Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Certification
Awards
Affiliations
Software
Interests
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Matthew Alexander Zweig (Xander)

Film & Theatre Writer, Director & Performer | Production Specialist | Educator | Voice Over Artist
Cape Town
Matthew Alexander Zweig (Xander)

Summary

Dynamic and creative leader with over 15 years of expertise in production, writing, and performance arts. Skilled at transforming complex narratives into compelling content across various media platforms, consistently achieving exceptional results in fast-paced environments. Recognized for building high-performing teams and implementing innovative approaches that drive engagement and excellence. Multilingual professional with a unique global perspective on creative projects, maintaining meticulous attention to quality and brand consistency. Passionate about mentoring emerging talent and fostering collaborative spaces where creativity thrives. An extensive list of film, TV, and theatre productions is available upon request.

Overview

22
years of professional experience
8
years of post-secondary education
5
Certifications
3
Languages

Work History

AFDA

Freelance Creative Writing Lecturer
02.2025 - Current

Job overview

  • As a Creative Writing Tutor at AFDA, I mentor and guide third-year BA Creative Writing students in the craft of playwriting, helping them develop compelling stage narratives that balance structure, character depth, and thematic resonance
  • Curriculum Delivery: Teaching key principles of playwriting, including dramatic structure, dialogue, subtext, and staging considerations
  • Workshopping & Feedback: Facilitating script development through rigorous workshops, constructive critique, and individual consultations
  • Theatrical Interpretation: Encouraging students to think beyond the page by considering directorial vision, performance, and audience engagement
  • Script Assessment: Evaluating student work for narrative coherence, originality, and execution of dramatic techniques
  • Industry Insight: Providing professional guidance on playwriting as a career path, script submission processes, and opportunities in theatre and beyond

The Masque Theatre

Theatre Masterclasses
11.2024 - Current

Job overview

  • Developed and led advanced theatre training programs at The Masque Theatre, designing and facilitating specialized 2-month Masterclass Workshop series in Stage Acting, Theatrical Direction, Playwriting, and Voice Techniques
  • Created a sustainable revenue stream through workshop fees while elevating the theatre's brand presence
  • Successfully balanced accessibility with professional development, enabling both emerging and established theatre practitioners to advance their craft in an immersive learning environment
  • Each intensive program combines hands-on instruction with performance opportunities, fostering artistic growth and technical mastery

TFG (The Foschini Group)

Production Assistant - Campaign Shoot for @Home Lifestyle Stores
02.2024 - Current

Job overview

  • Setting up props, furniture, and styling elements to match the brand's aesthetic
  • Make quick adjustments to props, wardrobe, or lighting as needed
  • Keep track of shot consistency, ensuring branding guidelines are met
  • Run errands for the production team, such as fetching supplies or handling last-minute requests
  • Ensure all props, wardrobe, and equipment are accounted for and packed correctly
  • Assist in organizing images, receipts, and other documents related to the shoot

China English Daily News

Voice Over News Anchor
11.2020 - Current

Job overview

  • Daily news voiceovers for a China English News Daily app

Various Freelance

Freelance Content Writer
01.2018 - Current

Job overview

  • Content Strategy & SEO Writing Professional with published work across international digital and print platforms
  • Crafted engaging content for KIDS Magazine (Beijing), delivering educational and family-focused articles for the expatriate community
  • Contributed mindfulness and personal development articles to Tiny Buddha (tinybuddha.com), reaching a global audience of millions
  • Contributed to TEFL LEMON, creating accessible and practical teaching materials and guidance, which reached thousands of expat teachers in Asia
  • Researching and writing content for skin care industry using product range for Hong Kong based skin care company Edelora
  • Founding member and contributing writer for Paranormality Magazine, an online magazine focused on paranormal and metaphysical content
  • Developed in-app content for Thrive Mindfulness, creating accessible meditation and wellness guidance
  • Produced daily news content for China English News Daily app, translating complex topics for English-speaking audiences
  • Authored motivational content for Motivate app, focusing on user engagement and behavioural change
  • Specializing in cross-cultural communication, wellness content, and digital optimization across multiple platforms and formats

Freelance

Voice Artist
01.2007 - Current

Job overview

  • I have worked as a freelance voiceover artist for over 20 years
  • I have a broad range of experience in doing character voices, podcasts, audio books, audio dramas, news broadcasting, commercial voiceovers and more!

