The Zimbabwean theatre play Family Riot has received at least four nominations for the National Arts Merit Awards (Namas). The awards ceremony will be held on March 1 at the Hippodrome in Harare.
Family Riots, written by Gideon Jeph Wabvuta, made 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.
The play is nominated in the Theatre category for the Outstanding theatrical production. While members of cast — Michael Kudakwashe, who plays the role of Sydney and Caroline Mashingaidze Zimbizi, who plays Tete Sabhina were nominated for outstanding actor and actress, respectively.
Family Riots writer Gideon Jeph Wabvuta is also nominated for the outstanding playwright.
Directed jointly by US visiting artist Lucie Tiberghien and Zimbabwean Makomborero Theresa Muchemwa, Family Riots is a play that explores ambitions, aspirations and unresolved wounds of a young family in Mbare,” Wabvuta said.
“It follows the conflicts of family relationships in Zimbabwe during the late 1990s.
“The play delves into the lives of Sidney and Primrose, a couple whose once-idyllic life unravels due to financial strain and personal secrets.
“It offers a provoking interrogation on the human condition in a rapidly changing society.
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“The play taps into the nostalgia of everyday Zimbabwean life in that era, blending reflection with a deep sense of familiarity for those who lived through it.”
For Wabvuta, an alumnus of Almasi’s programmes 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 Centre 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
Meanwhile, yesterday (Saturday) Almasi Collaborative Arts hosted a Staged Reading of Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's, at Rep's Theatre. Directed by the talented Chelsy G Maumbe, the production 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 G Maumbe at the helm of this workshop," said Wabvuta.
"Her passion for rigorous storytelling and her experience working with Almasi make her the perfect fit for this project."
The staged reading is a mainstay of Almasi's programming, offered a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with renowned works in an intimate setting. It was primarily an educational programme; that sought 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.
