Mandla N Acquires and Renames Urban Brew Studios
Renowned producer, Mandla N, has made waves in the South African entertainment industry by acquiring the former Urban Brew Studios in Randburg. Renamed Media City, this acquisition marks a significant milestone for Mandla, who has ambitious plans for the facility.
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A Nostalgic Purchase with Modern Aspirations
Mandla N who is the founder of Black Brain Pictures, shared his deep connection with the building, saying;
“I grew up in that building because City Ses’la was shot there. Also, the nostalgia of the shows that were shot there, like YoTV and many others, was a big draw.”
Noticing that the iconic studio had fallen into disuse, Mandla and his team decided to buy and revamp it.
“There was nothing happening with the building, so we decided to buy it. We wanted to revamp it, and since taking over, we’ve hosted Masked Singer and other productions. There’s been a lot of traction,” he explained.
Media City: A Hub for Industry Professionals
Now fully operational and taking bookings, Media City has been transformed into a vibrant hub for film and television production. Mandla emphasized that the facility is open to everyone in the industry.
“Anyone who wants to record or film can come. It’s mainly for the industry,” he stated.
Mandla also revealed that his company is developing a new sitcom and other projects at the new location.
“I’ve been blessed to build something that will create a lasting legacy. Instead of hiring studios, we thought let’s build something we can constantly work from.”
A Legacy in the Making
Mandla noted that the studio complex is still under construction, with ambitious plans for further expansion.
“A huge squatter camp is built there. There’s also a huge supermarket, hospital, prison, police station, government offices, and many facilities. We’re building things I’ve used and needed in the 20 years I’ve been in the game. We’re still working on it, and it’ll be bigger when we’re done with it,” Mandla said.