By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
A new play sets out to entice audiences to pay attention to Climate Change, albeit with great success, in an entertaining but thought-provoking way through a fusion of drama and music.
Titled How is the Weather, the play is a first in trying to bring the seriousness Climate Change in a way that easily captures the imagination of audiences while proffering possible solutions.
Staged in Gwanda, Hwange, Bulawayo and now in Harare as part of a collaborative effort between Zimbabwe’s Inkululeko Yabatsha School of Arts and Germany’s Theatre Strahl.
This innovative and thought-provoking play delves into the urgent issue of climate change, offering a powerful and artistic account of its impact on the world.
The production is a work in progress that will culminate into a greater theatre performance with input from different backgrounds, ending in Germany at Theatre Strahl.
“How is the Weather” has no prepared script as it was informed by input from young people in schools from workshops held in Zimbabwe and Germany. The cast also bring their own experiences and research to the project.
The joint project features four talented cast members from IYASA and Theatre Strahl, including Natascha Manthe (Theatre Strahl), Nqobizitha Ncube (IYASA), Justus Verdenhalven (Theatre Strahl), and Dorcas Ngwenya (IYASA).
This quartet brings to life a range of characters from diverse backgrounds, each with their unique perspective on the climate crisis.
The collaboration brings together the talents of two co-artistic directors – Inkululeko Innocent Dube from Zimbabwe and Anna Vera Kelle from Germany – to create a truly global production that transcends borders and boundaries.
“Audiences can expect something different, yet uniquely created. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy the piece that uses entirely different techniques to combine elements from Germany and Zimbabwe that vary and yet converge into a worthy piece of art,” says Nkululeko Innocent Dube.
“How is the Weather” is a deeply immersive and multidimensional theatre experience that tackles the complexities and repercussions of climate change.
“Combining dynamic storytelling, music, and dance, this production captures the attention of audiences of all ages and backgrounds, taking them on a thrilling journey to explore the climate change crisis and its impact in our interconnected world.
“The production aims to raise awareness of the climate change issue, foster understanding of different perspectives, and spark conversation on how we can address this crucial matter,” said Anna Vera Kelle, co-producer.
The production “How is the Weather” is a joint collaboration between IYASA and Theatre Strahl, with generous support from the Goethie Institut, NEUSTART KULTUR and Internationaler Koproducktionsfonds. Partnering for the project in Zimbabwe is Theatre in the Park, Shangano Arts Trust and TIME Project.
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