Decide Nhendo
Masvingo City’s Charles Austin Theatre management is appealing for assistance towards the renovation and development of the theater, recognizing the urgent need for refurbishments due to its aging infrastructure.
Emmanuel Simon Sakala, the Public Relations Officer for Charles Austin Theatre, highlighted their efforts to address the deteriorating conditions.
“When we came last year, things were not in good shape. We started working on toilets and sinks, successfully resolving plumbing issues and ensuring their proper functionality. Security guards were also employed to control movements within the theater,” said Sakala.
Despite the progress, Sakala acknowledged the challenges faced by the committee in their renovation efforts. He called upon the community, business people, and arts enthusiasts to contribute to the restoration of the theater, emphasizing the ongoing need for assistance.
“I appeal to the community, business people, and arts lovers to assist in any form they are capable because we are trying our best but there is a serious shortage of funds to cover all areas that need attention as there is still a long way to go,” Sakala stated.
Committee Chairperson Fredrick Matavikwa echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in refurbishing the theater.
“I encourage the stakeholders and Masvingo community to lend a hand in the restoration of Charles Austin Theatre, as it is helpful to all community people, covering children up to adult people in the community,” Matavikwa said.
Matavikwa emphasized that the theater serves as a valuable platform for nurturing local talent, catering to individuals of all ages.
“People performing arts can gain experience from the theater when they practice, and art is from natural talent, which does not require school but only identification as the main sole purpose at Charles Austin,” he added.
Sakala further highlighted the theater’s history of hosting international artists but expressed concerns about its current state, making it less probable to accommodate performances.
He emphasized the pressing need for renovation in various areas, including seating, carpets, stage changing rooms, electrical safety measures, chair upholstery, and more.
