MZANSI MAGIC REVEALED ON TV

M-Net announces new local content channel for DStv subscribers.

South Africa’s local production industry received a boost recently, with M-Net’s announcement of a new local content channel, Mzansi Magic, which will showcase on screens on July 12. The channel will be available to MultiChoice subscribers on DStv Select, DStv Compact and DStv Premium.

“The channel is set to showcase locally-produced content with a strong entertainment focus. This channel has been shaped through dialogue with some of the our most successful actors, musicians, comedians and it is a privilege to be involved with an initiative that will promote local content both in South Africa and globally,” explains Yolisa Phahle, Channel Director for Mzansi Magic.

The channel will offer a diverse content mix, including local and international feature films, music specials, documentaries and soapies. Programme Manager, Lebone Maema says, “Subscribers will be treated to a host of new local programmes which will premiere on Mzansi Magic. These include interactive talk shows hosted by new and established television and radio personalities”.

The channel will also introduce to television the uniquely South African low budget film genre nicknamed “bubblegum cinema”. It will broadcast comedy hits such as Moruti wa Tsotsi and Madhluphuthu, which have only been available on DVD to limited audiences.

The channel’s diverse content procurement strategy will provide a solid basis for existing and emerging South African producers and filmmakers to engage M-Net in the licensing and production of local content.

M-Net aims to play its part in stimulating the growth and development of the industry in a sustainable way. “With this channel we want to engage producers and explore possibilities beyond traditional commissioning models. In partnership with South African filmmakers, we will seek to empower emerging talent to produce compelling content with local and universal appeal, but also to ensure that key skills are transferred to the industry,” explains Phahle.

The channel presents an exciting new platform for the South African creative industry, and a new destination for viewers who are interested in proudly South African entertainment.