Local theatre actor takes his craft to new heights

Thembisa resident Keorapetse Samson is making waves in the theatre industry.

Intent on making a name for himself in the industry and improving his life, the Jiyana High School Grade 11 learner is pursuing his goals of acting and poetry.

At 15, he began pursuing his passion for the performing arts at Moduopo Primary School, where Mam Radebe taught him.

In 2019, Samson competed in a primary school and placed second at events hosted at the Germiston and Kempton Park civic centres.

ALSO READ: Young local actor works hard to make his dream come true

“In 2021, I was exposed to theatre under the guidance of the award-winning theatre practitioner Vusi Nkwenkwezi.

I have been interested in acting since I was a small child because it allows me to portray the successes and setbacks of everyday life. I like using my fictitious characters to illustrate the struggles we all face in life.

“The goal is to motivate myself and others since it bothers me to see others my age making poor decisions. Instead, we should use our God-given abilities and talents to help prevent alcohol and drug abuse,” said Samson.

“I performed in many plays, such as Woza Albert, Maya ke maboya, Kgapha tsa Skatana and more.”

Samson said last year, he fell in love with poetry writing and reciting.

“I wrote Sesotho poems and performed them in schools, churches and community halls.”

ALSO READ: Kempton Park actor shoots for the stars

He came second in the Gauteng Department of Arts and Culture school competition.

In addition to his achievements, Samson performed at the MSC Business College Graduation Ceremony and was invited as a guest of honour from the 1632 Ward 11 Soup Kitchen.

Samson has written 28 poems and is looking forward to launching his first book, Kgapha tsa Kgutsana.

“One of my favourite things to do is to write and perform poems because it lets me express my feelings aloud and raise awareness of various subjects in the hopes that others find the message compelling.”