Mthandazo Mofokeng
Stilfontein
Summary
Technical supervisor and lighting specialist with a background in live events, theatre, and venue operations. Delivers technical troubleshooting, proactive equipment maintenance, budget oversight, safety compliance, and staff mentoring while supporting project planning, client communication, and reliable show execution.
Overview
2
2
Languages
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Technical Supervisor
Norwegian Cruise Lines
06.2025 - Current
- Introduced innovative solutions to technical problems, significantly reducing recurring issues.
- Consulted with clients to ascertain project requirements and communicated with internal staff to handle project planning and scheduling.
- Liaised with external contractors and service providers, overseeing outsourced work to maintain quality control.
- Monitored staff performance and developed improvement plans.
- Communicated effectively with all key stakeholders, including project teams, internal clients and external parties.
- Mentored junior staff, providing guidance on best practices and encouraging professional development within the technical team.
- Developed and managed proactive maintenance schedule for technical equipment to minimise breakdowns.
- Delivered exemplary training and mentoring to employees, boosting productivity.
- Analysed project requirements, formulated technical specifications, and provided detailed guidance to development teams.
- Supported employee morale and well-being by developing positive practices centred on career development and individual job satisfaction.
- Advised senior management on facilities needs and delivered ongoing operational support.
- Conducted technology audits to identify areas for improvement, leading initiatives to upgrade systems and processes.
Freelance Lighting Technician
The Market Theatre
01.2016 - Current
- Developed custom lighting cues based on directors' visions, creating memorable visual experiences for audiences.
- Executed rigging based on lighting plan, programmed cues on GrandMA2 console to enhance visual effects.
- Managed inventory of lighting equipment, including LED fixtures and moving lights, ensuring optimal functionality.
- Assisted with generation of contract documentation, drawings and technical reports for lighting installations.
Freelance Lighting Technician
The Soweto Theatre
01.2016 - Current
- Executed rigging based on lighting plan, focused and programmed cues on GrandMA2 console to enhance performance and visual impact.
- Developed custom lighting cues based on directors' visions, creating memorable visual experiences for audiences.
- Managed inventory of lighting equipment, including LED fixtures and moving lights, ensuring optimal functionality.
- Assisted with generation of contract documentation, drawings and technical reports for lighting installations.
Freelance Lighting Technician
Sibikwa Arts Centre
01.2016 - Current
- Duties: Designed and rigged lighting setups, focused and programmed cues on Strand 200 Lighting console to enhance event atmosphere
- Developed custom lighting cues based on directors' visions, creating memorable visual experiences for audiences.
- Managed inventory of lighting equipment, including LED fixtures and moving lights, ensuring optimal functionality.
- Assisted with generation of contract documentation, drawings and technical reports for lighting installations.
Technical Production Manager
Norwegian Cruise Lines
04.2025 - 06.2025
- Managed daily operations in production facility, optimising workflow and enhancing efficiency.
- Coordinated with multiple departments to streamline production processes, reducing downtime and costs.
- Resolved production issues swiftly, minimising impact on delivery timelines and customer satisfaction.
- Reduced workplace incidents by implementing occupational health and safety requirements.
- Enforced standards of work and reporting deadlines.
- Facilitated communication between upper management and production floor, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
- Oversaw inventory management, implementing systems to minimise stock levels whilst meeting production needs.
- Conducted performance evaluations, identifying areas for improvement and rewarding high achievers.
- Organised training sessions on new technology adoption, keeping the team updated and enhancing productivity.
Lighting Technician
Norwegian Cruise Line
12.2019 - 04.2025
- Managed inventory of lighting equipment, including LED fixtures and moving lights, ensuring optimal functionality.
- Developed custom lighting cues based on directors' visions, creating memorable visual experiences for audiences.
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, enhancing performance aesthetics.
- Maintained lighting equipment, carefully scheduling inspections and maintenance to reduce interruptions.
