adminTrust Khosa
IYASA has gone into bed with Germany’s Theatre Strahl.
Titled “How is the Weather/Wie Das Wetter.”, the play will be staged tonight at Theatre in the Park, courtesy of Rooftop Promotions.
Rooftop Programmes manager, Passmore Ndlovu, confirmed the show.
“The new play ‘How is the Weather/Wie Das Wette.’ will be happening at Theatre in the Park on Wednesday 31 May 2023 (today).
“This innovative and thought-provoking play delves into the urgent issue of climate change, offering a powerful and artistic account of its impact on the world.
“The production is a work in progress that will culminate into a greater theatre performance with input from different backgrounds, ending in Germany at Theatre Strahl,” he said.
Ndlovu assured fans that the play was unique.
“The play ‘How is the Weather’ has no prepared script as it was informed by input from young people in schools from workshops held in Zimbabwe and Germany.
“The cast also bring their own experiences and research to the project.
“The joint project features four talented cast members from IYASA and Theatre Strahl, including Natascha Manthe (Theatre Strahl), Nqobizitha Ncube (IYASA), Justus Verdenhalven (Theatre Strahl) and Dorcas Ngwenya (IYASA).
“This quartet brings to life a range of characters from diverse backgrounds, each with their unique perspective on the climate crisis.”
He hailed the power of collaborative efforts as they bring out the best from theatre companies.
Similar sentiments were echoed by IYASA director, Nkululeko Dube.
“The collaboration brings together the talents of two co-artistic directors – Inkululeko Innocent Dube from Zimbabwe and Anna Vera Kelle from Germany – to create a truly global production that transcends borders and boundaries.
“Audiences can expect something different, yet uniquely created.
“Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy the piece that uses entirely different techniques to combine elements from Germany and Zimbabwe that vary and yet converge into a worthy piece of art.”
Anna Vera Kelle believes the play is relevant as it tackles one of the raging global issues – climate change.
“The production aims to raise awareness of the climate change issue, foster understanding of different perspectives, and spark conversation on how we can address this crucial matter,” said Kelle.
To date, the play has been staged in Hwange’s Little Theatre, Bulawayo at the Zimbabwe Academy of Music with the curtain coming down today at Theatre in the Park before heading to Berlin’s Theatre Strahl Ostkreuz.
The production is a joint collaboration between IYASA and TheatreStrahl, with generous support from the Goethe Institut, Neustart Kultur and Internationaler Koproducktionsfonds.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter