Creatives reflect on achievements

Trust Khosa

As the 2024 showbiz calendar nears its end, creatives across various art disciplines are reflecting on their achievements.

This year has been marked by lasting memories in numerous art genres, with top visual artists garnering international attention and representing Zimbabwe on the global stage.

Film and television have shown signs of revival, while literary arts, dance, and spoken word continue to thrive.

However, there are genuine concerns that theatre is being overshadowed by other genres, primarily due to a shortage of venues nationwide.

The lack of funding and suitable spaces for performances has significantly hindered the theatre scene.

Theatre is a dynamic platform for storytelling and cultural expression, connecting artists and audiences through live performance.

It remains vital in addressing national issues such as corruption, gender-based violence (GBV), and cultural heritage.

 Despite a growing preference for social media skits, Zimbabwean theatre practitioners are committed to keeping the genre alive.

Key figures like Daves Guzha, Jasen Mphepo, Peter Churu, Daniel Maposa, and Silvanos Mudzvova are leading efforts to revive theatre in the country.

Guzha, in particular, has worked tirelessly to ensure the survival of the genre through his theatre hub, Theatre in the Park, located in the heart of Harare Gardens.

One standout production, “Song Unburied,” is a powerful play rich with historical significance. 

The ritualistic performance received an AA rating from the Censorship Board of Malawi and has been a hit in the region.

It calls for the return of anti-colonial heroine Mbuya Nehanda’s remains from an overseas gallery, resonating strongly with the period the country is campaigning for the return of stolen artifacts.

Mbuya Nehanda’s remains were taken abroad as a symbol of conquest.

The play has also been showcased at Madsoc Theatre in Lilongwe, Malawi, and has captivated South African audiences.

Featuring a star-studded cast, including Dalma Chiwereva, Charmaine Mujeri, Tinevimbo Chimbetete, and mbira player Abel Mafuleni, it was performed in the French-speaking Comoros Islands and received enthusiastic feedback, even being presented in Parliament before an appreciative crowd of 350.

Guzha, who has also made a name as a filmmaker, has revitalised cinema at Theatre in the Park. As part of his community outreach, he has supported comedians through “Comedy Thursdays,” led by Tanya Alex.

Another notable figure in theatre revival is Churu, whose powerful play “Molly Street” has won many hearts. This production, which toured nationally and regionally, demonstrates that theatre remains relevant in contemporary society. The live audience aspect adds credibility, making it a must-see for those interested in pressing national issues.

Directed by Churu and starring actress Chido Joan Tenga, the play explores themes of passion and domestic violence, focusing on the tragic story of a sex worker named Molly, who was killed by her lover.

 Jasen Mphepo has also established a vibrant theatre centre that has become a hub for enthusiasts. The commitment of practitioners like Mphepo ensures that theatre continues to resonate with audiences.

His play, “The Aftermath”, which addresses human experiences, is poignant and thought-provoking, focusing on resilience, hope, and transformation following adversity.

Featuring powerful storytelling and captivating performances, this production is a must-see. Starring Farirai Clarence Borerwe, Munashe Goromonzi, Tapiwa Henry Mutekede, Jasen Mphepo, and Shingirai Manyengavana, the play is available on YouTube. Directed by Norbert Makoche, it vividly explores themes of family, life issues, and unity, remaining relevant to our lives today.

 Other key practitioners include Maposa of Savanna Arts Trust and Mudzova.

As a human rights activist and playwright, Mudzova has gained international recognition for his works addressing corruption and human rights, such as The Final Push (2007) and Missing Diamonds (2016).

Although he operates internationally, he remains committed to ensuring the relevance of Zimbabwean theatre. Lastly, no debate of theatre’s revival would be complete without mentioning Stanley Mambo, who has made his mark in Malawi. Formerly a star of Zimbabwe’s first soap opera, Mambo is proud of his roots. As the owner of Mwezi Entertainment Productions, he has toured the region with his one-man show, “State of the Ape.”

After the dissolution of Studio 263 in 2007, Mambo chose Malawi as a base to pursue his career in film and theatre, demonstrating his dedication to keeping theatre alive.

These enterprising theatre practitioners deserve recognition for their contributions to the arts while they are still active in the field.