Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
VISUALLY-IMPAIRED actress Edith Masango is on cloud nine as she takes her one-woman play titled “Muchazondida” on a countrywide tour.
She started the 2026 season on a high note, having held two sold-out performances earlier this month at Theatre in the Park, nestled in the heart of the Harare Gardens.
Her production team has lined up a series of shows to ensure that Masango explores both the real and imagined challenges faced by individuals living with disabilities.
The play was co-written by Fungai Chinogaramo and Special Matarirano, with direction by Eunice Tava.
Tanaka Mwanangeni from Music Crossroads Zimbabwe Academy provided the soundtrack.
As she gears up for the tour, she has two confirmed shows in Kadoma and Masvingo.
The Kadoma performance is set for Campbell Theatre on March 7, while the Masvingo show will be held on March 14 at Charles Austin Theatre.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Masango was blown away by the rave reviews the play has been receiving.
“Theatre is really thriving in Zimbabwe, and I think it’s a great platform to share our stories and help people understand the messages in them,” she stressed.
“I also believe that the audience are truly appreciating theatre in Zimbabwe.
“I am ready for the tour, and we promise the best. I am proud of the team I am working and touring with.”
Masango urged theatre lovers to show up in numbers.
“We are calling on fans to continue supporting us to ensure that theatre makes an impact. At the moment, we are eager to go and want to deliver to the best of our abilities. There is more to come this year in theatre, and fans should brace for spectacular shows,” asserted Masango. The play’s co-writer, Matarirano, confirmed the nationwide tour, which is set to catapult Masango to dizzying heights.
“We have planned upcoming tours with Kadoma and Masvingo already confirmed. Currently, we are also finalising a venue in Bulawayo to ensure we cover all the major towns in Zimbabwe,” he shared.
“The reviews and feedback from fans are overwhelming since our actress nailed it.
“Those who attended the two shows in Harare earlier this month can attest to that.
“She is super talented and knows her craft exceptionally well.” Matarirano urged fans to embrace Masango’s initiative as a fierce advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.
The 33-year-old, who has been in the game for years, has established herself as a torch-bearer for artistes with disabilities.
Her director, Tava, recently praised Masango for her creativity.
“This is not our first collaboration, and I have always believed in her potential and contributions to the arts.
“Despite being blind, Edith performs most tasks independently on stage, moving with remarkable confidence and skill, which enhances her talent,” she stated.
She added: “Working with Edith has been an amazing experience because we have learned a lot from her. Of course, there are some tricks and tips that we taught her, and I hope these will help her significantly.
During performances, she senses changes in lighting, which enables her to adjust to the scenes.” According to Matarirano’s synopsis, the theatrical production “Muchazondida” tells the story of a child who was born blind and focuses on the economic, religious, traditional, and social myths the child faces as she grows up.
“The play is a solo act performed by Edith Masango, who is visually impaired, and it aims to develop, encourage and motivate people who are differently abled to identify, pursue, and fight for their rights in a society filled with stereotypes and segregation. It emphasises the central theme of empowering these demographic groups to dis-cover their inner, God-given abilities and talents as a means to combat stereotypes,” he shared.
“The play began rehearsals in October 2025 and culminated in its premiere at Jason Mphepo Little Theatre on December 12, 2025. It attracted nearly 70 viewers from the public and organisations that support people with disabilities. Audience members included representatives from Zimoco, where Edith Masango works as a switchboard operator, as well as participants from Jairos Jiri, Dorothy Duncan Braille School, and St. Christopher, among others.”
He added: “The play moved many audience members to tears. It featured both humour and emotional scenes that took viewers on a journey of introspection. Some even vowed to watch it repeatedly due to its unique artistic aura.” Masango is one of the versatile creatives who have defied the odds by raising awareness about disability.
Her play has also been acclaimed for addressing issues including community development and sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR).
In addition to its powerful message, “Muchazondida” serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of individuals facing adversity.
By shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of those living with disabilities, the play fosters a sense of community and understanding, encouraging audiences to become advocates for change in their own lives and communities.
Masango has been at the forefront of empowering people living with disabilities.
With most theatre practitioners facing financial constraints, Matarirano is among the resilient producers fighting to keep theatre relevant.
He is in the same league as Daves Guzha, Jasen Mphepo, Daniel Maposa, Peter Churu and Nkululeko Dube, who have been working hard to ensure it remains relevant.
