Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
In a remarkable display of solidarity among theatre practitioners, seven prolific stars, led by actors and directors Daniel Maposa and Jasen Mphepo, have come together to stage the play “Women’s Night”. This production promises four nights filled with laughter and entertainment.
Running until September 20, at the Mphepo Little Theatre in Eastlea, Harare, the play also marks a significant reunion for some of the actors, who are sharing the stage again after 20 years of pursuing solo careers.
This collaboration between Savanna Trust and Kuckuck Productions was directed by Swiss producer Roger Nydegger, who will also showcase five other talented theatre professionals: Stewart Sakarombe, Ellaine Ncube, Henry Mutekede, Tafadzwa Mutumbi and Francis Nyakuhwa.
With such an impressive cast performing under one roof, an unforgettable experience is guaranteed.
Nydegger’s enduring passion for theatre has touched the hearts of many over the years, and this production is no exception. One of the event coordinators, Maposa, stressed that the play is a must-watch since it showcases the power of collaboration, which many in the creative sector have been yearning for.
“The production marks an important step in strengthening cultural exchange while showcasing local talent on the professional stage. The play ‘Women’s Night’ is a comedy that promises to deliver laughter while sparking thought-provoking conversations,” he shared in a statement.
“The significance of this production is to amplify cross-cultural collaboration and expand the reach of Zimbabwean theatre. Working with international partners and directors allows Savanna Trust to push creative boundaries while strengthening the professional capacity of local theatre artists.”
Maposa, who has been championing theatre for development as an instructor and director, believes the event is a game-changer for those yearning for growth in this sector.
“The production is expected to attract wide audiences, bringing together comedy, satire and critical storytelling in ways that both entertain and challenge perspectives.”
According to the synopsis of “Women’s Night,” the play is a must-see as it is intriguing and engaging. It tackles the realities that friends face in life.
“Five friends face a crisis as they must repay a US$60 000 debt within three weeks or risk imprisonment. Desperate after numerous failed attempts, the men resolve to organise a male striptease show to raise the funds —an idea that sends them on a hilarious journey of self-discovery and camaraderie. They bungle through rehearsals with embarrassing mishaps and tackle personal insecurities.
“They gradually form stronger bonds and unite to push ahead with the audacious performance, embracing their vulnerability and teamwork. Blending humour with social commentary, the play invites audiences to laugh, reflect and celebrate resilience through the power of storytelling,” reads part of the synopsis.
The staging of this play has been hailed as a game-changer, as the genre was in dire straits. Known for promoting social dialogue, ‘Women’s Night’ is being staged at a time when theatre practitioners have been striving to revive this genre.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Mphepo spoke about being reunited with several cast members of this new play.
“We are always in touch, but on stage, I think we last shared the stage with some of these guys 20 years ago, especially Daniel Maposa. With Stewart Sakarombe, it has been many years, and we are relishing this experience,” he noted.
Sharing how it was working with the star-studded cast of “Women’s Night,” Mphepo expressed excitement about the experience. “It was quite an amazing experience working with great minds. We clicked as veteran theatre practitioners.”
Mphepo, who has also hosted comedy nights featuring the new school of comics at his venue, expressed confidence in the positive feedback that it has garnered.
“The whole cast is made up of experienced actors and young talent, and we are glad we had an amazing experience doing rehearsals together.”
Over the years, theatre has proven to be one of the most popular genres in Zimbabwe despite a lack of funding and venues. Amakhosi Theatre in Bulawayo, Charles Austin Theatre (Masvingo), the new-look Theatre in the Park (Harare), Reps Theatre and 7 Arts Theatre (Harare) are some of the popular venues that have been hosting plays.
However, the major concern among creatives is that most venues are priced beyond their reach. This has sparked debate among theatre practitioners who have been longing for the introduction of more venues and festivals.
Initiatives by individuals like Maposa, Mphepo, Daves Guzha, Peter Churu and UK-based theatre director Enisia Mashusha have been paying off, although more partnerships are still anticipated for the growth of the genre.
Most production houses are self-funded, with a few receiving sponsorship from various organisations, which is hard to come by for many in this particular genre known for promoting dialogue, awareness and entertainment.
