Antony Makatu, also known as Tony Mactony, is on a mission to find hidden talent among aspiring local actors, and to achieve this, he plans on organising an acting workshop at the Thohoyandou Indoor Sports Centre on 17 June.
The workshop aims to refine Limpopo-based actors' skills and establish connections with other actors, acting coaches, and directors.
The multi-talented actor from Makwarela has acted in popular television dramas such as Muvhango (SABC 2), The Estate (SABC 3), and Giyani Land of Blood (SABC 2), and he is currently portraying a sheriff on etv's telenovela, The Black Door. Furthermore, he is a well-known musician and has gained experience in various other fields as well, such as journalism and graphic design. He is a founder of MAC97 Media.
His ultimate goal with the workshop is to see young talent well trained for the industry. "Acting is a glamorous profession that many aspire to break into. However, having a successful career in film and television requires more than just being a good actor. You need to develop other essential skills, such as scriptwriting."
Tony Mactony says he recognises the desire in so many individuals who want to join the industry but lack the necessary skills. "I want to bring in well-known actors such as Zonke Mchunu, who plays Imani, and Carol Netshingulu, who plays Shumi on Muvhango, to contribute their expertise to helping our local talent. I want them to gain confidence, learn how to nail auditions, and learn how to relieve stress through creative expression. The workshop will also assist them on how to become comfortable with vulnerability, build connections in a positive environment and communicate effectively, like pros. I believe that the workshop will serve as a stepping stone towards a career in acting, or simply as a means of personal growth and self-discovery," he said.