adminBecause he is an illegal immigrant, Baba Rose, a role played by Josphat Ndlovu, is eventually picked up and detained by British authorities ready for deportation back to Zimbabwe.
He, however, vows that he would rather die in the UK than go back home, because he has got nothing to show for his stay in the so-called “greener pastures” (UK) for years. He can’t bear to face his daughter, and the rest of his relatives and friends, who all have the impression that he is living pretty in the UK.
Unknown to them, Baba Rose is nothing but a general worker (toilet cleaner), with a fancy title though, BBC, meaning “British bottom cleaner”
During those anguishing moments, while awaiting his fate, he describes Britain as a “sophisticated slave plantation”, where you are constantly asked for your passport, visa, permit and other personal documentation.
On the other hand, his daughter, Rose — role played by Rejoice Simango — who is studying law heavily — depends on her father for survival and hopes to join him in Britain for a better life, once he (Baba Rose) acquires his British citizenship.
The main theme gives an insight of the trials and tribulations that most Zimbabweans go through in the UK as they try to eke a living in that country, despite the unfavourable conditions there.
Like a fly caught in a spider’s web, Zimbabweans who go there with bright prospects, only realise when they get there that the British streets are not paved with gold, but are just gray and full of racist innuendoes and debauchery.
“They (British) use and yet refuse us,” laments the toilet cleaner after being told that he is next in line for deportation. The play explores the issues of homosexuality, corruption, Christianity and sanctions.
Other cast members include Mhondiwa Mhepo, Tafadzwa Bob Mutumbi.
The theatrical production was made possible with the assistance of the British Council, which have been taking different theatrical productions to the City of Kings, at the annual Intwasa ko Bulawayo Arts Festival.
A British citizen, Patrick Naimbana, conceptualised the piece.
Online Reporter