Zimbabwe’s theatre scene is set to come alive this November as Almasi Collaborative Arts presents Family Riots, an evocative play by Gideon Jeph Wabvuta. Under the visionary guidance of celebrated playwright and actress Danai Gurira, Almasi continues to forge pathways for Zimbabwean talent to reach the global stage. This production, premiering at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe from November 15 to 24, invites audiences into a deeply nostalgic and introspective look at family and social dynamics within Zimbabwe’s vibrant cultural context.
The story follows the lives of Sidney and Primrose, a young couple in Mbare whose relationship faces trials of financial hardship and unspoken truths, capturing the nuances of Zimbabwean family life during the late 1990s. In the words of Danai Gurira, “This play isn’t just a narrative; it’s a cultural dialogue, a mirror into Zimbabwe’s past, and a window into universal human experiences.” Family Riots could easily be described as the Zimbabwean counterpart to an August Wilson play, exploring themes of identity, ambition, and resilience in the face of personal and socio-economic challenges.
Gideon Jeph Wabvuta, an alumnus of Almasi Collaborative Arts programs, is no stranger to acclaim. The Walter Mparutsa Fellowship enabled him to earn a Master’s in Dramatic Writing from the University of Southern California, where he honed the script for Family Riots. The play, lauded at the 2019 Rosa Parks and Kennedy Center awards, not only speaks to the specifics of Zimbabwean life but also resonates with universal audiences—a talent Wabvuta has cultivated through his immersion in both Zimbabwean and global storytelling techniques.
Bringing Family Riots to life is a powerhouse duo: US director Lucie Tiberghien and Zimbabwean director Makomborero Theresa Muchemwa. Tiberghien’s reputation precedes her, with over 15 years of groundbreaking work on new plays across the United States and in Paris. Known for her ability to unearth powerful narratives from diverse voices, her direction brings a fresh, international perspective to Zimbabwean stories. Tiberghien’s achievements include directing world premieres at the prestigious La Jolla Playhouse, Arena Stage, and Manhattan Class Company, as well as founding Molière in the Park, a testament to her commitment to accessible theatre.
Muchemwa’s equally impressive portfolio in Zimbabwe’s performing arts scene makes her an indispensable part of this production. With a decade’s worth of directing, playwriting, and independent filmmaking experience, Muchemwa brings a wealth of cultural insight and a passion for Zimbabwean storytelling. Known for her dynamic approach and commitment to community-focused productions, Muchemwa bridges Zimbabwe’s rich traditions with forward-looking artistry, creating an experience that is as visually and emotionally captivating as it is culturally enriching.
For Gurira, Almasi Collaborative Arts is not simply about putting on a production; it is about developing a movement. Family Riots represents the organization’s dedication to cultivating Zimbabwean talent, offering opportunities to local artists, designers, and technical experts who have developed their skills through Almasi’s workshops and fellowships. As Gurira explains, “We’re not just creating a play; we’re laying the foundation for Zimbabwean voices to resonate worldwide, amplifying stories that are too often untold.”
Tickets are available at magetsi.co.zw or at the National Gallery for $10, and Almasi anticipates a full house, especially as the excitement builds. For those familiar with Zimbabwean life in the 1990s, Family Riots offers a sense of nostalgia, a reminder of both the beauty and trials of a bygone era. For international audiences, the production provides a rare look into Zimbabwe’s unique social landscape through the intimate lens of family relationships.
Gurira’s work with Almasi has always centered around the idea that storytelling can be a profound agent of change, a vision fully realized in Family Riots. By showcasing this play, Almasi takes a bold step towards not only expanding Zimbabwean theatre but also building a legacy that could inspire future generations of artists to pursue their craft and share their truths with the world.
Join Almasi Collaborative Arts at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe to witness this transformative moment in Zimbabwean theatre. From the 15th to the 24th of November, Family Riots is not just a play; it is a celebration of Zimbabwean artistry, resilience, and storytelling on the rise.