Cape Town Productions

Art Department Production Assistant for George At Home Campaign Shoot
01.2025 - 01.2025

Job overview

  • Help source, organize, and transport props and wardrobe items
  • Help with setting up props, furniture, and styling elements to match the brand's aesthetic
  • Make quick adjustments to props, wardrobe, or lighting as needed
  • Run errands for the production team, such as fetching supplies or handling last-minute requests
  • Maintain a clean and functional workspace to prevent disruptions
  • Ensure all props, wardrobe, and equipment are accounted for and packed correctly

A Non Films

Script Supervisor
10.2024 - 01.2025

Job overview

  • I ensure narrative consistency and technical precision on film/television productions by meticulously tracking all elements across scenes and shots
  • Working closely with directors, cinematographers, and editors, I maintain the creative vision while addressing practical production considerations
  • Maintained detailed continuity notes for wardrobe, props, set dressing, action, and dialogue
  • Created comprehensive scene breakdowns for production planning
  • Tracked screen direction, eyelines, and actor movement for seamless editing
  • Documented camera setups, lens choices, and shot specifications
  • Measured and recorded precise timing for each take and overall production schedule
  • Collaborated with directors to ensure narrative cohesion across non-sequential shooting schedules
  • Consulted with departments (wardrobe, makeup, props) to maintain consistency
  • Flagged potential continuity issues before they occur, saving valuable production time and resources
  • Prepared detailed editor's notes to streamline post-production workflows

Dissonance Media

Voice Actor - After the Gloaming & Nights End Audio Dramas
01.2022 - 01.2025

Job overview

  • Ongoing audio drama produced by Dissonance Media
  • I play the lead role and narrator, Henry Blackwood

Freelance

Production Assistant for The Madison Collection campaign shoot
11.2024 - 11.2024

Job overview

  • Production Assistant for campaign shoot working with stylist Tara Sloggett

The Masque Theatre

Front of House Manager - The Masque Theatre
12.2023 - 04.2024

Job overview

  • Managing all aspects of Front of House for the Masque Theatre

Zhejiang Tourism and Culture Board

Voice Over Artist
01.2023 - 12.2023

Job overview

  • Voice over artist for provincial tourism board advertisements and marketing campaigns

Motivate - Adrian Cahill

Voice Over Artist
01.2023 - 12.2023

Job overview

  • Created marketing ads, video campaigns and provided professional voice over services

ESL Suite Consulting Co., Ltd

Senior Recruitment Consultant
06.2018 - 08.2023

Job overview

  • Oversaw five-member team of conducting all activities within HR function
  • Served as primary liaison between employer and candidates throughout hiring operations
  • Directed all elements of recruitment process, inclusive of client relationship management, funnel, as well as sourcing and closing
  • Onboarded new personnel and facilitated training on best practices, as well as standard operating procedures
  • Coordinated annual performance review sessions
  • Maintained databases comprising employee records
  • Devised and implemented strategic HR policies
  • Ensured regulatory compliance throughout duty execution
  • Obtained recognition for highest number of sales in 2019, contributing approximately ¥2.7M
  • Devised dynamic, cost-effective recruitment strategies to attract top-tier candidates and clients
  • Achieved total of 123 successful placements during 2019 at 21% conversion rate

Hangzhou Tourism Commission

Voiceover Artist
01.2022 - 12.2022

Job overview

  • English dubbing/voiceover for Hangzhou TV Series 'History Of Hangzhou'

XS Podcast

Podcaster
11.2021 - 12.2022

Job overview

  • I hosted and produced the XS Podcast (Xander and Stone), where we explored the fascinating intersection of science and the supernatural
  • Through engaging conversations with experts, skeptics, and believers alike, we examined unexplained phenomena through both scientific and paranormal lenses
  • Key Responsibilities: Co-create and develop original podcast content exploring scientific explanations for supernatural phenomena
  • Research complex scientific concepts and paranormal theories to create balanced, informative episodes
  • Conduct in-depth interviews with scientists, paranormal investigators, and eyewitnesses
  • Direct and manage production workflow from concept development through final publishing
  • Edit audio content to maintain high production quality and engaging narrative flow
  • Write compelling episode descriptions and promotional copy for digital platforms
  • Manage social media presence and community engagement across multiple platforms
  • Analyze listener metrics to refine content strategy and grow audience reach
  • Coordinate with sponsors and manage partnership opportunities
  • Impact: Built a dedicated listener base of 3400 monthly downloads
  • Expanded reach across 72 countries with listeners in the US, UK, Europe, Africa and Australia to name a few
  • Developed a thriving online community with hundreds of active members
  • Featured as guests on 6 other podcasts
  • Ranked in the top 100 in the Science/Supernatural category on major podcast platforms