- Collaborated with production teams to design innovative lighting schemes that complemented stage settings and themes.
Technical Production Manager
Norwegian Cruise Lines
09.2024 - 10.2024
- Managed daily operations in production facility, optimising workflow and enhancing efficiency.
- Developed and maintained production schedules, ensuring timely delivery of products to clients.
- Coordinated with multiple departments to streamline production processes, reducing downtime and costs.
- Resolved production issues swiftly, minimising impact on delivery timelines and customer satisfaction.
- Reduced workplace incidents by implementing occupational health and safety requirements.
- Enforced standards of work and reporting deadlines.
- Facilitated communication between upper management and production floor, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
- Led meetings and briefings to inform managers on production updates.
- Developed and implemented production strategies and closely monitored results.
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging feedback and innovative ideas from all staff levels.
- Oversaw inventory management, implementing systems to minimise stock levels whilst meeting production needs.
- Conducted performance evaluations, identifying areas for improvement and rewarding high achievers.
- Organised training sessions on new technology adoption, keeping the team updated and enhancing productivity.
- Facilitated cross-departmental communication to align production goals with company objectives.
Senior Lighting designer and programmer
The Rockwood Theatre
11.2017 - 10.2019
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, enhancing performance aesthetics.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment to enhance live performances and stage productions.
- Supervised lighting equipment setup and operation during rehearsals and planned run-throughs.
- Managed inventory of lighting equipment, including LED fixtures and moving lights, ensuring optimal functionality.
- Installed and maintained advanced lighting systems for various live events, delivering exceptional light quality.
- Worked safely at heights, utilising scaffolding and cranes to access theatre lighting and special installations.
- Provided technical support for lighting systems at corporate events, contributing to highly professional presentations.
- Coordinated with electricians to ensure safe installations of complex lighting rigs, adhering to industry safety standards.
- Worked alongside production manager to support all aspects of production for venue and events.
- Maintained lighting equipment, carefully scheduling inspections and maintenance to reduce interruptions.
- Adhered to strict production schedules, performing tasks at precise times.
- Implemented special effects with smoke, dry ice and pyrotechnics, delivering highly engaging light design experiences.
- Monitored changes in lighting technology trends, recommending upgrades to keep production capabilities cutting-edge.
- Assembled and dismantled stage sets based on current production needs.
Lighting designer
The South African State Theatre
07.2017 - 07.2017
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, enhancing performance aesthetics.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment to enhance live performances and stage productions.
- Supervised lighting equipment setup and operation during rehearsals and planned run-throughs.
- Led Kryptonite's 'Hip Hop is my...' initiative project, focusing on innovative lighting design to enhance audience engagement.
Lighting Technician/Venue Manager
National Arts Festival
Grahamstown
06.2017 - 07.2017
- Developed custom lighting cues based on directors' visions, creating memorable visual experiences for audiences.
- Executed rigging and programming of shows on ETC GIO Lighting console, enhancing visual impact and audience experience.
- Managed inventory of lighting equipment, including LED fixtures and moving lights, ensuring optimal functionality.
Venue Manager/Technician
Grahamstown National Arts Festival
06.2016 - 07.2016
- Recognised as Best Festival Technician for delivering exceptional technical support at events
- Rigged, focused and programmed shows on ETC Colour Source lighting console for seamless event execution
- Supervised the training and development of staff to ensure high levels of service quality and professionalism.
Lighting designer
Jo’burg Theatre Space.com
06.2016 - 06.2016
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, improving visual impact and overall audience experience.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment to elevate live performances and stage productions, contributing to audience engagement.
- Supervised lighting equipment setup and operation during rehearsals and run-throughs, ensuring optimal performance conditions.
- For “The Cleaners” by Sipho Zakwe
Lighting designer/Technician
Jo’burg Theatre Space.com
05.2016 - 04.2016
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, enhancing performance aesthetics.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment to enhance live performances and stage productions.
