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Valerie Mpundu
Harare’s Theatre in the Park has brought back fond memories for cinema lovers by screening locally made films.
One of the productions currently showing at the arts hub is the film “Sinners?” which made waves back in the day.
The film revolves around three “ladies of the night” who take it upon themselves to forego their activities to transform their lives by exploring other opportunities in life.
Carol Mashingaidze, Chipo Bizure and Eunice Tava starred in the movie.
In an interview, Theatre in the Park director Daves Guzha highlighted the need to promote local talent while retaining the local film industry back to its former glory.
“We have decided to popularise local content in film and theatre using this as a nexus between content creator and consumer,” he said.
“There is great talent within our thespian industry which needs to be preserved and treasured while being given the recognition it deserves.
“It has to start with us. We have to promote and prioritise our own. It is only us who can rebuild this industry.”
Guzha has vowed to continue supporting local talent by screening local productions and plays showcasing the pride of the Zimbabwean acting industry.
“We want to bring authentic Zimbabwean films by Zimbabwean content creators with images of our actors directed and produced by locals while addressing the market aspect,” he said.
Initially, the launch was supposed to be run during the pre-covid but unforeseen circumstances saw them shelving the plans.
Under the project, the screening is set to run for two weeks every month. Local film producer and scriptwriter Junior George Jonasi embraced the initiative applauding efforts being made in film and play.
“I am happy about this whole thing, it is like Christmas came early for us as film producers and artists alike,” he said.
“This is what we have been yearning for. If you look at other countries they show their own productions in theatre and cinema.”
Over the past years, the Zimbabwean film industry has produced great productions, which captured the world’s attention.
Some of these productions include “Neria”, “More Time”, “Jit”, “Everyone’s Child”, “Flame” and “Yellow Card” among others.
Online Reporter