In the hit series ‘Youngins’, rising star Tshepo Matlala brings the character of Tshepo Masemola, the class clown, to life with his passion for physical theatre and miming.
Whether he’s cracking a smile, bursting into laughter, or making you cringe, Tshepo’s portrayal of Tshepo Masemola is larger than life.
When asked about how he approaches his role, Matlala explains that his background in physical theatre and clowning has made it easy for him to embody the exaggerated nature of his character.
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With each script, he sees the moments where Tshepo Masemola goes over the top and brings them to life on screen.
Matlala credits the assistant director and director for guiding him on how each scene should play out, but it’s his own performer instincts that truly support Tshepo Masemola’s antics.
Drawing from his love for physical theatre, clowning, miming, and slapstick, Matlala injects all of these elements into his performance, making Tshepo’s character truly unforgettable.
One of Matlala’s strengths is his ability to engage in planned improvisation within the script. He takes it upon himself to direct the narrative of each scene, always thinking about how it will play out and adding his flair to the performance.
Matlala reveals that when he’s still wearing his clothes, he doesn’t feel the same connection to the character.
But the moment he puts on that school uniform and steps into the environment with his fellow cast members, something shifts. He becomes Tshepo Masemola, fully embracing the quirks and mannerisms of the character.
Interestingly, Matlala also shares some similarities with Tshepo Masemola. He recalls a time in school when they had a feeding scheme, and their arts and culture teacher was teaching a lesson that was running into their lunchtime.
Feeling hungry and frustrated, Matlala took out an empty plate from his bag and tucked it under his jersey, expressing his annoyance at the situation.
The popular teen drama series, ‘Youngins’, starring Tshepo Matlala and Thabiso Ramotshela, has been renewed for a second season. The show also features Kealeboga Masango from ‘Rhythm City’ as the “it” girl Buhle, Lebohang Lephatsoana as Tumelo, and Toka Mtabane as Khaya.
The cast also includes Thabile Tau as Sefako, Amo Telekelo as Palesa, Lihle Ngubo as Zinhle, and Katlego Moloke as Alex. Set at the fictional boarding school named Olifantsfontein High, the drama series is a Tshedza Pictures production.
‘Youngins’ director Themba Mfebe describes the show as an unvarnished view of a generation that is defining itself right before our eyes. With young writers who live the true authentic lives of the viewers, the series offers a genuine portrayal of the experiences and challenges faced by today’s youth.
The first season of ‘Youngins’ premiered on Showmax on February 12th, with three new episodes streaming every Thursday. Audiences can look forward to more laughter, drama, and unforgettable moments as Tshepo Matlala continues to shine as the class clown extraordinaire, Tshepo Masemola.
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