Invest more in theatre, Van Vicker tells Malawi

Nollywood movie star Van Vicker has advised Malawi Government and the corporate world to invest more in theatre industry if the dreams to reach the heights of Ghana and Nigeria in Africa in movie production are to be realised.

The Ghanaian actor made the call last Sunday at the Sunbird Capital hotel Marquee where he performed alongside Rising Choreos Theatre Company in a stage play titled Well Calculated.

This is the second call to Malawi from top Nollywood actors. The first to make the appeal was Nigerian actress Patience Ozokwor aka Mama G.

Vicker said Malawi has a lot of talent and potential to do well in theatre industry. The actor cited good environment and good patronage at stage plays as indication that the industry can do better if well supported.

“In Ghana and Nigeria, it started on a low note but after people saw that there was a lot of talent and entertainment, both government and the business world pumped in more funds and see today, the industry is doing well. Malawi can also do the same and I truly believe that it can do better, “said the actor.

As a starting point, the actor donated a K500 000 cheque from his foundation to Association of Teaching English in Malawi (Atem) and also pledged to feature two actors from Malawi in his next movie.

In a separate interview, one of the top music artists in the country who also featured in the play Lucius Banda said Malawi should take the offer seriously and said as a fun lover, he will support the initiative.

“This should be welcomed with seriousness and that should be the platform to breakthrough into the industry. I have been failing to go international with my music and I think it is time I should try movies, I am also ready to support the industry,” said Banda.