adminThe Mabvuku-based actor highlighted that locals should stop crying foul over the move but count on their own to bring back life to local television.
“The ball is now in our court to fill in the gap left by South African soaps. We have talented actors, writers and directors but what is left is proper training and commitment to reach those levels. Some might argue that it does not pay much but the yields will be recognised eventually. It now boils down to passion and believing in ourselves to make this work,” he said.
Mangawe added that promoting local productions will not only help improve their quality but promote competition that will measure up to international standards.
“There is no denying that the likes of ‘Muvhango’ and ‘Generations’ were popular in all corners of the country, but it is time for us to create our own productions that people can fall in love with.
That way we promote our culture as well as address critical social issues,” he said.
He said such a move would help raise the profile of local artistes to international acclaim while gaining mileage for the nation as a whole. The 28-year-old is among the highest rated artistes in the country and has evolved from his days at Mabvuku Cultural Drama Club. So far he has made a name for himself through productions “Half Empty Half Full”,
“Hold My Hand” “Election Day”, which earned him accolades at Nama.
Mangawe also plays “Jedza” in Munya Chidzonga’s “Lobola” and will soon be gracing the small screen in August with the upcoming production “Salon.com Joe Njagu.
He said that he sees himself directing five years from now.
Online Reporter