ALMASI Collaborative Arts will this afternoon present a staged reading of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play, A Doll’s House, at Reps Theatre in Harare.
The play is directed by Chelsy G Maumbe and is a testament to Almasi’s commitment to dramatic literacy and its mission to expose creatives to classical works.
“We are excited to have Chelsy at the helm of this workshop,” Gideon J Wabvuta, the Almasi Collaborative Arts’ programmes director, said in a statement.
“Her passion for rigorous storytelling and her experience working with Almasi make her the perfect fit for this project.”
Responding to what drew her to direct A Doll’s House, Maumbe told NewsDay Life & Style that it was the play’s bold exploration of personal freedom, societal expectations and self-discovery — themes that remain just as relevant today as they were in Ibsen’s time.
“Nora’s journey challenges audiences to reflect on autonomy, gender roles, and the pressures of
conformity, making it a deeply resonant piece for modern viewers,” she said.
“Whether we see it through the lens of feminist discourse, personal agency, or the cost of maintaining appearances, the play sparks conversations that transcend its 19th-century setting.”
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The staged reading is a mainstay of Almasi’s programming, offering a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with renowned works in an intimate setting.
It is primarily an educational programme that seeks to promote dramatic literacy amongst artists and audiences alike.
A Doll’s House is a masterpiece of modern drama that continues to resonate with audiences today.
“One of the biggest challenges in directing a classic like A Doll’s House is ensuring that the reading performance feels fresh and immediate rather than distant or overly formal,” Maumbe added.
“The language and social context may seem far removed from today’s world, so I focus on helping actors find emotional truths that resonate personally.
“By emphasising naturalistic delivery, relatable motivations, and the play’s underlying tensions, we bridge the gap between Ibsen’s time and our own, making the story feel urgent and alive for contemporary audiences.”
