Zimpapers Logo

Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]

Internationally acclaimed Zimbabwean arts company Savanna Trust is set to shed light on the challenges faced by youths through its latest production, Promise. The play will premiere at the Jason Mphepho Little Theatre in a three-day showcase, starting tomorrow and running until Saturday, with performances at 6pm each day.

The production boasts an impressive cast, featuring multi-award-winning actors Ronald Sigeca and Cadrick Msongelwa, alongside popular actresses Dalma Chiwereva and Ellain Ncube, also known as Cocoa.

Promise is a full-length theatre production written by celebrated veteran playwright Leonard Matsa and directed by multi-award-winning actor and director Teddy Mangawa.

Sebastian Muzanenhamo, communications officer for Savanna Trust, shared that the play was inspired by the harsh realities that many young people face in their pursuit of a better future.

“The play touches on the search for greener pastures, which has led to an increase in migration as young people strive to leave the country in search of opportunities. Additionally, it addresses the growing trend of betting, with the rise of betting houses and apps like Aviator (chindege), and the phenomenon of ‘slay queening,’ a lifestyle that has become a means of earning money for some young women,” said Muzanenhamo.

Promise aims to inspire young people to overcome these adversities and create a promising future for themselves and the next generation.

“Set in the high-density suburbs of Zimbabwe, the play follows a young man as he confronts life’s harsh truths and realities. Despite the slim odds of success, he battles against the challenges of unemployment and strives for a better life. Through the main character, the play vividly portrays the struggles that many young people in the ghetto face, the survival mechanisms they adopt, and their resilience in the face of adversity,” Muzanenhamo added.

– @mthabisi_mthire