Almasi Collaborative Arts continues its high-octane 2026 season, bringing world-class dramatic literature to Harare with a compelling staged reading of Lynn Nottage’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece, Sweat. The performance took place this past Friday at the Friendship Bench Hub.
Under the direction of Charlene Mangweni-Furusa, the production featured a dynamic ensemble of veteran Almasi collaborators and emerging talent, including Bliss Tanatswa, Shane Mahobele, Michael Kudakwashe, Daniel Nxumalo, Deborah Nyasha Kabongo, Tinevimbo David Chimbetete, Chido Chigariro, Nyaradzo F. Nhongonhema, Donne Jone, and Tsungirirai Chenjerayi.
This production highlights Almasi’s rigorous dedication to dramatic literacy and the professional development of African artists. The process began with a two-day intensive dramaturgical workshop led by Almasi programs director Gideon Jeph Wabvuta, which invited a cohort of local directors and playwrights to analyse the play’s structure before moving into formal rehearsals.
Reflecting on the production, director Charlene Mangweni-Furusa noted.
"SWEAT takes us through a cross-section of society—from the optimistic outlook of 'sweating' hard enough to one day realize one's dream, to being at the end of the line with no prospects in sight. Everyone is at the mercy of a system that does not recognize them. This is a play I think we can all see a bit of ourselves in."
Gideon Jeph Wabvuta emphasized the vital role of these performances.
"Staged readings are the mainstay of Almasi’s development agenda. They enable us to further the dramatic literacy of Zimbabwean artists while sharing rich, beautiful dramatic works with the public. It is a privilege to continue our connection with Lynn Nottage... Sweat is a timely piece, devastating in its exploration of human fragility, yet it serves as a window through which we can find the opportunity to connect over tumultuous times."
Sweat marks the third major initiative for Almasi in 2026, following the successful second edition of the Almasi Writer’s Retreat in March and a February staged reading of Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, directed by Leonard Matsa.
Sweat (2017 Pulitzer Prize for Drama) offers a gritty, empathetic examination of the deindustrialisation of America. Set in Reading, Pennsylvania, the play serves as a profound study on how the loss of economic stability can fray social and racial bonds.
The momentum continues with a Directing and Stage Management Workshop led by visiting US artist Adam Immerwahr, running from April 20 to May 2.
Co-founded and led by Executive Artistic Director Danai Gurira, Almasi Collaborative Arts is a Harare-based organization dedicated to building the African arts sector. By providing world-class education and professional opportunities, Almasi empowers African creatives to share their narratives on the global stage.