- Supervised lighting equipment setup and operation during rehearsals and planned run-throughs.
- Collaborated in creative process of 'Last Cow Standing' to enhance visual storytelling
- Assisted in planning and execution of Festival of Fame 2016 event to deliver engaging experiences
Lighting designer
Jo’burg Theatre Space.com
03.2016 - 04.2016
- Designed and implemented lighting concepts for 'Breath Taken', enhancing thematic elements and audience engagement.
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, enhancing performance aesthetics.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment to enhance live performances and stage productions.
- Supervised lighting equipment setup and operation during rehearsals and planned run-throughs.
Theatre Manager (Courtyard Theatre)
Durban University of Technology
11.2011 - 11.2015
- Manage Budgets (Operational and Student Levis)
- Coordinated departmental purchases to support operational needs.
- Drafted departmental year plans to align activities with strategic objectives.
- Administered asset verification process to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Health & Safety Representative
- Oversaw copyright processes for legal compliance and proper usage.
- Lighting Design, Rig, Focus and Programming on Maxyzz and M2PC lighting console
- Key Responsibilities:
- Reason for leaving: Resignation
Lighting Designer/Technician
Dance Nairobi Festival of Solos and Duets
10.2011 - 10.2011
- Supervised lighting equipment setup and operation during rehearsals and planned run-throughs.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment to enhance live performances and stage productions.
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, enhancing performance aesthetics.
- Conducted technical rehearsals to troubleshoot and adjust lighting equipment, guaranteeing flawless show execution.
- Worked safely at heights, utilising scaffolding and cranes to access theatre lighting and special installations.
- Developed custom lighting cues based on directors' visions, creating memorable visual experiences for audiences.
- Set up equipment to facilitate smooth, timely operations.
- Collaborated with production teams to design innovative lighting schemes that complemented stage settings and themes.
- Adhered to strict production schedules, performing tasks at precise times.
- Provided on-the-spot adjustments to lighting during live performances, responding quickly to unforeseen challenges.
Lighting designer/Technician
Mhayise Productions’ “Dayimane 2” at Dance Transmission Festival
10.2011 - 10.2011
- Supervised lighting equipment setup and operation during rehearsals and planned run-throughs.
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, enhancing performance aesthetics.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment to enhance live performances and stage productions.
- Conducted technical rehearsals to troubleshoot and adjust lighting equipment, guaranteeing flawless show execution.
- Worked safely at heights, utilising scaffolding and cranes to access theatre lighting and special installations.
- Worked alongside production manager to support all aspects of production for venue and events.
- Developed custom lighting cues based on directors' visions, creating memorable visual experiences for audiences.
- Adhered to strict production schedules, performing tasks at precise times.
- Implemented special effects with smoke, dry ice and pyrotechnics, delivering highly engaging light design experiences.
- Provided on-the-spot adjustments to lighting during live performances, responding quickly to unforeseen challenges.
Venue Manager/ Lighting Technician
Grahamstown National Arts Festival
06.2011 - 07.2011
- Managed all aspects of venue operations, including staffing, security, and maintenance for optimal performance.
- Executed rigging and programming for shows on JESTER ZERO 88 lighting console, ensuring precise focus and optimal visual impact.
- Supervised the training and development of staff to ensure high levels of service quality and professionalism.
Theatre Technician and venue Manager
Grahamstown National Arts Festival
06.2010 - 07.2010
- Gained recognition for outstanding technical skills, enhancing festival experiences
- Rigged, focused, and programmed shows on JESTER ZERO 88 lighting console to ensure seamless performances
- Adhered to strict production schedules, performing tasks at precise times.
- Set up equipment to facilitate smooth, timely operations.
