adminTawanda Marwizi Arts Correspondent
Theatre in the Park has received books worth $2 500 from United States Ambassador to Zimbabwe Harry Thomas in a move that the theatre house said would go a long way in promoting a reading culture. Theatre in the Park director Daves Guzha said the donation was a stepping stone in their endeavour to establish a theatre library at the esteemed venue.“These books have come at that time we are establishing a theatre library that encourages a reading culture within Zimbabwe. We have Stephen Chifunyise’s books so far and with the coming of these ones, we will have a big library,” he said.
He said they were trying to have books that cover all arts disciplines. “That should be the culture. Our artistes should read more so that we have an improved arts environment,” he said. Guzha said they would soon open the library to the public.
“Those who come here doing rehearsals among other things can read the books and borrow them to read at home. However, with donations of such books, we will soon have a library that is open to the public. We would love people to take them home and read but there is a certain amount (deposit) that is affordable and ensures that lost books can be replaced.”
Guzha said the library would have flexible conditions as a way of promoting a reading culture in Zimbabwe.
The theatre guru gave an example of several students in Africa who have managed to publish their dissertations online after college.
“We can do that also here in Zimbabwe and we are planning to have also a vertical library that would have such material. We will have a collection of theatre books and many other books,” he said.
Ambassador Thomas said he was happy to contribute to the Zimbabwean arts industry that has produced the likes of actress Danai Gurira who is making waves on the big screen in the US.
Online Reporter