Almasi Collaborative Arts Launches 2026 Season with Powerful Staged Reading of Sweat
Almasi Collaborative Arts has kicked off its 2026 season with a powerful staged reading of Lynn Nottage’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Sweat, in Harare. The performance was held at the Friendship Bench Hub and marked another milestone in the organization’s mission to bring world-class dramatic literature to Zimbabwean audiences.
Directed by Charlene Mangweni-Furusa, the production showcased a diverse cast of experienced Almasi collaborators and new talent. Among the performers were Bliss Tanatswa, Shane Mahobele, Michael Kudakwashe, Daniel Nxumalo, Deborah Nyasha Kabongo, Tinevimbo David Chimbetete, Chido Chigariro, Nyaradzo F. Nhongonhema, Donne Jone, and Tsungirirai Chenjerayi. Their performances brought Nottage’s compelling narrative to life, highlighting the emotional depth and social commentary embedded in the play.
The production is part of Almasi’s ongoing commitment to fostering dramatic literacy and supporting the professional growth of African artists. Before rehearsals began, a two-day dramaturgical workshop led by Gideon Jeph Wabvuta, Almasi’s programs director, provided participants with an in-depth analysis of the play’s structure. This preparatory phase allowed the team to explore the themes and nuances of Sweat before moving into formal staging.
Director Charlene Mangweni-Furusa reflected on the significance of the play:
“SWEAT takes us through a cross-section of society—from the optimistic outlook of ‘sweating’ hard enough to one day realize one’s dream, to being at the end of the line with no prospects in sight. Everyone is at the mercy of a system that does not recognize them. This is a play I think we can all see a bit of ourselves in.”
Gideon Jeph Wabvuta, who played a key role in the development of the production, emphasized the importance of staged readings in Almasi’s programming:
“Staged readings are the mainstay of Almasi’s development agenda. They enable us to further the dramatic literacy of Zimbabwean artists while sharing rich, beautiful dramatic works with the public. It is a privilege to continue our connection with Lynn Nottage… Sweat is a timely piece, devastating in its exploration of human fragility, yet it serves as a window through which we can find the opportunity to connect over tumultuous times.”
Sweat is the third major initiative for Almasi in 2026, following the successful second edition of the Almasi Writer’s Retreat in March and a February staged reading of Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, directed by Leonard Matsa.
The play itself, which won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, offers a gritty and empathetic look at the deindustrialization of America. Set in Reading, Pennsylvania, Sweat explores how economic instability can strain social and racial relationships, offering a poignant reflection on the human cost of systemic change.
Looking ahead, Almasi will continue to build momentum with a Directing and Stage Management Workshop led by visiting US artist Adam Immerwahr. The workshop will run from April 20 to May 2, providing emerging directors and stage managers with valuable training and mentorship.
Co-founded and led by Executive Artistic Director Danai Gurira, Almasi Collaborative Arts is a Harare-based organization dedicated to strengthening the African arts sector. Through its programs, Almasi provides world-class education and professional opportunities to African creatives, empowering them to share their stories on a global stage.
