Bulawayo Theatre Triumphs at Bulawayo Arts Awards with Ipi Ntombi

Bulawayo Theatre has firmly reasserted its dominance in Zimbabwe’s arts scene after winning two major accolades at the seventh edition of the Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA), thanks to its reinvention of the classic musical Ipi Ntombi. The awards ceremony took place on December 20 at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC).

The theatre company was honoured with the Qhube Outstanding Theatre Production award, a category renamed in tribute to the late playwright and director Sihlangu Dlodlo. Bulawayo Theatre competed against Umthombo Arts’ Grand Taimaz and Bambelela Arts Ensemble’s Without a State.

The production’s strength was further recognised as cast member Praise Ncube won the Outstanding Theatre Actress award for her lead role in Ipi Ntombi, competing with Memory Zikhali of Grand Taimaz and Nomvelo Behane of Without a State.

Production secretary Thandolwenkosi Ndlovu expressed the team’s gratitude for the recognition, describing the wins as a validation of their work throughout 2025. “It’s a great honour for us that Ipi Ntombi managed to scoop two awards at one of the country’s glamorous awards ceremonies. We ticked all the boxes with this production, from sold-out shows in Bulawayo and Harare to overwhelmingly positive reception. Winning this accolade was a perfect way to cap off our year,” Ndlovu said.

Director Sandy Bradnick accepted the Qhube Outstanding Theatre Production award on behalf of Bulawayo Theatre. Lead actress Praise Ncube said the recognition reignited her passion for performing. “Being part of the Ipi Ntombi cast allowed me to rediscover myself. This BAA will motivate me to work harder and achieve more in the arts industry,” she said.

Originally composed and produced in 1974 by South African writers Bertha Egnos Godfrey and her daughter Gail Lakier, Ipi Ntombi was adapted by Bulawayo Theatre for local audiences under Bradnick’s direction. Music direction was led by Vusi Ndebele, while choreography by Khaya Arts’ Future Dube brought the story to life through vibrant movement. Set construction and props by Candy and Amy Murrell added authenticity to the production.

In 2025, the play was staged at the Bulawayo Arts Festival, Intwasa Arts Festival, and Reps Theatre in Harare, among other notable events. The storyline follows a young black man who leaves his rural home and wife to work in Johannesburg’s mines, reflecting the experiences of many southern Africans during apartheid. The production combines South African musical styles such as imbube, maskandi, and jazz with lively traditional dance.

Choreographer Future Dube praised the team’s dedication, noting the challenges faced in adapting the production for modern audiences. “We had to improvise and adapt to different cast strengths and limited access to original props. Winning these awards reflects our commitment and teamwork, and I hope it motivates everyone involved for the future,” Dube said.

Bulawayo Theatre’s success at the BAAs underscores its role as a leading force in Zimbabwean theatre, demonstrating that strong storytelling, skilled direction, and collaborative effort can elevate local arts to national acclaim.