Breakfast With Mugabe features Robert Mugabe in State House, confronting his past and seeking help from a psychiatrist. The play illustrates the complex history of Zimbabwe during intense political turmoil ahead of the 2001 elections. The character dynamics and psychological backdrop reflect on colonialism and leadership failures. Following its initial interest, productions have been staged in various prestigious venues, including the Royal Shakespeare Company. As Zimbabwe faces a new phase, the revival of this play in South Africa surprised many, highlighting its ongoing relevance to the country's narrative.
The play finds Mugabe holed-up in State House, pursued by the bitter spirit of a long-dead comrade. Denied help by traditional healers, the former liberation leader reluctantly turns to a white psychiatrist.
The late (and much missed) Antony Sher directed a Royal Shakespeare Company production that travelled from Stratford in 2005 via Soho theatre to the West End in 2006.
Interest in Breakfast With Mugabe was immediate, and persistent. An audio version flourished on BBC Radio 3 and the World Service; a second UK production followed.
Since then, Mugabe has died and Zimbabwe bumps along in comparative peace. So a new production - especially in South Africa - came as a surprise.
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