‘Song Unburied’ Mesmerises Harare Audiences and Raises Call for Theatre Revival

Were you part of the crowd that witnessed the unforgettable performance of Song Unburied at Harare’s Theatre in the Park on July 18 and 19? If not, you missed an emotionally charged and thought-provoking masterpiece delivered by a stellar cast including Charmaine Mujeri, Dalma Chiwevera, Tinevimbo Chimbetete, and Jacob Mafuleni.

Set in the atmospheric—albeit aging—Theatre in the Park, the two-night showcase offered more than just entertainment. It invited reflection, cultural pride, and stirred social conversations around Zimbabwe’s post-colonial journey. The play, penned by celebrated writer and cultural critic Panashe Chigumadzi, made a remarkable debut and was met with resounding applause from audiences who later expressed hope it would be adapted into a feature film.

Song Unburied stands as Chigumadzi’s first theatrical script, but the complexity and depth of her narrative belied her newcomer status. Directed by acclaimed producer Daves Guzha of Rooftop Promotions, the production intertwines Zimbabwe’s turbulent post-independence era with the lingering spiritual burden surrounding the unreturned remains of national spirit medium Mbuya Nehanda.

The two-night performance also featured a rare and intimate post-show discussion with the cast and crew. During this session, Guzha made a passionate appeal for support, revealing the theatre’s urgent need for a US$5,000 facelift. The funds would go toward upgrading sound and lighting systems, refurbishing benches and floors, improving backstage facilities, restrooms, and ventilation, and providing essential Wi-Fi for artists and guests.

“Theatre in the Park is not just a venue,” Guzha said. “It is a creative hub used by musicians, theatre groups, churches, businesses, and many community-driven initiatives. It deserves to reflect the spirit and talent it hosts.”

The call for support was not just a plea—it was a reminder of how community-owned artistic spaces can thrive with collective backing. Guzha extended his appeal to corporates, private organisations, and philanthropic individuals, urging them to invest in a venue that nurtures Zimbabwe’s artistic spirit.

Musically, the play was enhanced by live performances of traditional and contemporary mbira. Although original composer Abel Mafuleni was on an international tour, his father Jacob Mafuleni, a renowned instrument maker and performer, stepped in to deliver an exceptional soundscape. Songs such as Karigamombe, Karimudande, and Chamutengure filled the air with soul-stirring resonance.

For those who missed the Harare performances, there’s still a chance to catch Song Unburied as it heads to the prestigious Edinburgh Theatre Festival this August—marking another milestone for Zimbabwean theatre on the global stage.

With talent this extraordinary and stories this powerful, the stage deserves to shine just as brightly as those who perform on it.