Pienaar theatre director’s new play will explore spirituality and resilience

A poignant exploration of spirituality, tradition and modernity that sparks vital conversations about faith, resilience and the human existence.

These were the words Dumsane Masilela used to describe his forthcoming play, Imfihlo.
Masilela, originally from Pienaar, said his journey in theatre began in Grade Seven at Msogwaba Primary when he joined a group called Sivuka Africa, directed by Netto Maluka.

“When I was in Grade 10, my friend, Percy Mavuso, and I started our own group called Sijulile Creative Group, for which I was directing plays with young people.”

He said after matric, he aspired to pursue film and television production at the Tshwane University of Technology.

Although the interview was successful, financial constraints hindered his enrolment. “Undeterred, I opted for a national diploma at TUT Mbombela. When I got in, there was no drama club. I then started a drama, poetry and dance society in 2012. In 2015, I became a drama coach/director at TUT and in 2017, I became one at the University of Mpumalanga,” said Masilela.

He currently owns G7 Theatre Productions, which aims to create opportunities for unemployed talented youth.

“I wrote and directed a number of plays, which include Do Not Take the Mark of the Beast, Thula Africa, Vulamazulu, KaMasango, Voice of the Voiceless, Sabela, 1652 and others.”

He is currently preparing for Imfihlo, which will be showcased at the City of Mbombela Civic Centre. “This powerful play, acted by seven compelling characters, draws from real-life experiences. It’s a soul-stirring African play,” Masilela said.

ALSO READ: Sabie’s roller skater on his way to success

He acknowledged the late Mcedisi Shabangu, who was a theatre practitioner, for polishing his writing and directing talent.

“He taught me aspects of theatre I was not educated in. He instilled in me a passion for nurturing new talent in theatre. He envisioned Mpumalanga, a province brimming with artistic potential, taking centre stage,” he said.

ALSO READ: Annual eMkhondo matric prayer session instils hope

“I invite aspiring actors, writers and directors to join me in revolutionising Mpumalanga’s theatre landscape.”