Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AWARD-WINNING Zimbabwean actress Charity Dlodlo has been forced to postpone her maiden tour of New Zealand because of the disruption of flights linked to the military conflict in the Middle East.
The actress, who recently scooped the Outstanding Actress award at the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA), had been preparing to travel via Dubai — a key transit route — before flights were suddenly suspended.
Her tour has now been rescheduled.
“I was nearly heartbroken when I learnt the tour might be cancelled but the organisers have supported me in finding new dates,” Dlodlo said.
“I am grateful for the cooperation of the Government of Zimbabwe, through our parent Ministry.
“We are closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and I genuinely wish to travel to New Zealand.
“My visa and air ticket have already been arranged.
“I once considered alternative routes; however, they would have been significantly more expensive compared to my original plans to connect through Dubai, which is relatively cheaper.”
Despite the setback, the veteran actress remains optimistic that the tour will go ahead once the situation stabilises.
“Although many plans have been disrupted, I am hopeful that my tour will proceed as intended.
“After 23 years in the industry, there is no better way to celebrate this milestone than with such a tour.”
The international tour is expected to showcase Dlodlo’s powerful one-woman production “Once an Actress.”
It was written by British playwright Tony Layton.
The play was produced by UK-based creative Patience Tavengwa and directed by Malawian theatre director Stanley Mambo.
Originally, Dlodlo was scheduled to perform the play at the Nelson Fringe Festival last week before heading to the Dunedin Fringe Festival from Sunday to Tuesday next week.
The hour-long performance is a gripping physical monologue tackling serious themes such as gender inequality and violence against women.
What makes the play particularly remarkable is that Dlodlo portrays multiple characters in the production — a rare theatrical feat that has earned praise from theatre critics.
The production has already impressed audiences back home, with successful performances staged at Reps Theatre and Theatre in the Park.
Known to television audiences as Mai Madziva, from the iconic local drama Studio 263, Dlodlo described the New Zealand invitation as a major milestone in her career.
“Being invited to the New Zealand festivals is truly a historic and humbling moment,” she said.
“As the only Zimbabwean selected, I carry this opportunity with immense pride and responsibility.”
“This is no longer just about me or about the play; it is about representing Zimbabwe, its talent, its stories, and its creative spirit on an international stage.”
