Talent factory programme launches to assist production alumni

After the academy alumni face options; to enter the industry as production professionals, often as freelancers, or establish their own production companies

Johannesburg - MultiChoice SA has launched its Talent Factory Extended Cut programme to assist MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTFza) alumni, who want to start their own production companies after the internship programme.

Now in its ninth year, MTFza affords film and TV graduates the opportunity to learn from leading TV producers, while acquiring experience in directing, producing, cinematography, commissioning, art direction and many other skills. After the academy alumni face options; to enter the industry as production professionals, often as freelancers, or establish their own production companies.

Under the programme promising and newly established production houses will have access to free production facilities and equipment to increase profitability, and business support services to boost sustainability, and mentorship from professionals.

These production houses will also be able of a video-recorded submission.

A member of the 2021 adjudicators panel, Dr Tiffany Higgo says NEA provides a platform for participants to develop their performing arts talent, while nurturing a love of the arts.

“This is a fantastic stepping stone for the youth to develop talent, confidence, teamwork and communication skills. It is one of the most important youth developments in the country, inclusive, innovative and nurturing,” Higgo says.

The closing date for live performances is 24 February. Video recorded performances can be submitted until 24 March 2023. For more information visit the website www.eisteddfod.co.za.

Johannesburg - The United States consulate, in partnership with the Soweto Theatre will screen the NBC Peacock documentary titled The Rebellious Life of Mrs Rosa Parks at the Soweto Theatre in Jabulani. The film will be shown to celebrate Black History Month, observed every February in the United States to pay tribute to inspiring individuals from the African diaspora who have made significant impact on their communities, both past and present.

Rosa Parks, widely known for her refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama, bus in 1955, played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement.

This award-winning documentary tells the story of how her activism extended far beyond just this one act of defiance, exploring how she devoted herself to the cause of racial justice and equality until her death in 2005. to produce movies for the Mzansi Magic channel.

After the film, there will be a short discussion by a panel consisting of the US Consul General in Johannesburg, Vincent Spera, actor and artistic director for the Joburg City Theatres James Ngcobo and Cynthia Griffin, minister counselor for Commercial Affairs at the US Consulate General Johannesburg.

The conversation will be moderated by the public affairs officer at the US Consulate, Jeff Ladenson.

For more information send an email to DuPlessisC@state.gov, call phone number 079 111 8257 or to matodzi@sowetotheatre. com, phone 060 755 9972.

MultiChoice head of corporate affairs

Tumi Masekela said: “This programme is a culmination of interactions with various stakeholders on how we can help graduates from our programme to gain sustainable employment and make a meaningful contribution to the economy.”

To be eligible, production companies need to be partly or wholly owned by MTFza alumni, 51% black-owned and preference will be given to those owned by youth and women.

“We see this as a win-win for both the alumni and entertainment industry as we will have a pipeline of diverse content from new entrants, increase job creation and a model that provides market access to budding black-owned production companies,” Masekela said.

The programme will be overseen by a team of writers, directors, producers and managers, starting from 1 March this year.