‘Nkhotakota, Salima has low standards of stage plays’

The National Theatre Association of Malawi (Ntam) chapter in the Central Region of the country has named Nkhotakota and Salima districts as the worst hit by lowering standards of stage plays.

The chapter’s spokesperson Susan Kamkosi-Banda said regional outreach meetings in all districts, except Lilongwe, had shown that performing artists beyond urban settings are lagging behind.

To reverse the disparities, she called on performing arts experts, actors and organisations to take part in entrenching drama in remote areas.

“There is a big gap in the quality of acting between actors in urban and rural centres. Rural actors are not exposed to regular drama activities. They are not reached by people with the knowledge either,” said Banda when asked about progress of Ntam districts drama festivals.

She wondered why government and non-governmental organisations, which use drama to disseminate vital messages, are not taking part in uplifting the sidelined majorities.

“It seems everyone appreciates that these actors inform, entertain and educate the public. Why don’t they do something to develop in their careers?” wondered Banda.

The final for Lilongwe is slated for December, with  regional finals on January 26.