Brian Jokozela brings theatre with a purpose back to Midrand
Local award-winning speech and drama educator Brian Jokozela is reviving The Magic Dustbin, a musical that challenges adults to lead by example and raise a kinder generation.
Baobulb Drama Academy is set to revive The Magic Dustbin, a vibrant musical theatre production written and directed by South African speech and drama educator Brian Jokozela.
The production delivers a timely message about love triumphing over hate and challenges parents, teachers, and community leaders to reflect on the values they pass on to children. The enchanting story follows a magical dustbin that mysteriously transforms a divided community consumed by greed and prejudice into one rooted in kindness and compassion.
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Beneath the colourful costumes and lively musical numbers lies a deeper message that children learn from what they see. The play confronts the harmful impact of adults who model discrimination or intolerance, and instead calls for positive role-modelling grounded in empathy and understanding.
“The Magic Dustbin is a call to action,” said Jokozela. “We need to teach our children the value of empathy, kindness, and understanding. As adults, we have a responsibility to shape their worldview and encourage them to become agents of change.”
The production was last staged at the Tshwane Youth Arts Festival, held at the South African State Theatre in 2017. Now, nearly a decade later, Baobulb Drama Academy is breathing new life into the play.
The revival comes with fresh creative energy and insights gained from Jokozela’s recent training as a musical theatre facilitator at the National Children’s Theatre.
The revamped production will feature learners from Summerhill College and Midrand Innovative Learning Centre, with auditions also opened to children from the broader Midrand community. Auditions were held at the Midrand Innovative Learning Centre in Noordwyk on February 14.
Participants will undergo intensive musical theatre training before heading into rehearsals and, ultimately, performances at eisteddfods, school drama competitions and festivals across the country.
Beyond performance skills, the academy aims to instil confidence, discipline, and social awareness in its young cast members.
“At Baobulb Drama Academy, drama, comedy, and sarcasm, we teach it all,” Jokozela added, emphasising the academy’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded performers who can both entertain and inspire.
For more information about The Magic Dustbin or to join the academy, locals can WhatsApp Brian Jokozela on 063 1826 508 or email baobulb@gmail.com
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