Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
ZIMBABWEAN theatre is finding its new heartbeat within the walls of the Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre where Africa Voices Now! opened to a sold-out crowd on Saturday night.
Tickets for the premiere of Batsirai Chigama’s play ‘Can We Talk?’ sold out days in advance, turning the festival’s first night into an unforgettable celebration of storytelling, legacy and rebirth.
The festival, presented by Almasi Collaborative Arts, marks a 13-year journey of cultivating local talent under the vision of Hollywood actress Danai Gurira, who co-founded the organisation to “bring the African narrative to the global stage.”
This year’s edition carries a special emotional weight— it is dedicated to the late theatre icon Walter Muparutsa, whose legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and directors.
His influence was deeply felt throughout the evening with organisers, artists and audience members all acknowledging the giant whose shoulders they stand on.
The opening night of ‘Can We Talk?’ ended in a roaring standing ovation, with some patrons visibly emotional as they hailed the homegrown talent on stage. Inside, the Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre had been completely transformed. Visual artist Takunda Regis Billiat reimagined the space with a striking art installation made from recycled materials — including towering pillars, an immersive tunnel, and sculptures symbolising the resilience of African artistry.
The tunnel featured an inspiring photo timeline of Almasi’s 13-year journey, reminding guests how far Zimbabwean theatre has come.
Gurira was visibly moved.
“AVN is on!,” Gurira said.
“I cannot remember a more impactful moment in the theatre than being among Zimbabweans watching our own stories come alive on stage.”
The night also saw a lively performance by Hope Masike, who opened the outdoor AVN Chill Zone — a music and social space featuring daily live performances, food vendors and relaxed hang-outs for theatre lovers.
As excitement builds, Almasi also premired special Benefit Night on Friday, featuring These Humans Are Sick by Tatenda Mutyambizi.
The performance will honour the memory of Muparutsa and raise funds for the Walter Muparutsa Fellowship, which supports emerging artists in training and international mentorship.
Mathew Masinge