ACTivate 2026 - Film & Theater Conference

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Film & Theater Conference

Join filmmakers, theater artists, and creative storytellers for two days of inspiring discussions, masterclasses, and cultural celebration in the heart of South Africa.

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September 24-25, 2026

Conference Dates

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Johannes Stegmann Theatre

1 Louwrens Muller St, Secunda, 2302

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Free Event

Registration

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About ACTivate 2026

ACTivate Film and Theatre Conference is a national platform dedicated to reawakening the spirit of storytelling and cultural expression in Mpumalanga through the powerful mediums of film and theatre.

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Innovation Focus

Reimagining storytelling through technology, inclusivity, and sustainability to build future-ready creative industries.

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Networking

Networking at ACTivate connects dreamers, creators, and leaders to spark collaborations that transform storytelling futures.

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Hands-on Learning

Workshops at ACTivate provide hands-on learning, empowering participants with practical skills for creative industries.

Previous Events Gallery

Moments from our past conferences and celebrations

Panel Discussions

Industry experts sharing insights on storytelling and film production

Hands-on Workshops

Participants learning practical skills in directing, acting, and production

Job Creation

Creating sustainable employment opportunities in film and theater industries

Community Networking

Creative professionals connecting and building lasting partnerships

Cultural Celebrations

Live music and performances celebrating local talent and creativity

Dry Casting

Learn from industry pioneers and thought leaders

Dr. Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha

Acclaimed Actor & Storyteller

South African stage and screen actor who has appeared in critically acclaimed films including Cry The Beloved Country, Lord of War, and the Academy Award-winning film Tsotsi.

Jack Devnarain

Television & Film Actor

South African actor best known for his roles in television serials The Ghost and the Darkness, Isidingo, and Mayfair.

Mmabatho Montsho

Multi-disciplinary Artist & Director

South African fine artist, writer, actress, and film director known for her versatile creative expression across multiple mediums.

Nolo Phiri

Actress, Producer & Director

South African actress, television producer, businesswoman and director, best known for her role as Niki in the South African soap opera Rhythm City and Losing Lerato.

Event Schedule

Two days packed with insights and workshops

Day 1 - September 24, 2026

8:00 AM - 8:55 AM

Registration & Welcome

Network with fellow creatives

9:00 AM - 10:25 AM

Breaking Down the Script: From Idea to Screen & Stage

Panel Discussion - Main Hall

10:30 AM - 11:55 AM

The Visual Language of Storytelling

Panel Discussion

12:00 PM - 1:25 PM

Behind the Curtains: Production Management

Panel Discussion

1:30 PM - 2:55 PM

Lunch Break

Networking & refreshments

3:00 PM - 4:25 PM

The Business of Film & Theatre

Panel Discussion

4:30 PM - 5:00 PM

Closing Session

Main Hall

Day 2 - September 25, 2026

9:00 AM - 10:25 AM

Directing for Stage vs. Screen

Masterclass - Workshop Room A

10:30 AM - 11:55 AM

Set and Lighting Design

Workshop - Technical Hall

12:00 PM - 1:25 PM

Acting Techniques Across Mediums

Masterclass - Performance Studio

1:30 PM - 2:25 PM

Lunch Break

Networking & refreshments

2:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Closing Celebration

Networking and Live music

Our Partners

Supporting the future of film and theater

Department of Culture, Sport & Recreation

Proud partner of ACTivate 2026

Municipality

Proud partner of ACTivate 2026

Mpumalanga Tourism & Parks Agency

Proud partner of ACTivate 2026

Become a Sponsor

Join us in supporting the next generation of South African storytellers and creative professionals.

RSVP for ACTivate 2026

Secure your spot at the most anticipated film conference of the year

Free Event

Day 1 Registration

September 24, 2026

FREE

Panel Discussions & Networking

✓ Script Development Panel
✓ Visual Storytelling Discussion
✓ Production Management Panel
✓ Entertainment Business Panel
✓ Networking opportunities
✓ Conference materials
✓ Refreshments included

Free Event

Day 2 Registration

September 25, 2026

FREE

Workshops & Live Performance

✓ Directing Masterclass
✓ Set & Lighting Workshop
✓ Acting Techniques Workshop
✓ Live Music
✓ Networking
✓ Refreshments included
✓ Closing Celebration