Wits Vuvuzela caught up with 22-year old performer Sandile Mazibuko, known to his peers as “Pistol” for his fiery energy. Born and bred in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, Mazibuko is a Dramatic Arts student in his 3rd year at Wits and made his on-screen debut in the popular SABC3 soapie Isidingo last week. Besides performing he is an avid gamer and enjoys playing Fifa.
When did you fall in love with the arts?
I fell in love with the arts at 15, I was involved in my first performance in Grade 9. I enjoyed entertaining people whether it was through acting or dancing and I can say at 15 I started taking it seriously and considering it as a career.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Yes I do. Not only do I act and dance, I can also rap. I plan on releasing some of my music next month.
If you were not in the arts what other field would you be in?
I have never really thought about it because I put my all into my chosen career path. Personally I have never been the type to have a Plan B, therefore whatever I have chosen has to work. I am not worried about when it’s going to pay or whether I am going to be successful or not. My only worry is am I going to reach the goals I want to reach within that space.
How did you get the Isidingo gig?
The casting director reached out to Wits for actors to audition for the part, I was one of the students that went to the audition. I got a call a few weeks later and I was called by the character’s name, “Mandla” and that is when I knew I had gotten the part.
Who do you want to work with in the industry?
I can’t pin point a specific person. However if you are willing to work and have the same passion and drive as me then I don’t mind. Honestly, as long as we grow as performers within the performance then I am game.
How do you prepare for a performance?
By putting in double the work. I think the more you work, the more you discover. I think one needs to dedicate themselves to the work. The only way one can learn the character is if they put in the work through rehearsals and that is what I do.
What else are you working on?
I am currently in a production choreographed by Grace Barnes titled Breathe. We will be performing this Saturday at the Sibikwa Arts Centre in Benoni.
What piece of advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the arts?
I would tell them to continuously work on their craft. There are a lot of talented people out there but not all of them put in the work. So I believe talent plus hard work usually equals to great success. You might not make it now but eventually your hard work will pay off.