Masvingo to host drama fest

MASVINGO’S Charles Austin Theatre will host the first edition of the Doug Hill High Schools Drama Festival from 1 to 2 August.

The festival is to honour 70 years of theatre by veteran Doug Hill, who was one of the pivotal figures of the development of theatre in Masvingo.

This year’s edition of the festival will include over 15 high schools from in and around Masvingo. In support of the festival, Nhimbe Trust will send over two heavy weight theatre giants from Bulawayo, Eveline High School and Gifford High School. From Chiredzi, Hippo Valley and from Masvingo the following schools will participate: Masvingo Christian College, Rufaro High School, Victoria High School, Zimuto High School, Shingirirayi College, Dewure High School, Madzivanyika High School, Berejena High School, Pamushana High School and others.

Dough Hill has been a source of inspiration to many youths in Masvingo who are involved with theatre work. Hill has an amazing theatre profile and his work with the youths has motivated the executive committee that runs the Charles Austin Theatre to honour his legacy.

“As the executive committee we felt compelled to honour his legacy through a drama festival that will work directly with high schools and grow to include pre-schools and primary schools,” read the press release.

Two professional adjudicators will preside over the competitions where 11 awards will be up for grabs. During the festival Doug Hill will be presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Charles Austin Theatre.

Veteran theatre practitioner Doug Hill formed the Fort Victoria Drama Circle, which went on to be called the Masvingo Drama Circle after independence. He was one of the pivotal figures in the advocating for the construction of the Charles Austin Theatre, and has been a key figure in play productions and administration there since.