Boost in creativity

The Banareng e-Theatre is working hard to bring creativity to the Kaalfontein community.

Established in 2014 by Kwena Mphela and Fhumulani Mulidzwi, the theatre changed from being a private company to an non-profit organisation in November. CEO of the theatre, Kwena Mphela, said that she started the theatre while she was the head of maths at Umqhele Comprehensive School where she coordinated cultural activities with the learnersz.

She then decided to take the projects on full-time and established the theatre. The theatre has hosted a number of small events in various venues but has developed its own theatre space open to the community. “I think its so important to start this space, because many people aren’t exposed to theatre and creativity here on a regular basis.”

Mphela added that the theatre also acts as a safe place for children in Kaalfontein where they can stay away from a lot of social ills such as truancy and alcohol abuse.

The theatre runs an after-school programme with schoolchildren in the local community, inviting them to learn drama, poetry and dance among other things while also giving additional maths lessons.

Mphela said, “I believe creativity and culture is core. If we divorce ourselves from cultural activities we will struggle. It helps with so much.

“If you want to be a scientist or doctor, a good amount of creativity or a release through creativity will help these children so much. The basics is culture.”

Co-director of the theatre Fhumulani Mulidzwi said, “We want to help kids with culture and more activities… I think the most important thing is to give them a safer environment. We are able to help them in every way we can.”

The Banareng e-Theatre is looking for any partnerships or funding to assist in their operations next year.

Details: Kwena Mphela 078 132 8635.

Related Article: 

https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/231124/beaulieu-college-learners-show-their-artistic-side/