2019 has been a tough year for many Zimbabweans as the economic meltdown made it difficult for people to plan things and with inflation skyrocketing, standards of living became deplorable.
However, in the midst of the challenges, with many events being cancelled, the team at Reps Theatre has decided to stage their annual pantomime despite having to fight the harsh economic climate.
‘Santa the Panto’ is this year’s production and it is loaded with a lot of humorous scenes that will work as the perfect stress remedy for locals who have had to endure a year which Finance Minister, Mthuli Ncube has deemed to be a year of bad luck.
“It has always been a Reps tradition to produce a pantomime every year during the Christmas holiday season,” said production director, Mario Ciampi.
“For this year’s panto, I conceived and wrote an original fairy-tale story and script. By using characters, like Santa Claus and Frosty the Snowman, which are well known by children and adults all over the world and are symbols of Christmas joy and happiness, it is hoped to that we would connect better with all members of our very varied audience, and entertain them.”
One other factor that has enabled this play to be a reality besides the sheer determination by Ciampi and team is the support from the corporate world. Theatre rarely gets support from the business sector but Reps team knows how to lure them.
“We have secured the support and sponsorship of several local businesses, who are essential to enable us to produce shows and ensure the survival of our unique theatre. This year’s show sponsors were; Bratz Basement, Crystal Candy, Driptech, Eaton & Youngs, Eco Homes, Health International, Kaylite Kings, Nola Creations, Pentact Pension Consultants, Printworks and Spar Zimbabwe.
“These sponsors have not only provided much-needed financing, but also many of the materials required to construct our set pieces, with Spar providing Christmas hampers and Crystal Candy providing sweets for all the children. Bratz Basement is also providing prizes for a nightly best-dressed children competition,” revealed Ciampi.
The production which has a cast and crew of 51 started showing on December 5 and will run till the 21st.
