Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
A recent masterclass by UK-based, Bulawayo-born lighting designer Mildred “Lighting Bae” Moyo and her protégé, Collin “Scotchy_Black” Sambo, has been praised for transforming the Victoria Falls Theatre Company.
The two-day training in the resort city brought new energy and skills, boosting the company’s work and reputation in Zimbabwe’s theatre scene.
Scotchy_Black, a technician and props and puppet master for Simunye: The Spirit of Africa, a theatre production by the Victoria Falls Theatre Company, joined Moyo in facilitating the sessions under the theme “Introduction to Stage Lighting: From Rigging to Design.”
Victoria Falls Theatre Company general manager Tariro Mushonga, described the workshop as a game-changer. He said the workshop not only reinforced vital safety protocols but also sparked new levels of enthusiasm and professional growth, among participants.
“The masterclass was very impactful. It refreshed essential but often overlooked details in theatre lighting, particularly in areas such as safety, power basics and power management.
Participants were reminded of the importance of checking cables and power points, not only to protect equipment but also to safeguard the theatre and everyone in it,” Mushonga said.
He added that the sessions created valuable space for feedback and evaluation, enabling the company to track the growth of its technicians.
“Beyond the technical aspects, the sessions sparked excitement, curiosity, and a drive to learn more from the wider world of theatre.”
Mushonga said regular training helps sharpen skills and keep passion alive.
“Regular capacity-building is crucial as it strengthens technical skills, reignites passion and ensures that knowledge isn’t lost in the daily rhythm of shows. Trainings are both a refresher and an inspiration, keeping the team eager to push our craft further.”
For Mushonga, the greatest highlight was witnessing his team’s enthusiasm and the workshop’s regional appeal, with one participant travelling from Livingstone, Zambia.
“My highlight was seeing our technicians and cast members so eager to learn and challenge themselves. Having cast members participate gave them a deeper understanding of how lighting shapes the stage and supports their characters. Welcoming a participant from Zambia showed that the demand for this kind of training goes beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
“The workshop proved there’s a hunger for knowledge in lighting and that Victoria Falls Theatre can play a role in meeting that need locally and regionally.”
Buoyed by the success of the inaugural event, Mushonga confirmed that future collaborations with “Lighting Bae” are already on the cards.
The masterclass directly benefitted the Simunye ensemble, which includes Bulawayo Arts Awards winner Charmaine Mudau, National Arts Merit Awards Best Actress recipient Musawenkosi Sibanda, as well as Dexter Mushore, Qeqeshiwe Mntambo, Bruce Mutero, Patience Maseko, Tawanda Dandato, Shirley Baloyi, Talent Moyo, Kumbilani Ncube, Melusi Chitura, Innocent Dube, Brendon Mudzimundiringe, Audrey Maseko, and Nigel “Geometry” Kamunga.
Simunye: The Spirit of Africa is an innovative production designed to modernise tourism and captivate contemporary travellers through powerful storytelling and performance. —@MbuleloMpofu
