited from workshops, but shadowing other actors in the cast gave me even more experience.
What are the similarities and differences between you and the character you play?
There are huge differences! Soad is not independent at all; when her father decided to marry her off, she went ahead. She did not try to defend her thoughts or ideas. She is a follower who can’t stand up for herself. I, on the other hand, have many dreams and am ambitions. I feel that I am stronger than Soad, for sure. 
What was the biggest challenge in your role as Soad?
The biggest challenge was that Soad’s character is completely different from mine. Becoming Soad was a challenge.
What is your take on Soad’s character development throughout the show?
Surely she developed a lot. At first, she was very hesitant and weak and kept herself locked up in her room while her husband was in love with someone else. By the end of the series, when the character of Mansour asked Soad to spy for him, she refused! That’s when you feel the growth of Soad; she matured and was able to put her foot down.
What is your favourite scene for Soad?
I have a lot of scenes with Ahmed Khaled Saleh. He is such a great actor and was able to develop himself in such a great way in a short time. I enjoyed the scene when I confessed to loving someone else, I really did cry.
Was acting your main target since you started your career in the media and television industry?
No, it was not my target. I was first offered to start acting in 2010 but I always refused, although I was already on the radio since 2007. I was always being told that I should consider acting and that I have the charisma for it. After some time, I began to see acting as an interesting path even though it wasn’t similar at all to presenting on TV.
Can acting replace your passion for presenting and broadcasting?
It will never replace it, but as of now, I’m very selective about what I choose to present. With presenting, I’ve reached satisfaction, but with acting, there is so much I still need to discover. Perhaps I would like to broadcast a society related program, which would have an impact on people. I once participated in a show where I toured the streets with a woman driving a microbus, and it was real and truthful.
What do you think about your participation in the Pharaoh’s Golden Parade? How do you see the feedback of this event?
We all saw how amazing it was! It took me about five days to prepare for the program, especially memorizing and understanding everything I had to say. For me, it wasn’t an option to read off a paper in front of His Excellency, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi – out of respect for the event, and for him of course!
As for cinema, are you planning to take part in films?
Surely, if there is a good role, I will go for it! It would be a huge step, especially when there is the support of a successful cast, director and scriptwriter.
What are your upcoming projects?
For now, I’m taking a break! If an idea for a brilliant social program comes up then I will definitely take part in it, but unfortunately finding a well-prepared team with creative ideas is rare.
