On Saturday, artist and choreographer nora chipaumire will bring her radio opera NEHANDA to life with a performance.

NEHANDA is the central work in chipaumire’s exhibition afternow. The protagonist of the opera, Nehanda, is a spirit that only inhabits women and is venerated by the Shona people native to Zimbabwe and Central Mozambique. In the late 19th century, Nehanda’s medium was Charwe Nyakasikana, a revolutionary leader who orchestrated the 1889 revolts against Cecil John Rhodes and the British colonizers in Zimbabwe. Upon capture, she was tried for murder, convicted, and executed. The opera examines the historical crimes committed by the British in the illegally occupied territory then named Southern Rhodesia.

The format of the radio opera had transcended the temporary obsolescence of live events during lockdown. Now, as performers and audience can come together again safely, chipaumire will perform the first episode, which follows a “dare,” a traditional court held by the king of the Shona. Set in the savannah, this segment recalls the witnesses’ arguments and testimonials in defence of Nehanda Charwe Nyakasikana.

The performance will last ca. 60 min. Please register in advance through the form below. Registration on-site is possible, capacity permitting. Admission is free. On the 18th, please bring one of the following: proof of vaccination, a negative Covid test from the past 24 hours, or proof of recovery from Covid. Wearing an FFP2 mask is mandatory inside the venue.