City of Masvingo hosts primary schools drama festival to inspire positive choices among learners

The City of Masvingo in partnership with Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Charles Austin Theatre, and Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture , through the Department of Housing and Social Services under the Arts and Theatre Development programme, is currently hosting the primary schools drama festival, an initiative aimed at empowering young learners to express themselves creatively while addressing important life issues.

Running under the theme “Our Choices, Our Future,” the festival seeks to encourage pupils to make informed and responsible decisions that positively shape their lives and communities.

Through performing arts, the event provides a vibrant platform where children can communicate ideas, explore social issues, and showcase their creativity.

Nine primary schools from across the city are participating in this year’s edition of the festival. These include Runyararo Primary School, Shakashe Primary School, Vurombo Primary School, Francis Aphiri Primary School, Dikwindi Primary School, Don Bosco Primary School, Kyle Preparatory School, Farmark Primary School, and Helen McGhie Primary School.

Each participating school is presenting a drama performance lasting a maximum of 15 minutes, tackling themes that reflect the importance of making responsible choices in everyday life.

The drama festival was conceptualized as part of ongoing efforts by council to promote youth development, arts education, and community engagement among primary school learners.

By using drama as a powerful educational tool, the programme aims to address contemporary social challenges in a way that is engaging and relatable for young audiences.

Beyond entertainment, the festival plays a critical role in helping pupils develop essential life skills such as confidence, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. It also nurtures talent in the performing arts while promoting cultural appreciation and creativity among young learners.

Over the years, the primary schools drama festival has grown into an important annual event on the city’s calendar, strengthening partnerships between schools, council, and the wider community.

Through this festival, young learners are not only given a stage to perform but also an opportunity to reflect on how their choices today can shape a better future for themselves and their communities.