We enter a theatre auditorium expecting great performances, amazing sets, stunning lights, features that make every theatre experience special. This particular one had all that and something entirely different.
Showcased at the Goethe-Institut on Friday 24th March 2023, ROOTS, a one hander performance produced by Maabara Initiative, written, directed and starring Wanjiku Mwawuganga was a trip down her family tree in historical context which brought us up close and personal with Mwawuganga’s experience with motherhood in connection to her Mother’s (Maitū) and her Grandmother’s (Cūcū) approach to it back in the day.
Mwawuganga also shared the challenges, flaws and lessons learnt during her post partum period.
When I said ‘something entirely different’,this is what I meant; On arrival, photos filled with beautiful moments of Mwawuganga’s life as well as her family’s were handed out to the audience and during the show, some of them were projected and Mwawuganga had a one on one interaction with a few members of the audience describing the moments in the photos.
The props and set symbolized different aspects and people throughout the piece in an undeniably elaborate way, from shukas worn by Mwawuganga symbolizing Maitū and Cūcū, to stunning lights that brought upon different moods in the piece.
I for one feel privileged to have watched the piece and also grateful to Mwawuganga for not only showcasing her personal and insightful journey but also bringing us on board.
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