Beverly Bizeki
Masvingo City Council has resolved to dissolve the Charles Austin theatre committee following allegations that there is lack of activity at the theatre since the election of committee.
The development was revealed in the Health and housing Committee minutes dated May 4, 2023 that the committee had been deemed incompetent and the need for a new committee at the theatre.
“It was reported that there was no activity going on at the Charles Austin Theatre ever since the new committee was elected into office,” read part of the statement.
The committee has been accused of pushing their political aspirations at the theatre at the expense of theatre of issues.
“It was noted that the most of the office bearers seem to have had an interest in launching their political careers than theatre issues. Some of the members have chosen to contest as councilors while some have already resigned citing lack of activity,” reads the statement.
It has also been reported the Ministry of Youth, arts, Sports, and culture together with the National Arts Council also expressed concern over lack of activities and council has resolved to dissolve the committee at the at the expiry of their term of office.
“The committee be dissolved at the expiry of their term of office end of May 2023 and an interim committee be appointed.
“The committee will be made up of people with arts and culture background and are active participants in the industry,” reads the statement.
Council has also proposed to ensure the appointment be done in consultation with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Arts and National Arts Council.
