Mxolisi Masilela

Mxolisi Masilela, 35, is a theatre-maker and the founder, chief executive and artistic director of The TX Theatre in Thembisa. Born in Madelakufa informal settlement, Mxolisi as a child was immersed in drums, dance and dusty street rehearsals. Without formal qualifications, he has built his career through hands-on experience, community involvement and pursuit of artistic excellence. He has trained with the Windybrow Theatre and Australia’s National Institute of Dramatic Art, but it is his two decades of experience in grassroots groups and venues like the Market Theatre that have shaped his practice. At The TX Theatre, he juggles artistic direction, fundraising, production and administration, all while mentoring young people and curating socially resonant performances. His days blend scriptwriting and collaboration — a rhythm that sustains his craft and his commitment to independent art. Internationally, Mxolisi’s work has reached the University of Michigan and Georgetown University, and is an International Society for the Performing Arts Global Fellow. He is currently directing HA-YA, a collaborative project spanning South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Hold no formal qualification but have more than two decades of hands-on experience in the theatre industry. Structured training was completed through a short course at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Australia and, in 2010, at the Windybrow Theatre. These remain the two formal institutions where structured training was received. The majority of learning has come through practice. Significant time has been spent creating and performing at the Market Theatre, the State Theatre and the Windybrow Theatre. As a theatre maker, education has also come from reading books once sold outside the Market Theatre and from consistently attending theatre masterclasses and training programmes over the years. This journey has been rooted in lived experience, constant learning and a deep commitment to the craft.

• One of the most defining projects has been The TX Theatre. Founding it, building it from the ground up and growing it into a respected, award-winning space for independent theatre in South Africa has been a journey driven by vision, resilience and purpose. It is not just a building; it is a movement and a home for artists who often go unseen.
• Another milestone that shaped an international outlook was serving as a Visiting Artist at the University of Michigan, working with Professor Anita Gonzalez. This opportunity marked an international directorial debut and made it possible to teach theatre-making methodologies within a prestigious academic setting. That experience extended to Georgetown University, contributing to the foundation of a collective of international artists committed to global collaboration and cross-cultural storytelling.
• Time spent in the UK with the Woodshed Collective was also transformative. It provided space to explore new methodologies in theatre-making and reinforced the value of experimentation within the creative process.
• A recent honour is selection for the ISPA Global Fellowship, which includes annual participation in New York for the next three years. This platform offers access to influential artistic leaders and further strengthens a commitment to the global stage.
• Currently serving as director of HA-YA, an international co-production between The TX Theatre and the University of California. This multi-city project, spanning South Africa, the UK and the US, exemplifies how international collaboration can produce work greater than the sum of its parts.

A few people have been admired for different reasons throughout this journey. My mother, for the strength and grace she showed in raising us as a single parent. Debby Aurmonas, an incredible woman who provided the opportunity to travel to Australia and broaden my horizons. Professor Anita Gonzalez and Dr Refiloe Lepere have both been pillars of academic guidance and wisdom. Warona Seane, an inspiring director whose work and leadership have had a deep influence. There are many more, but these are just a few who have truly shaped my path.