Her Story
About Jane Mpholo
Jane Mpholo, a versatile Multidisciplinary Artist and acclaimed Theatre/Film-maker from Botshabelo, South Africa, brings her passion and talent to global stages. Armed with a BA Drama and Theatre Arts Degree from the University of the Free State, Jane has left an indelible mark on local, national, and international platforms. Collaborating with practitioners worldwide, from the Netherlands to the USA and Australia, Jane’s artistic journey is marked by excellence and innovation.
Selected for prestigious residencies like Tankwa and Bodhi Khaya, and representing South Africa at events like the SA Focus week in Singapore, Jane’s achievements are truly remarkable. As a multilingual writer, her works have been showcased at renowned festivals and platforms globally, earning her recognition and acclaim. From her poignant scripts like ‘Fragmented’ to her autobiographical masterpiece ‘Psalm 69,’ Jane’s storytelling resonates with audiences worldwide.
Not confined to the stage, Jane is also a prolific Producer of digital content, with her short film ‘Cleanse’ garnering international acclaim and being nominated for a Kyknet Fiesta award (Proof of Jane’s work to transcend racial and language barriers). She is a seasoned Professional Actor with over 50 theatrical showcases, including standout roles like in Athol Fugard’s ‘The Island,’ Jane’s versatility knows no bounds.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, Jane is a passionate advocate for community development, inclusive education, and social justice. Recognized for her contributions, she’s recognized by prestigious awards like the ‘Mail and Guardian 200 Young SA trailblazers’ and ‘News 24 Young Mandelas of the Future.
Currently based in Bloemfontein, Jane continues to push boundaries and inspire through her pioneering works. Active in roles like panel member of the National Arts Council of South Africa, facilitator at the Tankwa Artist in Residence and senior judge for the World Monologue Games, Jane’s impact extends far beyond the stage. With a commitment to equality and inclusivity, Jane Mpholo is a true luminary in the world of arts and culture.
Jane Mpholo Pty Ltd
About The Company
The company is co-founded by Jane Mpholo-Mehlape (CEO) and her partner, Phillimon Mehlape (Managing Director).
Phillimon is a lift technician by profession and has been working with Jane since 2014. He is an advisor, production manager, set builder, and heads the transportation department.
The company was officially registered in 2021.
There are three main art forms provided by Jane Mpholo pty ltd. Theatre, film, and site-specific performance art. The main objective is to use performance arts as a tool to educate, bring about awareness and entertainment, with the core themes being Gender-Based Violence, HIV, Religion and Rape.
Services
Acting
-With over 10 years of experience as a performer, Jane Mpholo is a force to be reckoned with. Her skills go beyond gender as proven on her Kyknet Fiesta nominated performance of The Island, where she portrayed a male character.
Mentorship
-We offer advice and guidance to those who need it. This industry can be unkind and unpredictable. It is always wise to have someone who holds your hand.
Producing
-Although the primary focus is on Jane Mpholo productions, the company is open to producing for freelancers. Producing can be stressful and that is why we are here to focus on the logistics, while you create. If you are looking for collaboration, feel free to reach out.
Dramaturgy
Whether you are in the first stages of writing, in rehearsal or close to performance…Jane Mpholo is here to ensure that your vision is met.
Script Writing
-If you have a concept and no idea where to begin with your writing journey, look no further. Our scriptwriting services cater for researched, fictional and non-fictional narratives.
Adjudication
-adjudication of funding proposals, festival productions and art competitions.
Capacity Building/Skills Trading
-This service caters for aspiring actors, directors, stage managers, writers and producers.
Audience Development
-Collaboration on strategies to ensure that your production reaches the right markets, and to open access to markets that are not familiar with theatre.
Drama Coaching
-For ease of preparation whether you view performance arts as a hobby or if you are in need of guidance while you prepare for your audition/performance.
Fundraising
-We help you draft proposals and send them out to potential stakeholders and funders.
Reviews
-We provide reviews for both the theatre and film productions. This ranges from 200 words to 500 words depending on the package chosen. The reviews will then be posted on our social media handles for your reference.
Why We Do What We Do
Performance arts is a crucial way to mirror the society and create safe spaces where no topic is taboo. Having been the victim of rape and GBV, losing her sister to a femicide incident, and losing both parents to HIV…Jane has taken it upon herself to use theatre as a therapeutic tool.
Though the characters are fictional, our productions are inspired by facts and real life stories. We give voices to the voiceless and create safe spaces to provoke discussions and encourage change.
Jane’s signature is ritualistic theatre where she ensures that the stories are poetic and mostly makes use of the four elements as metaphors. Some narratives dive deeper and explore the physical, dream and spiritual realms’ portals.