Zimbabwe: Old Mutual offers unwavering support to arts and culture sector
By Tarisai Maringire – Old Mutual has partnered Alliance Francaise to develop a state of the art multi -purpose theatre at the Alliance Francaise offices in Harare.
The multi-purpose theatre, renamed Old Mutual Theatre Alliance Francaise is set to be the first fully equipped venue in Harare and was renovated at a cost of $75000.
Old Mutual Group Chief Executive Officer, Jonas Mushosho said Investing in the renovation of the theatre was in line with old Mutual philosophy of fostering smart partnerships with like-minded organizations towards the development of Zimbabwe.
“Alliance Francaise is a prominent arts and culture and educational organization in Zimbabwe that supports and organizes various programs that enable growth and development in the sector.
“It is the impact of Alliance Francaise social outreach that prompted Old Mutual to sponsor the renovation of this theatre,” he said.
He added that they chose to sponsor the arts industry because it acts as a platform for citizens to interact.
“The industry is both informative and entertaining often provides the much needed relief as we go on with normal course of business,” he said.
The biggest news for many struggling artists is that the Old Mutual Theatre Alliance Francaise will be available for free to members of the arts, cultural and educational community in Zimbabwe.
Alliance Francaise Executive Director, Charles Houdart said the facility is also going to be the hub and centre for marketing upcoming artists.
“Upcoming artists will get free equipment for their shows and they can still charge their audience and pocket 100% of the gate takings.
“Our aim is to ensure that artists, especially budding artists start making a living out of this industry. They can rehearse and use state of the art equipment to their advantage for free,” said Houdart.
Every year Alliance Francaise organise numerous activities that includes plays, concerts ,exhibitions and fairs that has contributed to the growth of arts and culture in Zimbabwe.
In their continuous support of the Arts Old Mutual are set to announce a bigger package for the Harare International Festival of the arts to be held later this month.
