Standerton theatre awakening ignites young talent and revives community spirit
The programme was brought to life through a collaboration with Siyanqoba Performing Arts from Secunda.
Standerton has experienced a powerful revival of the performing arts through the Standerton Theatre Awakening Programme, an inspiring initiative led by Nzambenang Film Production NPC, founded by Wendy Mlangeni.
The programme was brought to life through a collaboration with Siyanqoba Performing Arts from Secunda, with a shared mission to nurture young talent, uplift the community, and reignite a love for theatre among young people.
The journey began with a talent search and auditions held from March 6 to 8. The turnout was overwhelming, revealing raw and untapped talent within the community.
Participants were selected and divided into two groups:
• A senior group (ages 19–26), made up of out-of-school youth
• A junior group (ages 14–18), consisting of secondary school learners
The programme quickly became more than just workshops, it became a space for growth, discipline, and self-discovery. Participants were trained in acting, voice, movement, and storytelling, and over time, a powerful transformation took place.
Confidence grew, creativity flourished, and many who had never performed before began to shine on stage. All the hard work led to the Take a Child to the Theatre event on March 20, which served as the final showcase of the programme.
On the day, the atmosphere was electric. Families, schools, and community members came out in numbers to support the young performers. The stage was filled with energy, laughter, and powerful performances from both the junior and senior groups.
In a historic moment for the community, many learners experienced live theatre for the very first time. Schools that supported this initiative by bringing their learners included Igugulabasha, Nyandeni, Retsibile Primary, Leseli Combined School, Vaalrivier School of Skills and Khulasakhile Secondary School.
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The organisers expressed heartfelt gratitude to these schools for believing in the importance of arts education and for supporting the growth of young talent. Looking ahead, the programme will continue through school tours, where performers will visit different schools to stage productions.
This initiative will not only expose more learners to theatre but will also support unemployed youth, with performances offered at an affordable fee of R5 per learner, creating opportunities for young artists to earn an income.
Behind the success of the programme was a dedicated and passionate team comprising Anele Cele as project coordinator, Chrisilla Plaatjies as project manager, prop master and stage manager, Ayanda Shabalala as administration and social media manager, Leboohang Kgasebe as media manager, Ntabiseng Khanya as musical director and facilitator, Elly Mokoena as media coordinator, Mandla Sibia as facilitator, director and choreographer, and Wendy Mlangeni as creative director, writer, facilitator and founder.
Despite facing challenges such as limited funding and transport, the team remained committed. Plans to travel to Secunda to celebrate World Theatre Day on March 27 had to be cancelled, but the spirit of theatre continued.
Instead, participants were encouraged to create their own performances—ranging from solo acts to group productions—focusing on joy, creativity, and celebration of theatre.
“The Standerton Theatre Awakening Programme has proven that with vision, passion, and teamwork, meaningful change is possible. It has not only showcased talent but has also planted seeds for a brighter future in the arts. Theatre in Standerton is alive, growing, and here to stay,” said project coordinator, Anele Cele.
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