From nurturing community talent to tackling serious social issues through film, Kokotela Theatre Production is using the power of storytelling to inspire change and encourage conversations about challenges affecting communities.
Established in June 2020, Kokotela Theatre Production is a community-based initiative founded by Tsusang Molefe and Sello Motloheloa. The production aims to create opportunities for talented individuals to showcase their abilities within their communities and at different venues. Through theatre and film, the group provides a platform for aspiring performers to express themselves, develop their skills and share stories that reflect the realities of society. The production is supported by an executive team comprising Jessica Mavhunga, Andiswa Mabaso, Likho Tshalani and Hope Tshisikhawe.
One of the production’s upcoming projects is The Heart, a film created by Molefe, also known as Cross Chainzii. The movie explores serious social challenges, including human trafficking, violence against women, drug-related activities, corruption and rape.
Molefe said the inspiration behind the film came from witnessing the disturbing reality of human trafficking, particularly the trafficking of girls in South Africa. Explaining the meaning behind the title, he questioned the lack of compassion shown towards victims of abuse and exploitation. “I feel like most people abanazwelo, abananhliziyo. Buphi Ubuntu, iphi inhliziyo if you are abusing other people?” Molefe said, expressing concern about the suffering caused by violence and exploitation.
He also questioned the ongoing violence against women and girls, asking: “Why are you killing our girls like that?” Through The Heart, Molefe hopes to bring these painful realities to the attention of audiences and encourage greater awareness of the dangers facing vulnerable people.
The film’s themes also reflect the importance of communities working together to confront drug-related activities, corruption and sexual violence. By bringing these issues to the screen, the production aims to encourage conversations that can contribute to a safer and more compassionate society.
Beyond filmmaking, Kokotela Theatre Production continues to focus on its broader mission of helping community members showcase their talents and gain opportunities to perform in different places. The initiative demonstrates how community arts can create opportunities for emerging creatives while using storytelling to highlight issues that deserve public attention.
The production is preparing to launch The Heart on 31 October 2026 at Kokotela, 10 KwaMnguni, next to Vhumboni Day Care.As the launch approaches, the team hopes the film will resonate with audiences and remind communities of the importance of protecting one another, standing against abuse and upholding the values of Ubuntu.
Through its work in theatre and film, Kokotela Theatre Production is continuing to build a platform where local talent can shine and meaningful stories can be told.
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