Lunchbox Founder and Company Director, Actor, Director, Scriptwriter

With over 35 years of theatre experience, Stuart Palmer is the visionary founder and driving force behind Lunchbox Theatre. Since establishing the company in 2007, he has inspired and educated nearly 220,000 children across the South Western and Eastern Cape through over 1000 live performances, addressing critical social and environmental issues.

Stuart’s lifelong passion for theatre began in school, where he earned multiple acting awards, including three consecutive Best Actor titles and a Cape Times Best Supporting Actor nomination. His professional career spans acting, directing, writing, producing, and teaching, including seven formative years with Cape Town’s Jungle Theatre Company.

Based in Plettenberg Bay, Stuart combines his theatrical expertise with charismatic leadership to grow Lunchbox Theatre’s impact. He has written and directed 10 original shows and continues to perform and create as an actor and theatre maker. Beyond the stage, Stuart’s diverse skills include teaching, fire dancing, juggling, and dynamic facilitation.

Known for his warmth and energy, Stuart is a sought-after MC, drama workshop facilitator, and team builder. His dedication to using theatre as a tool for education and empowerment fuels Lunchbox Theatre’s mission to create a brighter, more conscious future.

Actor, Educator, Musician

Maphiko is a seasoned actor, singer, and arts manager born in Plettenberg Bay. With a strong foundation in theatre, Maphiko trained at New Africa Theatre in acting, playwriting, and singing. His professional stage debut was in 1998 with “The Good Heart.”

Maphiko’s extensive experience spans various roles and organisations. He served as Arts Manager at Simunye Community Centre (2001-2005) and worked as a ceramics moulder at Porcupine Art Studios (2006-2007). Since 2008, he has been an integral part of Lunchbox Theatre, contributing as an actor, song creator, assistant director, and mentor. Appearing in the following productions: The Whale Show, Tree Show, Dream, Thandimpilo, Khokho’s suitcase, The Last Drop, Listen and Dance with Me.

On screen, Maphiko has appeared in films such as “Movie 8” (2018) and “Vashouding” (2008). As the founder of Jazztrailive, a project he established in 2001, Maphiko continues to nurture his passion for the arts.

With a career marked by dedication and versatility, Maphiko Mncedisi Ncedani is a respected figure in South Africa’s arts community.”

Actor, Director, Scriptwriter, Choreographer, Facilitator, Project Manager

Amanda Valela is a dynamic creative force whose career spans acting, directing, choreography, scriptwriting, and youth development. A founding member of Lunchbox Theatre, Amanda has been captivating audiences since 2008 and is a central figure in South Africa’s performing arts landscape.

Born in KwaNokuthula, Amanda has dedicated her life to empowering youth and amplifying marginalised voices through music, dance, and theatre. Her passion for youth development shines in her role as Manager of the After School Activities Program (ASAP), where she teaches Kwaito, Traditional African, and Gumboot Dancing—helping learners build life skills and cultural pride.

Amanda has performed nationally and internationally, represented South Africa at festivals in Sweden, Zimbabwe, and Austria, and earned accolades such as the 2023 Cultural Affairs Award for Innovation in Drama. Her powerful original works address issues like gender-based violence, addiction, and identity.

Whether mentoring facilitators, directing performances, or inspiring young artists, Amanda remains committed to using the arts as a tool for transformation. As she puts it, “I have a power, and I want to use it to make a difference in the lives of young people.”

Actor, Office Administrator, ASAP Facilitator

Known affectionately as Gaya, Gaillene Wildeman is a dynamic force at Lunchbox Theatre, bringing warmth, wit, and wholehearted commitment to everything she does. Since joining the team in 2012 through the Actor Training Programme funded by the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, Gaillene has become a beloved actress, a dedicated After School Activities Program (ASAP) facilitator, and a vital Administrative Manager.

With a natural flair for comedy and an uncanny ability to engage any audience, Gaillene’s performances, whether through a simple eyebrow raise or a perfectly timed line, leave audiences of all ages in stitches. Her multilingual talent (English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa), strong stage presence, and nurturing nature make her a standout performer and mentor. As an ASAP facilitator, she shares her passion for children and her vision for a better South Africa, making a lasting impact on learners in every session.

In her administrative role, Gaillene is the behind-the-scenes backbone,  providing essential support to the team and various projects within the organisation. She is responsible for office management, data entry, staff coordination, and event planning, ensuring that Lunchbox Theatre runs smoothly and efficiently. A proud mother of two, she brings care, humour, and dedication to every part of her work and believes deeply in the transformative power of theatre.

Operations Manager

With a background in conservation, project management, and community engagement, Jess brings her experience in administration and organisational leadership to her role as Operations Manager at Lunchbox Theatre. A dedicated and adaptable team player, she is passionate about values-driven work and is thrilled to be part of a team whose mission aligns with her own.

Having witnessed the transformative impact of Lunchbox Theatre’s performances during her school years, Jess is proud to now contribute to the organisation’s ongoing positive influence in local communities.

As Operations Manager, Jess oversees the daily operations of the organisation, manages development initiatives, ensures regulatory compliance, and provides vital support to the executive team. Her commitment to efficiency and collaboration ensures that Lunchbox Theatre continues to deliver its impactful programs, inspiring change and fostering growth in the communities it serves.