Landing a role on Mzansi Magic’s new drama series Kokota Piano has been the biggest highlight for Thato Dithebe.
Speaking to Sunday World this week, Dithebe, who is an actor, presenter and dancer, said he started in the entertainment industry when he was eight years old.
“I got into the entertainment space after winning the Yo-TV Maggi 2 Minutes Noodles Presenter Search,” he said.
“That same year, I tried for my primary school talent show, performing a dance routine that was prepared by my sister. Haven’t stopped ever since.”
Dithebe plays the role of Tshepang, a 19-year-old boy from Mamelodi who grew up in his father’s church.
He has a deep love for music, but an even deeper love for his family and tight crew of friends.
“He is just another kid with a big dream, who genuinely does everything out of love but whose actions are always misunderstood until the end,” he said.
“What you can expect from him is some of the best music SA TV has ever heard, big credit to JR, and a feel-good story about a young man balancing life, family, and the many challenges.”
He said playing the role of a preacher’s son was quite interesting experiencing what it would feel like to live under the thumb of a super strict parent who justifies his unfair actions using the good book.
“It was also fun to portray the naïveté of a boy who grew up in the township, but is far from street smart.”
Dithebe, who also plays Neo on House of Zwide, said Tshepang and Neo are worlds apart.
“Tshepang is very energetic and active, unlike Neo who’s very laid back and cool. One thing I would say they definitely have in common is their charm.”
He added that going forward, he hopes to get a lot more screen time and also do some presenting this year.
The cast of Kokota also includes Obakeng Kgwedi (Gomora), Koketso Motaung (The River), Leera Mthethwa (Gomora), Molefi Monaisa (Dora’s Peace), Bathabile Mashigo (The Queen) and actor Noel Baloyi.
This is the story of South African youths – those who dare to dream beyond their circumstances and have the bravery to pursue those dreams no matter the challenges in their way.
In Kokota, it’s piano over everything.
Kokota season 1 will premiere on Mzansi Magic on September 10 at 8pm.
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