Soshanguve creative artist to star in Rwandan theatre festival

The Citizen

29-06-2025

After a successful run in local theatre showbiz, a 28-year-old is now preparing for a stint to represent South Africa at a Rwandan theatre festival in July.
Born and bred in Soshanguve, Block L, the multitalented Phetho Motshabi's creative spark was lit during his teenage years.
At the age of 16, Motshabi (better known as PJ designer) discovered his love for art was more than just a phase but a calling.
After completing his N6 in fashion at Tshwane North College (TNC), he had his first major breakthrough when he showcased his first runway collection at the prestigious South African State Theatre.
'I have always drawn passion from theatre, and watching theatre shows more often made me pursue performing arts,' said Motshabi.
He said he is the first person in his family to take part in the world of art.
His passion for dramatic arts became a major turning point in his life, leading him to greener pastures where he landed a role as Michael in the show titled 'Don't Shoot', an international award-winning production written and directed by Busisiwe Mazibuko.
Motshabi recalls the challenges he faced in terms of playing the character.
The role challenged him emotionally and mentally.
'It was challenging to explore this character as I had to conduct thorough research to find proper details to master this character.'
He said that over time, he managed to overcome the challenges and began to understand different methods within the acting world.
Motshabi emphasised that his passion to keep going stems from the support he receives from his family, his fans and the community of Soshanguve, as they encourage him with positive remarks.
'Most of the time, people from my community like to say they perceive my emotions when it comes to performing arts. They are saying that watching me performing on the stage makes them tap into my world of emotions.'
With his eyes now set on TV and film, Motshabi is currently working on joining an agency and growing his performance career.
As both a fashion designer and actor, he has brought dynamic energy to the production team.
His contribution to the show has been instrumental on set and behind the scenes, helping to propel the production to award-winning recognition. The production won a Kenyan award and a provincial award for SA theatres.
'Winning the award motivated me to keep on pushing. I believe if you want to achieve something, it is possible. I will not give up because of this wonderful achievement,' he said.
He acknowledged his performance at the State Theatre as one of the dear moments he will cherish for the whole of his lifetime.
'For me to have this big experience, it was through hard work and dedication. I was excited to perform in Kenya, Nairobi, as it was my first time travelling to another country.'
After a successful run at the theatre, Motshabi is preparing to represent South Africa at a Rwandan theatre festival this July.
He encouraged young people who want to follow in his footsteps to focus on what they believe to understand their strength and be passionate about their craft.
Motshabi also described his aspirations to do better in his performing arts career.
'I see myself doing wonderful work on TV and films. I see myself receiving many awards, travelling more often to different countries and portraying big characters on international and local TV shows.'
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