Zimbabwean theatre is basking in the spotlight after two powerful productions stole the show at the inaugural Theatre Renaissance Cabaret International Festival, which concluded in Lilongwe, Malawi, over the weekend.
Writer and director Sandra Phiri captivated audiences with her production “I Wasn’t Built to Break,” an all-female cast drama tackling sensitive issues often left unspoken in society.
“The play creates a safe space to openly discuss topics like infertility, sexual abuse, and infidelity within the church,” Phiri explained.
“We wanted to give women a platform to share experiences that are often silenced.”
Also flying the Zimbabwean flag high was Aneunhu Gwatidzo, who presented “That Will Suffice.” He hailed the festival as a vital platform for African theatre voices to be heard on the world stage.
“The Theatre Renaissance Cabaret is an incredible opportunity. I connected with artists from across the continent and beyond, and already doors have opened for residencies, collaborations, and co-creations,” Gwatidzo noted.
Both productions sparked deep cross-cultural conversations, resonating with the festival’s mission of revitalizing theatre through global exchange. Their success underscores Zimbabwe’s growing influence in international arts and culture.
Edited by Godfrey Gusha