Etonkids Educational Group

Regional Academic Supervisor
06.2016 - 07.2018

Job overview

  • Possessed oversight for maintenance of academic standards across entire Northern Region
  • Identified development needs to formulate and facilitate nation-wide training workshops
  • Leveraged creative approach to professional development by engaging employees in positive, energised manner
  • Devised and implemented new curricula, as well as education initiatives
  • Conducted thorough audits of academic quality within classrooms and on campuses in region
  • Determined shortcomings and delivered innovative solutions oriented towards improvement
  • Partnered with human resource department to coordinate sourcing, interviewing, hiring, as well as visa acquisition for new foreign personnel
  • Established strong, fully qualified academic workforce across Northern Region through facilitation of comprehensive training programmes
  • Significantly improved staff satisfaction across campuses by implementing innovative engagement initiatives
  • Experienced notable increase in satisfaction among students and parents

EF English First

Teacher promoted to Senior Teacher promoted to Director Of Studies
01.2010 - 12.2015

Job overview

  • Directed daily management of centre operations, as well as implementation and maintenance of standard operating procedures
  • Ensured consistent maintenance of exceptional academic standards
  • Oversaw execution of weekly and monthly reporting delineating centre status updates
  • Drove recruitment, interviewing, selection, hiring, and onboarding of new personnel
  • Conducted planning in support of professional development programme and facilitated appropriate training to approximately 200 staff members
  • Obtained Academic Management Reward in 2012, Career Development Award in 2013, as well as SINA Ministry of Education Award and Exceptional Contribution Award in 2014
  • Supervised operations conducted within centre by approximately 54 staff, catering towards 400 students

JoJo English

Voiceover Artist
01.2014 - 12.2014

Job overview

  • Recorded voiceovers for Young Learner English Second Language Learning materials, content and curriculum
  • I voiced various characters (animated) aimed at learners aged 3-10 years old, including singing, read-along, character dialogues, and instructional videos for language learning
  • Content was produced both in video and audio formats

Tianjin Life Radio 91.1 FM

Radio Talkshow Host
01.2013 - 12.2014

Job overview

  • I co-hosted the popular bilingual show 'East/West' on Tianjin Life Radio 91.1FM, serving as the English-language presenter for a diverse international audience
  • Key Responsibilities: Co-developed and presented engaging bilingual content for the 'East/West' program, bridging Eastern and Western perspectives
  • Conducted live interviews with international guests, local personalities, and subject matter experts
  • Created and delivered compelling segments on culture, current events, and lifestyle topics
  • Managed time-sensitive broadcast schedules and coordinated with production team
  • Improvised solutions during live broadcasts, maintaining professional delivery
  • Developed strong rapport with listeners through interactive segments and community engagement
  • Collaborated with Chinese co-hosts to ensure seamless transitions between languages
  • Represented the station at community events and promotional activities
  • Impact: Expanded listenership by [specific percentage] through engaging content and dynamic presentation
  • Contributed to the program's recognition as [any awards or achievements]
  • Fostered cross-cultural understanding through balanced perspectives on local and international topics
  • Built a loyal following among both expatriate and local Chinese listeners
  • Developed transferable skills in storytelling, timing, and live performance that continue to enhance my creative work
  • This experience strengthened my abilities in spontaneous communication, cultural adaptability, and audience engagement - skills that have proven invaluable throughout my career in creative direction and production

Sitong Music Bar

Live performer, MC, Singer
01.2012 - 12.2014

Job overview

  • Performing nightly live music shows for live audiences and patrons

City Varsity

Drama Dept Lecturer - Acting for Camera, Live Performance, Voice
01.2008 - 01.2010

Job overview

  • Teaching first, second and third year drama students in Live performance, acting for camera, voice technique, physical theatre

Short film

Professional Actor 'Considerately Killing Me'
01.2009 - 12.2009

Job overview

  • Lead role in short film directed by Willem Grobbler
  • Won best actor in short film at 2009 Apollo Film Festival

The Baxter Theatre

Professional Actor - Paper Moon
01.2009 - 12.2009

Job overview

  • Performed in a two man show for the African Writers Festival

Limoncello Ristorante

Front Of House Manager
01.2003 - 12.2009

Job overview

  • Oversaw all front-of-house operations of 80-seater Italian restaurant
  • Ensure continual compliance with safety and sanitation regulations
  • Facilitated training to personnel to ensure comprehensive understanding of standard operating procedures, menu contents, and service delivery standards
  • Liaised with back-of-house personnel to guarantee seamless operations and highly efficient service
  • Performed inventory control by monitoring stock levels, ordering new supplies as required, as well as verifying receipt of items
  • Leveraged creative qualities to offer assistance with recipe development, ingredient selection, menu design, as well as plating
  • Exceeded typical job duties by stepping in as relief cook when required
  • Significantly enhanced brand awareness by formulating and executing strategic marketing initiatives, as well as inviting high-profile guests
  • Drove profits through optimal satisfaction and retention of clientele

