By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Harare’s Jasen Mphepo Little Theatre was the place to be on Saturday night as Almasi Collaborative Arts kicked off its first-ever “Africa Voices Now! A Festival of New African Plays” — and what a debut it was.
The intimate 60-seat theatre pulsed with energy as the sold-out crowd witnessed the premiere of “Can We Talk?” — a moving play by award-winning poet and playwright Batsirai Chigama.
The performance closed to a standing ovation, sealing a triumphant start to a festival that has been 13 years in the making.
Among the glittering audience was Danai Gurira, Hollywood actress and Almasi co-founder, who soaked in the magic alongside Zimbabwe’s theatre elite, artists, and fans of authentic African storytelling.
The venue itself was transformed into a visual wonderland thanks to visual artist Takunda Regis Billiat, whose installation turned recycled and upcycled materials into towering entry pillars, an immersive tunnel, and striking art pieces scattered across the theatre grounds.
The tunnel, lined with giant photo canvases, told the inspiring story of Almasi’s artistic journey — from its humble beginnings to its international acclaim.
“AVN is on! Don’t miss it,” Gurira said with excitement. “I can’t remember a more impactful moment in theatre. The energy, the community, the story of us as a people — all embodied on that stage. Even those who don’t usually go to theatre will be converted after this.”
“Can We Talk?” showcased the raw talent nurtured through Almasi’s training programmes and embodied the organization’s bold mission: “Bringing the African Narrative to the Global Stage.”
The night wasn’t all drama — in the best way possible. Afro-jazz songbird Hope Masike delivered a spirited set at the festival’s newly created AVN Chill Zone, where music, art, and community vibes blend seamlessly each evening from 4:30 PM.
With live performances, art installations, and a lineup that celebrates the best of African theatre, Africa Voices Now! has set a dazzling new standard for Zimbabwe’s creative scene.
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