Chipawo Celebrates ‘An African Christmas’ at Theatre in the Park
Children from Harare, Mazowe, and Karoi are coming together to rehearse for one of the most anticipated events in the Children’s Performing Arts Workshop (Chipawo) calendar—the annual Christmas Stage Show. Taking place tonight at Theatre in the Park, the show, titled An African Christmas, is set to provide a uniquely African experience for children, celebrating the spirit of Christmas in Zimbabwean culture.
This year’s show is centered around the theme What We Want, encouraging children to express their desires and dreams in a cultural context that resonates with their own lives. Chipawo is committed to creating a Christmas experience that allows children to connect with their heritage, emphasizing the importance of seeing local role models instead of looking to foreign figures for inspiration. This initiative is a significant step in fostering a sense of national pride and cultural awareness among Zimbabwean youth.
In line with its mission, Chipawo invites children from various schools, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds in towns and rural areas across Zimbabwe, to participate in the event. Children from other countries are also welcome to join, making it a truly inclusive celebration. The performances, often featuring over 200 children on stage, highlight the diverse talents and creativity of Zimbabwean youth.
The Christmas show is not just a live event; it will also be filmed and broadcast by ZBC-TV on Christmas Day next year, allowing a wider audience to enjoy the performances. In fact, last year’s show will air on Christmas Day this year, continuing the tradition of bringing joy to families across the nation during the holiday season.
Founded 35 years ago, Chipawo, which stands for “Children’s Performing Arts Workshop,” embodies the Shona word chipawo, meaning “please give” or “give also.” The organization was created to provide a platform for adult artists to share their knowledge and skills with the younger generation. Today, its core activity revolves around arts education for development and employment, offering children the opportunity to express themselves through performing arts while learning valuable skills for their future.
Chipawo’s Christmas Stage Show is more than just a performance—it’s a celebration of Zimbabwean culture and a chance for children to take center stage, showcasing their talent and imagination. This event is not only about entertainment but also about nurturing a sense of identity and pride in Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.