Education

AFDA

BA Honours from Motion Picture Screenwriting
01.2024 - 12.2024

University Overview

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Diploma from Culinary Arts/Chef Training
01.2021 - 12.2022

University Overview

Cape Town City Varisty School of Film & Media

NQF 7 BA Equivalent from Directing and Production for Film & Television
01.2008 - 12.2008

University Overview

Cape Town City Varsity School of Film & Media

NQF 7 BA Equivalent Advanced Diploma from Performing Arts
01.2004 - 12.2007

University Overview

Skills

Drama Arts Engagement (Stage & Screen)

References

References

Riaz Solker (Film Writer, Director/Producer)

riazsolker@yahoo.co.uk


Christine Kaye (Masque Theatre Vice Chairperson)

operations@themasque.co.za


Robyn Aronstam (AFDA,Cape Town)

RobynA@afda.co.za



Certification

Stories Through Sound - UC Berkeley School of Advanced Media

Awards

Awards
  • Presidents Honor List, Auguste Escoffier School Of Culinary Arts, 08/01/23
  • Escoffier Legion Of Honor
  • Gold Screenwriting Award
  • Golden Teacher of the Year, 2014

Affiliations

Affiliations

Active Board Member of Masque Theatre (Feb 2024-present)

Writers Guild of South Africa - Member since 2023

Software

Final Draft

MS Office Suites

Google Suites

Interests

Gardening

Sustainable Living

Performing Arts

Visual Arts

Podcasting

Timeline

Freelance Creative Writing Lecturer
AFDA
02.2025 - Current
Art Department Production Assistant for George At Home Campaign Shoot
Cape Town Productions
01.2025 - 01.2025
Theatre Masterclasses
The Masque Theatre
11.2024 - Current
Production Assistant for The Madison Collection campaign shoot
Freelance
11.2024 - 11.2024
Script Supervisor
A Non Films
10.2024 - 01.2025
Production Assistant - Campaign Shoot for @Home Lifestyle Stores
TFG (The Foschini Group)
02.2024 - Current
AFDA
BA Honours from Motion Picture Screenwriting
01.2024 - 12.2024
Front of House Manager - The Masque Theatre
The Masque Theatre
12.2023 - 04.2024
Voice Over Artist
Zhejiang Tourism and Culture Board
01.2023 - 12.2023
Voice Over Artist
Motivate - Adrian Cahill
01.2023 - 12.2023
Voice Actor - After the Gloaming & Nights End Audio Dramas
Dissonance Media
01.2022 - 01.2025
Voiceover Artist
Hangzhou Tourism Commission
01.2022 - 12.2022
Podcaster
XS Podcast
11.2021 - 12.2022
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Diploma from Culinary Arts/Chef Training
01.2021 - 12.2022
Voice Over News Anchor
China English Daily News
11.2020 - Current
Senior Recruitment Consultant
ESL Suite Consulting Co., Ltd
06.2018 - 08.2023
Freelance Content Writer
Various Freelance
01.2018 - Current
Regional Academic Supervisor
Etonkids Educational Group
06.2016 - 07.2018
Voiceover Artist
JoJo English
01.2014 - 12.2014
Radio Talkshow Host
Tianjin Life Radio 91.1 FM
01.2013 - 12.2014
Live performer, MC, Singer
Sitong Music Bar
01.2012 - 12.2014
Teacher promoted to Senior Teacher promoted to Director Of Studies
EF English First
01.2010 - 12.2015
Professional Actor 'Considerately Killing Me'
Short film
01.2009 - 12.2009
Professional Actor - Paper Moon
The Baxter Theatre
01.2009 - 12.2009
Drama Dept Lecturer - Acting for Camera, Live Performance, Voice
City Varsity
01.2008 - 01.2010
Cape Town City Varisty School of Film & Media
NQF 7 BA Equivalent from Directing and Production for Film & Television
01.2008 - 12.2008
Voice Artist
Freelance
01.2007 - Current
Cape Town City Varsity School of Film & Media
NQF 7 BA Equivalent Advanced Diploma from Performing Arts
01.2004 - 12.2007
Front Of House Manager
Limoncello Ristorante
01.2003 - 12.2009
Matthew Alexander Zweig (Xander)Film & Theatre Writer, Director & Performer | Production Specialist | Educator | Voice Over Artist