Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu
THIS Saturday, Almasi Collaborative Arts will present a staged reading of August Wilson’s acclaimed play, Jitney, at the Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre in Harare. Directed by Charmaine Mujeri, the reading will showcase a blend of established Almasi performers and fresh talent, including Michael Kudakwashe, Tanatswa Kumirai, Buhlebenkosi Chinhara, Musawenkosi Saruro, Boniface Chimedza, Takunda Chiposi, Tinevimbo Chimbetete, AneUnhu Gwatidzo, Ngonidzashe Chikowore, and Minenhle Mguni.
Jitney is a compelling exploration of the lives of African American taxi drivers in the 1970s, providing a poignant snapshot of men navigating the margins of society. Set in the Hill District of Pittsburgh, the play follows a group of Black men striving to make a living through a makeshift taxi service.
The narrative gains intensity with the return of owner Jim Becker’s son, Clarence, from prison, coinciding with a critical moment for the cab company.
August Wilson, often referred to as “theatre’s poet of Black America,” is best known for his ten-play series, The Pittsburgh Cycle, which chronicles the experiences and heritage of the African American community throughout the 20th century. His works delve into themes of identity, struggle, and resilience, making them resonate deeply with audiences.
In discussing her vision for the staged reading, Charmaine emphasised the relevance of Wilson’s work today.
“Jitney offers a powerful and timeless lens through which we can examine the multifaceted struggles of Black men — their search for identity and their determination to build lives within a system that often works against them,” she said.
This perspective is particularly significant in a contemporary context, as the issues Wilson addressed remain prevalent in society.
Aligned with Almasi’s innovative approach to staging readings, the development of Jitney will kick off with a two-day dramaturgical workshop.
This intensive session, led by Almasi’s Programmes Coordinator Gideon Jeph Wabvuta, will engage the cast, director, and a cohort of Almasi-trained directors, playwrights, and actors. This foundational work is intended to enhance the subsequent rehearsal process, culminating in the live performance.
Wabvuta expressed his enthusiasm for revisiting Wilson’s work, highlighting its linguistic beauty and emotional depth.
“It’s a joy to dive back into an August Wilson play; there is a beauty to his language that feels so familiar. I’m excited for the audience to watch this play because I know they will recognise these characters,” he said.
Co-founded by Danai Gurira, Almasi Collaborative Arts champions dramatic literacy and creative opportunities, aiming to elevate African stories globally. Their staged reading of Jitney is part of this series. This year, Almasi partnered with The Public Theatre of New York for the first Zimbabwean Writer’s Retreat in Harare (March 31 to April 12), offering five emerging playwrights an immersive space to develop their craft.
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