The Market Theatre Foundation (MTF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rethabile Molatela Mothobi as The Market Theatre’s new Producer to Support The Market Theatre’s Artistic Vision effective from 26 January 2026.

Rethabile holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dramatic Arts from Wits University, majoring in Performance, Directing and Performance Arts Management. Prior to joining MTF, she worked with various likeminded organisations, responsible for key functions as creative producer, artistic director and project lead.

A high-performance producer and accomplished storyteller, she brings a distinguished track record in film and television, with credits that include ‘The Estate’, ‘Black Is King’, ‘Vaya’ and ‘Courting Anathi’, among others.

Making a bold move back to live theatre, Rethabile joins South Africa’s leading cultural institution in a crucial milestone year as The Market Theatre celebrates 50 years of fearless storytelling.

She further steps into her new role after the institution and its stakeholders dealt with the unexpected passing of its former producer, Zodwa Shongwe.

Rethabile’s excellent record in managing cutting-edge projects, budgeting, administration, reporting and compliance will strengthen the institution’s operations, ensuring that it realises its ambitious artistic vision.

Furthermore, her work as a drama facilitator in high schools and at community level fits well into MTF’s mission to create, expose and promote an arts‑conscious society, while nurturing the next generation of performing artists from cradle to great.

Rethabile comments, “I’m overjoyed to have joined The Market Theatre Foundation. My personal motto is ‘knowledge in the service of Africa’. To be part of this esteemed organisation that constantly adds to the discourse about our country and the continent at large is a privilege and a pleasure,”

“This role,” she continues, “presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth. If I were to sum up this season, I’d say it’s about creating more stories, deepening cultural representation and forming meaningful partnerships.”

Greg Homann, Artistic Director at The Market Theatre Foundation, describes Rethabile’s appointment as a significant boost to the artistic department, noting that her expertise arrives just in time as The Market Theatre is about to launch its vibrant, inclusive year‑long 50th anniversary programming.

“Our programming for the year is both a reflection on the past that turned our theatre into a landmark of resistance, and a creative direction of its future. At the heart of it all is the principle of shared ownership and belonging, programming for the demographics of our nation, creating meaningful opportunities for creatives and developing fresh writing voices. This is an exciting period to be welcoming Rethabile to The Market Theatre Foundation,” states Homann.

The Market Theatre is a Division of The Market Theatre Foundation, an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

For media enquiries, please contact Bongiwe Potelwa (Publicist at The Market Theatre Foundation) at bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za or 011 832 1641.

Bongi Potelwa
bongiwep@markettheatre.co.za
079 967 3441
The Market Theatre Foundation
http://www.markettheatre.co.za