SAVANNA Trust has partnered with American Theatre organisation - Silverkite Community Arts LLC (USA) to implement a one-year project — Upskilling Zimbabwean Theatre Groups and Performing Arts Managers for Viability and Sustainability.

The project is aimed at strengthening the capacity of theatre groups and performing arts managers to produce and present high-quality artistic work, effectively manage their organizations and leverage digital platforms to present their work, access new markets, and increase their incomes.

Savanna Trust communications officer, Sebastian Muzanenhamo told Standard Style the expected results are to strengthen institutional capacity of three theatre groups from Zimbabwe.

“This will enhance playmaking and performance skills of the three theatre groups. Increased and effective utilization of digital technologies and platforms for the creation, production, and presentation of artistic work among theatre makers and other cultural and creative practitioners in Zimbabwe.

“Ten arts managers from Zimbabwe graduate with a professional certificate in Arts Management and Cultural Entreprenuership from the University of Zimbabwe. Production and touring of three professional full length productions,”he said.

Muzanenhamo said the project has already identified two groups of interest; Vivid Zim Entertainment from Chipinge and Pezhuba Pachena Cultural Ensemble from Hwange, and work has since commenced.

“The third and final group will be announced in due course. This project has been made possible through the funding of the US Embassy Zimbabwe - Public Diplomacy Section.

“We call upon our valuable stakeholders to support the various activities that will be undertaken throughout the one year cycle,” he added.