Curtains rise again at Amakhosi

Brenda P Shumba, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

THE revered Amakhosi Theatre in Bulawayo is opening its doors to both emerging and established talent through its “Plays on Sunday” initiative, set to resume this September. Launched three years ago, the programme aims to provide creatives with a platform to showcase original works while revitalising theatre culture in the city.

The theatre is calling on theatre groups and practitioners to submit their original plays for consideration.
Selected productions will benefit from six weeks of free rehearsal space at the Amakhosi Cultural Centre and will have the opportunity to stage their plays three times at the theatre under a revenue-sharing arrangement based on ticket sales.

To participate, theatre companies or practitioners are required to submit a synopsis, cast details, and preferred performance dates — either via WhatsApp or in person at the centre.

In an interview, Sipho Khamanga, Programmes Manager of the “Plays on Sunday” platform, said the initiative welcomes both seasoned and up-and-coming creatives, with Amakhosi particularly seeking bold, authentic local storytelling. Chosen productions will be expected to adhere to the venue’s policies, community guidelines, and scheduled rehearsal and performance dates.

He explained that the initiative was the brainchild of the late Cont Mhlanga, whose vision was to empower actors and nurture emerging directors.

“The vision of this project is to make theatre affordable, bring it closer to the people, allow fresh talent to shine, and enable seasoned directors to stage as many shows as they wish without worrying about venue fees,” said Khamanga.

According to Khamanga, performances will resume on the first Sunday of September, with a different play scheduled every Sunday afternoon.

“Our objective is to bring audiences back to the theatre and give thespians a space to do what they love most.
“This initiative is not limited to Bulawayo — we are inviting everyone from everywhere to take advantage of this opportunity, especially since the venue is free.

“We already have four plays lined up for September and will be releasing posters soon. Producers from as far as South Africa, Gwanda, Harare, and Masvingo have already shown interest in the platform.”