Theatre stage production experienced a new lease of life with the debut of the Theatre Renaissance Cabaret (TRC) held in Lilongwe.
The three-day event, which featured both local and international theatre productions, happened at two venues, Madsoc Theatre and Kumbali Castle.
For local theatre groups, the festival allowed them to approach theatre with courage and hope as it is an art form worth global recognition.
Friends for Benefits Troupe director Geoffrey Magwira commended the festival, saying it was a rare opportunity for theatre practitioners locally.
“It’s inspiring to share the stage with international acts. It gives us hope that we can still improve the local theatre scene,” he said.
Magwira noted that although local theatre has struggled to attract full audiences and gain attention, the international collaborations mark a positive step forward.
“The exposure, the conversations and the techniques are the kind of push local theatre needs and we hope that through such platform we change things for the better,” he said.
Linga Creatives executive director Shafiq Kalumo said the festival enabled them to learn from others how they can improve stage performances.
“This is what we have been missing for long as an industry but this is encouraging as it shows that we are going in the right direction. We have learnt a lot and going forward, we can only hope for the best,” he said.
TRC executive and creative director Stanley Mambo said the festival comes at a critical time for the sector as it aims to revitalise the local theatre.
“We are grateful for the support the debut event has received. This festival is a strategic move to revitalise the local theatre landscape and just show the local audience that theatre is still active,” he said.
Mambo said the incorporation of international productions at the festival was part of promoting and connecting local and international together.
“We want to create a platform that blends different production made locally and internationally. So, we build a connection for our local productions to be appreciated,” he said.
Department of Arts director Humphrey Mpondaminga commended the organisers, Mwezi Arts, for constantly promoting theatre in the country.
“We believe this festival will set the tone for more international collaborations in the future and making it into the national arts calendar,” he said.
The festival drew participants from over 15 countries, including Reunion Island, Zimbabwe, Hongkong, Zambia, South Africa, Kenya and Tunisia.
In an interview, comedian Keila Madi and a member of Teat La Kour Theatre Company from Reunion Island, said the festival offered a platform where stories were told from different countries and meaningful connections were forged.
In addition to performances, TRC offered creative workshops and artist networking sessions, creating learning and partnership opportunities for both emerging and established practitioners.
