Bulawayo actors gain valuable skills at intensive acting workshop

Over 80 aspiring actors and artists took part in a two-day intensive “Workshop for Actors” held at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo recently where participants walked away with valuable lessons and practical tools to shape their theatre careers.

The workshop was facilitated by renowned South African director, actress and mentor Fatima ‘Fatts’ Dike, whose decades-long experience in theatre and film made her a highly respected guide for the aspiring performers.

With more than 50 years of experience as a writer, actress, director and mentor, Dike is regarded as one of the prominent figures in South African theatre and filmmaking, making her a fitting facilitator for the programme.

According to organisers, Dike’s approach was rooted in Ubuntu philosophy, encouraging participants to embrace discipline, creativity and purpose in their craft.

“Fatima approached the workshops from the Ubuntu point of view, which also introduces ethical principles closely aligned to Raja Yoga, which is a form of open-eyed meditation and spiritual study that focuses on reconnecting the inner self (soul) with the divine to achieve self-mastery, inner peace and emotional balance.

“Throughout the course of the workshop, participants were encouraged to aim for their best work rather than monetary gains when it comes to acting. Judging from the response of the participants, their questions, their obvious enthusiasm and engagement, I would say that the workshop was a resounding success,” said one of the organisers.