CELEBRATED playwright Lynn Nottage, a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, is in Zimbabwe leading an intensive Re-Write Masterclass, a landmark event for the country’s creative writing and theatre communities.
Hosted by Almasi Collaborative Arts in partnership with the Zimbabwe German Society, this two-week masterclass started on July 5 and ends tomorrow at the Zimbabwe German Society in Harare.
Nottage, renowned for her powerful plays such as Sweat and Ruined, is celebrated for her socially engaging storytelling, often focusing on the lives of black working-class individuals.
Her presence in Zimbabwe represents a significant moment for the local theatre scene, providing invaluable mentorship to six talented Zimbabwean playwrights: Amanda Ranganawa (Mutare), Batsirai Chigama (Harare), Kingsley Chinhanu (Mutare), Philani Nyoni (Bulawayo), Rudo Mutangadura (Harare) and Tatenda Mutyambizi (Harare).
The Re-Write Masterclass is a key component of Almasi’s new initiative, Africa Voices Now, A Festival of New African Plays, which aims to elevate and globalise African narratives.
This programme highlights the importance of rewriting as a critical tool in developing polished, professional works.
Under Nottage’s guidance, the selected playwrights are refining their scripts to meet international standards.
The masterclass will culminate in a public showcase of scenes from the playwrights’ works-in-progress tomorrow, from 11am to 1pm at the same venue.
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This event offers a unique opportunity for the community to engage with new African narratives and witness exciting developments in the local theatre landscape.
Admission to the showcase is free, with everyone invited to experience the rich creativity emerging from Zimbabwe’s vibrant arts scene.
