EAST LONDON – A wave of excitement swept through East London’s creative community on Wednesday, 17 September 2025 as local talents gathered at Drifters in Cambridge to audition for a new telenovela film project by Man B Productions.
The auditions, hosted by Man B Music Entertainment, drew in a diverse and enthusiastic crowd of around 48 aspiring actors from across East London. Each participant arrived with high hopes and big dreams, eager to showcase their acting skills and secure a spot in what promises to be a compelling new production.
Founder and Director of Man B Music Entertainment Mlindelwa ‘Man B’ Tyekana, shared the motivation behind the project and the choice of location. “I was approached by someone from KwaZulu-Natal to invest in his production company and I told him that if we’re going to do something, we must start at home in the Eastern Cape,” said Tyekana.
He added that, “We want to showcase the talent in the Eastern Cape and provide opportunities for local artists to grow and develop their skills.”
The telenovela aims not only to entertain but also to educate and inform viewers, with a strong emphasis on social issues affecting today’s youth.
According to the film director Charles Gumede, the storyline will highlight the lives of university students exploring their challenges, triumphs, and the realities they face. Gumede also noted that music would play an integral role in the narrative, adding an authentic and emotional layer to the storytelling.
Following a competitive selection process, 29 individuals were chosen to move forward in the production 23 males and 6 females.
Furthermore, among the selected talents was Awonke Funani from Scenery Park, who couldn’t hide his excitement. “This was my first time auditioning and I’m just thrilled to be one of the chosen ones,” he said with a smile.
Also among the successful candidates were Alive Ndamase and Asemahle Xenti from Mdantsane. “I’m so excited to be selected,” said Ndamase. Xenti, exuding confidence, added, “I knew as I entered that door that I would make it that’s how much I believe in myself.”
The decision to host the auditions in Cambridge was strategic, as the area continues to grow in significance within the film and television industry.
The event not only celebrated the richness of local talent but also served as a platform for new voices to emerge and shine.
With production now underway, Man B Productions is setting the stage for what could be a breakthrough moment for Eastern Cape’s aspiring actors and creatives. The film is expected to make waves both locally and nationally, reinforcing the province’s potential as a creative powerhouse.
Photographs: Siyolise Silayi
