Malawi’s new drama group promises sanity in industry

Drama enthusiasts in Malawi have every reason to rejoice in the birth of a new group, especially when the newborn promises sanity in the once vibrant industry.

At a time more theatre outfits are closing shop, Nanzikambe Arts Cafe in Malawi’s commercial city Blantyre will play host to the launch of Mangolongondo Arts Ensemble on Saturday afternoon.

According to founder Steve Kango, Mangolongondo—a Tumbuka term for xylophone—will launch their theatrical journey with the play St Babton Scandal which fuses experienced actors and upstarts.

Kango said the cast includes Nanzikambe Arts’ elite actors Henry Ntalika, Mphundu Mjumira and Hussein Gopole who featured in adaptations of Ngugiwa Thiong’o’s I Will Marry When I Want and Jack Mapanje’s And Crocodiles Are Hungry at Night.

And Kango himself is a drama trainer. He mentored seven graduates of Marymount Girls Secondary School who feature in St Bapton Scandal. After a decade off-stage, he seems determined to venture into acting.

 “I have come back full-fledged to boost the country’s drama industry just like it was in the days of the late Du Chisiza,” said Kango on Monday.

A letter, signed by Censorship Board officer Daston Mpando, gives St Bapton Scandal a universal grade—meaning it is fit for all age groups.

Kango also said they will release Do as I Do between January and March next year.