Harare will soon play host to one of Africa’s most celebrated musicals, as Ipi Ntombi takes to the Reps Theatre stage for just three performances on Friday, 15 August at 7:00pm, and Saturday, 16 August at 2:30pm and 7:00pm.

Fresh from a sold-out season at Bulawayo Theatre earlier this year, the production is a collaboration between the Bulawayo Theatre Club and The Repertory Players. It tells the moving story of a young Black man who leaves his rural home and new wife to work in the mines, exploring themes of love, separation, sacrifice, and resilience.

Based on the groundbreaking 1974 South African musical, this Zimbabwean staging is brought to life with the music of Miriam Makeba, Johnny Clegg, Margaret Singana and other African music legends.

Audiences can expect a high-energy, emotionally charged performance, led by the NAMA Award-winning Khaya Arts dance group. The show is directed by Sandy Bradnick, with music direction by Vusi Ndebele and choreography by Future Dube.

“This is more than a musical—it’s a celebration of African spirit, identity and endurance,” said organisers. “It’s a theatrical treasure that speaks to our shared history and continues to resonate with audiences today.”

The production also highlights the enduring legacy of its two presenting institutions. The Bulawayo Theatre Club, founded in 1937, is based at the country’s oldest operational theatre, which has been a cornerstone of Matabeleland’s arts scene for over a century. Meanwhile, The Repertory Players, established in 1931, have staged more than 800 productions at Reps Theatre in Belgravia, Harare, cementing their place in Zimbabwe’s performing arts history.

With only three performances scheduled, organisers are urging theatre lovers to secure their seats early for what promises to be one of Harare’s cultural highlights of the year. More details at www.thespotlight.co.zw