- Produced high quality work by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
Stage Manager/Assistant Technician
Mhayise Production’s Dance piece “Moses” at FNB Dance Umbrella
Johannesburg
03.2010 - 06.2010
- Coordinated event logistics for National Arts Festival, enhancing overall attendee experience
- Managed production schedules, delivering daily and weekly schedules to crew and communicating schedule changes.
Theatre Technician
D.U.T Courtyard Theatre
Durban
05.2008 - 11.2009
- Rang, focused, and programmed lighting for shows using WholeHog2pc console to achieve desired visual effects
- Configured audio and visual equipment for events to facilitate smooth, timely operations.
- Adhered to strict production schedules, performing tasks at precise times.
- Produced high quality work by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
- Reason for leaving: Contract ended
Stage Manager/ Lighting Technician
D.U.T
02.2008 - 03.2008
- Coordinated stage management for a dance piece and facilitated the seamless execution of choreography by Mdu Mtshali.
Lighting designer and programmer
The Market Theatre
07.2017
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, elevating overall performance aesthetics and audience experience.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment to enhance live performances and stage productions.
- Supervised setup and operation of lighting equipment during rehearsals and run-throughs, contributing to successful execution of performances.
- Coordinated lighting design and logistics for Kelly Khumalo’s music video shoot for 'Themba', ensuring seamless integration of visual elements.
Lighting Designer
The Playhouse (Loft Theatre)
08.2014
- Designed lighting concept for ‘Secret Valley of Great Kings’, enhancing visual storytelling and audience engagement through strategic illumination choices.
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, enhancing performance aesthetics.
Lighting designer/Technician
The Playhouse (Drama Theatre)
08.2013
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, elevating overall performance quality.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment, optimising illumination for live performances and stage productions.
- Supervised setup and operation of lighting equipment during rehearsals and run-throughs, ensuring seamless production flow.
- For “Evita” directed by Debbie Lutge
Production Manager/ Lighting Designer and Technician
Mhayise Productions’ Multi Media Show “Ndlovukazi”
Durban
08.2010
- At Stable Theatre
- Managed daily operations in production facility, optimising workflow and enhancing efficiency.
- Resolved production issues swiftly, minimising impact on delivery timelines and customer satisfaction.
- Managed budget for production department, effectively controlling expenses to improve financial performance.
- Facilitated communication between upper management and production floor, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
- Minimised costs by adjusting processes, managing budgets and controlling expenses.
- Led meetings and briefings to inform managers on production updates.
- Developed and implemented production strategies and closely monitored results.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, establishing long-term partnerships and cost savings.
Lighting Technician and Stage Manager
Izulu Theatre
Sibaya
05.2009
- For a show called “Those Indian Guys”
- Developed custom lighting cues based on directors' visions, creating memorable visual experiences for audiences.
- Supervised lighting equipment setup and operation during rehearsals and planned run-throughs.
- Programmed and operated sophisticated lighting consoles during theatre productions, enhancing performance aesthetics.
- Programmed and operated venue lighting equipment to enhance live performances and stage productions.
- Conducted technical rehearsals to troubleshoot and adjust lighting equipment, guaranteeing flawless show execution.
- Worked safely at heights, utilising scaffolding and cranes to access theatre lighting and special installations.
- Worked alongside production manager to support all aspects of production for venue and events.
- Maintained lighting equipment, carefully scheduling inspections and maintenance to reduce interruptions.
- Set up equipment to facilitate smooth, timely operations.
- Adhered to strict production schedules, performing tasks at precise times.
