African Feminist Theatre

Our African Feminist Theatre group works with women with mental health conditions, supporting them to use performance as a way to creatively express themselves. The program aims to empower vulnerable women with mental ill health, who are often stigmatised and marginalised within Zimbabwean society.  We create theatre which explores the issues affecting their lives, such as gender based violence, stigma and discrimination. Using drama in this way is a form of therapy, where intentional use of play and theatre helps to develop insight into new problems and strategies for dealing with current issues. In addition to these therapeutic benefits, the group’s performances also help to raise awareness about mental health and start important discussions in their local communities. 

The group meets regularly at the PHOEBE centre, where the sessions are led by local performer, Patrick Tembo and other Harare-based artists. In the past we have worked with Savana Trust, a theatre organisation which uses indigenous forms of performing arts to impact social development and community participation among marginalised groups in Zimbabwe. We have also worked with Music Crossroads, which supports the development of music education for youth empowerment.