THE curtain may have fallen at Reps Theatre on Sunday, but The Princess and the Frog, a Bayou fairy-tale filled with music, magic and Mardi Gras left Harare audiences enchanted, with its jazz melodies, dazzling choreography and vibrant Mardi Gras-inspired spectacle transforming the capital into a colourful slice of New Orleans.
Drawing nearly 1 200 people during its four-day run, M&M Dance Factory’s latest musical production blended Broadway-style dance, live jazz, colourful costumes and authentic Louisiana flavours into an immersive theatrical experience that captivated families and theatre lovers.
Founded by mother-and-daughter duo Mitzi and Melanie Carruthers, M&M Dance Factory brought together about 50 dancers, singers, actors and musicians to recreate the beloved story featuring Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen, Dr Facilier, Louis the alligator and a lively ensemble of frogs.
The production extended beyond the stage, with pre-show entertainment featuring live music from Fab Fusion, led by Brennan and Faith Wyngard, as audiences enjoyed New Orleans-inspired cuisine, including traditional gumbo.
Live saxophonists, mime artists and painters added to the festive atmosphere, evoking the spirit of New Orleans’ French Quarter.
For Mitzi Carruthers, the production was a deeply personal celebration of her heritage.
“I come from New Orleans and this story is close to my heart because it reflects my people and culture. We wanted to bring the jazz, music, food and atmosphere of New Orleans to Zimbabwe,” she told NewsDay Life & Style.
Carruthers said months of rehearsals culminated in a production that demonstrated the depth of Zimbabwean performing talent.
"When talented people come together, the results are magical. Dance is about far more than steps; it builds confidence, resilience, creativity and teamwork."
Melanie Carruthers, who trained with Disney Cruise Line in the United States, said the production brought together different artistic disciplines while showcasing local talent.
“It is an honour to share the stage with so many gifted Zimbabwean performers. Theatre gives us a unique platform to bring music, dance, storytelling and passion together,” she said.
Cast members described the production as challenging but rewarding.
Ashley Makuwa, who performed the singing voice of Princess Tiana, said the demanding rehearsal schedule was worthwhile after seeing children connect with the character.
“Learning the music in a short space of time was intense, but seeing children recognise Princess Tiana afterwards and ask for photographs made every rehearsal worthwhile.”
King Billias, who portrayed villain Dr Facilier, said the role was among his most enjoyable performances.
“Two months of rehearsals built towards the dress rehearsal where everything suddenly clicked. By the final performance, we had truly found our rhythm.”
Drummer and music teacher Collen Tom said the production required strong sight-reading skills and reflected years of musical training.
Aerial silk performer Amy Cooke said sharing the stage with her nine-year-old daughter Grace made the experience even more special after teaching herself aerial silk techniques over the past three years.
Among the audience was veteran writer Petina Gappah, who attended the production ahead of rehearsals for her upcoming play Yellow Dog Dingo, scheduled for screening in Harare from July 23 to 25.
Gappah praised the growing quality of local theatre and joined audiences in applauding the cast's energetic performances.
M&M Dance Factory said it hopes to revive the production on a larger scale, featuring an expanded jazz band and additional scenes inspired by Disney’s original story.
