Breakfast with Mugabe

“Breakfast with Mugabe” is a National Arts Festival, The Market Theatre and Festival Enterprise Catalyst (FEC) co-production, in association with the Calvin Ratladi Foundation. This gripping psychological thriller is directed by Calvin Ratladi, 2025 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre.

It is set in the final years of Robert Mugabe’s rule in Zimbabwe. Inspired by real events, Fraser Grace’s award-winning play explores the troubled mind of the once-revered leader as he battles inner demons and political paranoia. Haunted by a malevolent spirit, Mugabe reluctantly seeks the help of a white psychiatrist, leading to a tense and dangerous power struggle. Following its South African premiere at the National Arts Festival, this riveting production comes to The Market Theatre, delving into themes of power, fear, and the ghosts of history. Directed by Calvin Ratladi, with a brilliant cast and searing dialogue, “Breakfast with Mugabe” offers a chilling glimpse into the psyche of a man clinging to control. Don’t miss this compelling drama that resonates far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.

The Festival Enterprise Catalyst (FEC) project is a joint initiative by the National Arts Festival, Nasionale Afrikaanse Teater-inisiatief (NATi), Concerts SA, SAMRO, Woordfees, Aardklop, Suidoosterfees, KKNK and the Tribuo Fund with support from the Jobs Fund and contributing funding from Standard Bank South Africa.