The Fringe plays host to the world premiere of ‘Great Zimbabwe’ as 5-strong Zimbabwean group tells a “story of the masses” through theatre and traditional song and dance.
The show opens with the group fighting for democracy, ownership of land and control of their destiny. Having emerged victorious, there then follows an uncomfortably honest finale in which horrifying parallels are drawn: the new “democracy” has simply replaced one dictatorship with another. The generation now in power has inflicted immeasurable suffering on their own children and relatives, and little has changed.
‘Great Zimbabwe’ hits a serious note bringing up a strong political and humanitarian message. If you’re willing to stretch yourself beyond some light-hearted fun, you’ll find a reality and way of life largely obscured from us in the West.
Grassroots Theatre Company have been visiting the UK for over 15 years, bringing community and Zimbabwean culture to all walks of life. They’ve been remarkably successful in dealing with complex social issues through theatre, song and dance. This might seem unlikely, yet these very same tools helped unite and heal much of Zimbabwe just a few decades ago. Unfortunately, should Grassroots perform this same piece of theatre back in their home country it might very well be their last.
Catch it while you can.
4/5 
Alex Bee
Loading ...