Mandisi Sindo – Manbox Man Crush Monday

Mandisi Sindo also known as “Dr Disi” is a South African actor. He is a Founder and an Artistic Director of a Cape Town based non profit company known as “Theatre4Change Arts Projector” and the Co-Founder & Artistic Director of the Fleur Du Cap Award winning Shack Theatre Makukhanye Art Room in Khayelitsha.

In 2017 he started to build a Shack Art School in Khayelitsha known as Khayelitsha Art School and Rehabilitation Centre – (KASIRC). Mandisi hosts a radio show every Sundays at Radio Khaltsha 97.1 FM  alongside his wife, Liso Sindo. He has a Diploma in Theatre & Perfoming Arts from UCT.

How do you introduce yourself?

I’m Dr Disi. I’m a theatre practitioner.

What other profession you’d pursue other than the creative path that you are in?

I think I’d be an Accountant or a Salesman. I’m convinced sales require a little bit of acting – don’t you think?

What wakes up every morning besides your alarm?

Besides my daughter calling my name. It’s the sound of the township. This place gives me insatiable passion – so much talent that needs to be nurtured here.

 

Tell us about Makukhanye Art Room? Where do you see it in the next 5 years?

The Makukhanye Art Room in Khayelitsha is more than just a theatre. It is home for township talent and a refuge for artists from outside the township. We host regular workshops and festivals providing a platform for young talent.

In the next 5 years we want it to be a “proper” theatre not just a shack and to inspire other young people to create theatre in their areas as well. We could be starting a movement here…

Do you think theatre is relevant in our society?

Very much so, as long as we (human being) exists theatre or storytelling will always be part of our lives. Through this form of art we engage, educate and entertain our society.

What’s your winning formula?

Starting a theatre in the township was a “crazy” idea at first. I bet other people have thought about it before BUT they lacked the courage to make take the first step. I don’t call myself a ‘hustler’ because I rely 99% on my instinct, it propels my next move.

What are your career highlights thus far?

Following my passion, I have travelled around the world and in Africa. To mention recent achievements would be the 2017 Fleur Du Cap Winner (Innovation in Theatre) and in 2018 won a Mecca award and being selected amongst 70 other people to the 2018 SADC Theatre Camp in Harare, Zimbabwe.

What’s your routine to stay looking fresh?

I take care of my overall health by exercising and eating well. This body is a tool that I use to bring the bacon at home to my wife and daughter.

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  If we had to put you in BOX – what would you remain as?

I would reinvent myself again.

Grand, grand, what is Manbox to you?

A platform that caters for men’s grooming needs.

Mandisi is a Manbox member – what are you waiting for? Click here to sign up and begin your journey into becoming a better man.

Salute

Anele@MANBOX