Education
Diploma of Higher Education - TV/Drama and Production Studies
Durban University of Technology
Durban, KZN01-2009
Matriculation -
Thuto Thebe Secondary School
01-2005
Skills
- Lighting programming
- Console operation
- Cue programming
- Technical troubleshooting
- Equipment Maintenance
- Venue operations
- Production management
- Project management
- Budget control
- Scheduling
- Team coordination
- Crew supervision
- Technical liaison
- Safety compliance
- Crisis management
- Decision making
- Team leadership
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Technical communication
- Computer literacy
- Order processing
- Leadership skills
Languages
English
Proficient
C2
Afrikaans
Upper Intermediate
B2
Hobbies and interests
- Playing Pool/Snooker
REFERENCE:
- Nomvula, Molepo, NomvulaM@markerttheatre.co.za, +27 11 832 1641, +27 825495129, The Market Theatre
- Nicci, Sparlding, Technical Manager, +27 795354604, National Arts Festival
- Prof. Debbie, Lutge, +27 836032616, DUT Courtyard Theatre
- Lebugang, Mnisi, +27 11 930 7464, +27 823606373, Soweto Theatre
- Musa, Hlatshwayo, +27 837511146, Mhayise Productions
- Kody, Lupori, Technical Director, klupori@ncl.com, +1 7864939826, Norwegian Cruise Lines
- Erik, Torres, Technical Manager, Norwegian Cruise Lines
PERSONAL DATA
- Place of Birth: Johannesburg
- Home Languages: seSotho and isiZulu
- Other Languages: isiXhosa, isiSwati, seTswana, xiTsonga, English
- Health: Excellent Condition
- Weight: 86kgs
EXTRA CERTIFICATES
1. Dante Level 1, 2 & 3
Custom
Overcome the fear inside and anything is possible
Timeline
Technical Supervisor
Norwegian Cruise Lines
06.2025 - Current
Technical Production Manager
Norwegian Cruise Lines
04.2025 - 06.2025
Technical Production Manager
Norwegian Cruise Lines
09.2024 - 10.2024
Lighting Technician
Norwegian Cruise Line
12.2019 - 04.2025
Senior Lighting designer and programmer
The Rockwood Theatre
11.2017 - 10.2019
Lighting designer
The South African State Theatre
07.2017 - 07.2017
Lighting designer and programmer
The Market Theatre
07.2017
Lighting Technician/Venue Manager
National Arts Festival
06.2017 - 07.2017
Venue Manager/Technician
Grahamstown National Arts Festival
06.2016 - 07.2016
Lighting designer
Jo’burg Theatre Space.com
06.2016 - 06.2016
Lighting designer/Technician
Jo’burg Theatre Space.com
05.2016 - 04.2016
Lighting designer
Jo’burg Theatre Space.com
03.2016 - 04.2016
Freelance Lighting Technician
The Market Theatre
01.2016 - Current
Freelance Lighting Technician
The Soweto Theatre
01.2016 - Current
Freelance Lighting Technician
Sibikwa Arts Centre
01.2016 - Current
Lighting Designer
The Playhouse (Loft Theatre)
08.2014
Lighting designer/Technician
The Playhouse (Drama Theatre)
08.2013
Theatre Manager (Courtyard Theatre)
Durban University of Technology
11.2011 - 11.2015
Lighting Designer/Technician
Dance Nairobi Festival of Solos and Duets
10.2011 - 10.2011
Lighting designer/Technician
Mhayise Productions’ “Dayimane 2” at Dance Transmission Festival
10.2011 - 10.2011
Venue Manager/ Lighting Technician
Grahamstown National Arts Festival
06.2011 - 07.2011
Production Manager/ Lighting Designer and Technician
Mhayise Productions’ Multi Media Show “Ndlovukazi”
08.2010
Theatre Technician and venue Manager
Grahamstown National Arts Festival
06.2010 - 07.2010
Stage Manager/Assistant Technician
Mhayise Production’s Dance piece “Moses” at FNB Dance Umbrella
03.2010 - 06.2010
Lighting Technician and Stage Manager
Izulu Theatre
05.2009
Theatre Technician
D.U.T Courtyard Theatre
05.2008 - 11.2009
Stage Manager/ Lighting Technician
D.U.T
02.2008 - 03.2008
Diploma of Higher Education - TV/Drama and Production Studies
Durban University of Technology
Matriculation -
Thuto Thebe Secondary School