HARARE, Zimbabwe – The highly anticipated play Family Riots, written by Gideon Jeph Wabvuta, will make its debut at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe from November 15 to 24, 2024, under the artistic direction of Danai Gurira, Executive Artistic Director of Almasi Collaborative Arts. This unique production, directed by US Visiting Artist Lucie Tiberghien and Zimbabwean director Makomborero Theresa Muchemwa, will bring together the talents of Zimbabwean actors in an intimate portrayal of family conflict and resilience in 1990s Zimbabwe.
By Plot Mhako
Set in Mbare, Family Riots follows Sidney and Primrose, a couple whose marriage unravels under the strain of financial hardship and buried secrets. Against a backdrop of the late 1990s, Wabvuta’s play explores complex familial relationships, ambition, and the harsh realities of life in a rapidly changing society. The story offers a nostalgic glimpse into the everyday lives of Zimbabweans from that era, blending moments of reflection with a deep sense of familiarity that will resonate with local audiences.
Gurira, an award-winning playwright and actress, is excited to bring this “groundbreaking production” to Zimbabwean audiences.”
Known internationally for her roles in The Walking Dead and Black Panther as well as her Tony Award-winning Broadway play Eclipsed, Gurira is committed to amplifying African narratives. Her vision for Almasi Collaborative Arts and her belief in Wabvuta’s work reflect her dedication to sharing Zimbabwean stories on a global scale.
For Wabvuta, an alumnus of Almasi’s programs and a recipient of the Walter Mparutsa Fellowship, Family Riots has been a journey in developing his storytelling voice. His play has previously received acclaim, including distinguished mention for the Rosa Parks and Kennedy Center in 2019 and a showcase at the New Works Two Festival at the University of Southern California. With a Master’s Degree in Dramatic Writing from USC, Wabvuta draws on his deep connection to Zimbabwe and his observations of universal human experiences.
The production’s directorial team includes Lucie Tiberghien, a celebrated US director renowned for her expertise in new work, and Makomborero Theresa Muchemwa, a Zimbabwean director, playwright, and award-winning filmmaker. Together, they aim to elevate Family Riots through a cross-cultural collaboration that aligns with Almasi’s mission to nurture Zimbabwean talent. Tiberghien’s experience directing world premieres across the U.S. and Muchemwa’s dedication to storytelling within Zimbabwe’s arts scene promise to bring Family Riots to life with depth and authenticity.
Almasi Collaborative Arts is committed to showcasing Zimbabwean narratives and has brought together a team of production designers, technical experts, actors, and directors, many of whom are trained through Almasi initiatives, for this project.
With tickets available at magetsi.co.zw and at the National Gallery, audiences can look forward to an unforgettable theatrical experience, as Family Riots presents a new era of Zimbabwean storytelling.”
Tickets are priced at $10, inviting all theater lovers to witness this compelling performance and experience Zimbabwean stories brought to the forefront by a dedicated team of artists.
For more information, visit the National Gallery of Zimbabwe or Almasi Collaborative Arts’ online platforms.
Images – Jon Pilch
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