Chronicle EditorBrenda Phiri Entertainment Reporter
“She and He”, a play by Edzai Isu Theatre Arts Project and Daughters of Yamaya Collective from the United States had its regional première at the April International Theatre Festival 2014 in Zambia on April 22.
The play officially opened the festival and will have its world première on May 2 at the Harare International Festival of the Arts at the Standard Theatre.
“These festival premières will be followed by performances in other parts of Zimbabwe, Malawi, Botswana, Tanzania, Namibia, South Africa and the US at later dates during the year,” said Edzai Isu founder Tafadzwa Muzondo from Zambia where he is attending the week-long festival.
He said the play, “She and He” will serve as a vehicle for cross-cultural exchange where the artistes and the audience have the opportunity to share perspectives based on the play’s themes. “In addition to the production itself, visiting American artists will offer free workshops that will see local artistes learning from its co-director Dr Joy Leigh Wrolson. He holds a PHD in Theatre from the University of Kansas,” he said.
The play is complimented by a musical feel from versatile guitarist, mbira, marimba and traditional drum player Michael Kamunda.
It was co-written by Staphanie Guirand and Muzondo who also co-direct it with Dr Wrolson.
Fine actors, Everson Ndlovu and Getrude Vimbayi Munhamo compliment each other in bringing to life the story of a Haitian-American woman who is struggling to reconnect with her African roots.
Her new husband, a Zimbabwean has to decide if he is willing to stay behind or join his wife and live the American dream.
Popular actor James “Jingo” Mukwindidza features as production assistant.
Online Reporter
Wenslus Murape