THIS week we catch up with local filmmaker Quintin White whose love for storytelling was born at a circus and whose work is recognised internationally.

Reflecting on his journey, White recalled getting lost at a circus and ending up backstage, waiting for the show to pause so they could call his aunt. Instead of panic, the young White was mesmerised.

“Watching performers bring fantasy to life from behind the scenes sparked something in me. I wanted to create stories that transport people.”

He began his career as a child actor, landing roles on South African shows like Generations and Backstage, but his passion quickly shifted behind the camera.

“I started shadowing production managers and first assistant directors, boldly asking to learn on set. That initiative led to directing my first public service announcement through MultiChoice’s Vuka! Awards, my doorway into independent filmmaking.”

He explained his journey as a wild ride, with long nights, rejections, and constant learning. “Each challenge has fuelled my passion for storytelling that both entertains and uplifts.”

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White has also directed musicals for Pinetown Boys musical and beams with pride speaking about the experience. “It was nothing short of magical. I wrote and directed three jukebox musicals at Pinetown Boys High: I Wanna Rock (2014), For Love and Revolution (2016), and Vacancy (2018), in collaboration with the talented girls from Pinetown Girls High. These weren’t typical school plays; we treated them like professional productions.

“We integrated live singing, a student-led band under Ms. Heather Dix, pre-recorded video inserts, and full sound design to create dynamic, multimedia theatre. Each show tackled themes like rebellion, love, and dreams, and the cast delivered with passion. Rehearsals were intense, schedules tight, but the creativity and camaraderie made it all worthwhile. Sadly, the pandemic paused future productions, but the energy of those shows still resonates.”

Asked what he loves about his job, White said it is the magic of collaboration, and how film brings together diverse people, each contributing a piece to the puzzle.

“Writing and directing lets me turn ideas into stories that touch hearts and open minds. There’s a deep thrill in crafting something meaningful from nothing but imagination.

“Every script, every scene, must serve the story – just like in life, every decision should move you closer to your purpose. That’s what I live for: telling bold, beautiful stories that make people feel, think, and connect,” he explained.

Producing Qhakaza for Mzansi Magic and seeing Durban: Creolized Creative City selected at global festivals are among the many highlights in his career.

“But my real highlight is always the same; watching an idea that started in my head come alive on screen. Whether it’s a narrative short or a cultural documentary, that moment when the lights dim and an audience connects with the story, that’s pure magic. It’s why I keep doing this, to create work that moves people and bridges hearts.”

Lights, camera and action!

He said his films, created with longtime collaborator Ashwin Singh, centre on South African narratives with global relevance.

“Playtime is a short, anti-fairytale set in a crumbling rural village. It follows a young girl’s quest for healing in a harsh world where children work while adults play. It challenges traditional storytelling norms and won Best Short Film and Best International Short at various festivals.

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“Our documentary, Durban: Creolized Creative City, was inspired by Durban’s 2017 designation as a UNESCO City of Literature. Partnering again with The Singh Siblings, we captured the city’s literary heartbeat — through authors, poets, booksellers, and cultural voices. It’s been screened at festivals in Amsterdam, New York, and is currently in competition at the Global Nonviolent Film Festival, representing South Africa among 29 countries.

“Both projects are rooted in a passion for cultural storytelling and a desire to connect local voices with global audiences,” said White.

He added that he is currently developing a new film project, one that challenges perceptions and dives deep into the South African experience.

“In between, I stay sharp by producing corporate films, music videos, and commercials, each one a chance to flex different storytelling muscles.”

His goal is to continue pushing creative boundaries and making films that resonate on streaming platforms, at international festivals, or on a cellphone screen.

“The journey is far from over, and I’m excited for what’s next.”

When he is not on set, White is usually in the water — open-water swimming, especially the Midmar Mile, keeps him grounded.

His hobbies includes travelling, which he says fuels his creativity.

“Camping under the stars helps me reconnect with nature and reset.”

Socialising is another big part of White’s life. Whether it’s a braai with old friends or sharing stories with new ones, those moments recharge his passion.

“These hobbies keep me balanced and pour fresh energy into the stories I tell.”

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