Magic Hlatswayo and Treasure Tshabalala
Lungile Gumede, Thokozane Ngema and Magic Hlatswayo
Set in Soweto, a township bristling with economic optimism, the dramas reflect the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of the community using a backdrop of strong township vigor and visual texture.
“e.tv is proud to give ordinary township viewers a chance to influence expression of their own images. These dramas will capture many moments which define day-to-day township experiences. The dramas are told from authentic township settings which have been etched in the collective memory of many South Africans,” says, e.tv Head of Local Productions, Zanele Mthembu.
The entire five-week schedule was filmed at various locations in Soweto by Seleke Communications. Writer and Director, Vusi Twala, says. “Shooting the dramas in a township environment has allowed us to explore a wealth of images in telling socially relevant stories which are uniquely South African, yet universally appealing. We were very aware that the dramas are being produced at a time where perception of local content is changing and viewers need powerful stories they can relate to.”
The dramas, Mama's Boy, A Good Wife, Chasing the Truth, Abducted and Secret Lovers will take viewers on a journey by exploring the challenges emerging through the pain of a complex and fragmented society. The intriguing stories weave in elements of greed, jealousy, societal values, cultural and gender issues.
Brief information on the dramas
Secret Lovers - October 05
A story of how deception and greed propels a wife to try and steal her husband's money. She ends up losing her husband, the money and her own freedom in the end.
Mama's Boy - October 12
A story about a young man who has to face his fears and cross over to adulthood. The drama takes the viewers through his journey as he tries to strike a balance between making himself and his parents happy.
Abducted - October 19
The story of how love propels a young man. Not to only find his missing lover, but to help in the arrest of a long-wanted criminal as well.
A good wife - October 26
A young woman is faced with the challenge of balancing his cultural role as a woman with the demands of her career.
Chasing the Truth - 02 November
A classic investigative drama of how good triumphs over evil. The story's protagonist (a journalist) is more prudent and meticulous than his violent and fraudulent antagonists (corrupt cops).
Actors:
Some of South Africa's top actors including Magic Hlatswayo (who plays Samuel in Mama's Boy), Treasure Tshabalala (who plays Uncle Godfrey in Mama's Boy), Zenzile Carol Behane (who plays Portia in Secret Lovers), Owen Sejake (who plays Tony in Chasing the Truth), and Ernest Ndlovu (who plays Kate's father on A Good Wife.