Nanzikambe Arts will this Friday launch a platform where artists can converge and share ideas for the good of Malawi’s underutilised creative industry.
According to Nanzikambe special projects coordinator Nkhwachi Mhango, The Arts Café at the theatre group’s backyard in Naperi Township is a stage for cultural exchange initiatives, rehearsals, performances, research and promotion of the arts.
Mhango envisages the café bridging the gap left by the closure of the French Cultural Centre in the city and the Goethe Institut in Lilongwe as well as giving artists a sense of belonging.
“It will act as a meeting hub for artists where they can search for arts-related information on the Internet and in books, meet to exchange ideas, publicise their shows and even record productions,” he said.
The café will also showcase monthly performances by locals, including rising stars who need space for development and exposure, in the build-up to Mwezi Wawala International Arts and Theatre Festival which starts in September this year.
Registered members of the cafe will not only have a say on its running but also privileges during shows.
Meanwhile, Nanzikambe actors who are in Germany are finalising rehearsals of The Aid Machinery, alongside the hosts, Theatre Kostanz. The play will tour 19 venues in Germany until July 9, when the team is expected back.
