The ZimTainment

Following a highly successful opening run that drew packed audiences and glowing reviews, the festive musical “In Search of the King” returns to the Celebration Centre this weekend for its second showing on 5, 6 and 7 December 2025.

The Zimbabwean-created production, which blends original music, rich storytelling, and striking stage design, has been widely praised for its artistry and emotional depth. 

Audiences from the first weekend have taken to social platforms describing the musical as “world-class,” “breathtaking,” and “a landmark moment for Zimbabwean theatre.”

Producers say many who attended last week’s debut have already booked tickets for a second showing a testament to the impact the musical has made in its opening days.

“We have been humbled by the feedback,” said Event Promoter Lyncolin Kapswara of Events by GEC.

“People are returning because they want to relive the experience with family and friends. That tells us the story and the performances have resonated deeply.”

“We have introduced the $60 for 5 tickets “Festive Bundle” perfect for families, friends, colleagues, churches, schools, or any group wanting to share this experience together,” added Event Promoter Lyncolin Kapswara.

Featuring some of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated voices including Pastor Bonnie Deuschle, Janet Manyowa, Arthur Evans, Walter Tapfumaneyi, and a full ensemble of musicians and choir members the 3,000-seat auditorium has transformed into a festive stage showcasing one of the largest local productions staged in recent years.

Kapswara said the creative team is looking forward to welcoming new audiences as the show enters its second and final weekend.

“This production was created to be shared widely, and we are glad Zimbabwe is embracing it the way it has. If you missed the first run, this is your chance. And if you watched it already, we are ready to welcome you back.”

Show Dates:

Friday 5 December

Saturday 6 December

Sunday 7 December

Venue: Celebration Centre

Time: Doors open 6PM, Show starts 7PM 

A new homegrown musical is set to take centre stage in Harare, and its creators believe it could redefine what large-scale theatre looks like in Zimbabwe. 

“In Search of the King”, an original festive production developed by a collective of Zimbabwean composers, directors, and performers, will run for six nights at Celebration Centre.

The first run takes place this weekend on Friday the 28th, Saturday the 29th, and Sunday the 30th, with the final shows scheduled for the following weekend.

The show blends music, narrative, and ambitious stagecraft in a 3,000-seat auditorium, positioning it among the largest productions staged in the country in recent years. 

The creative team includes artists who have built careers both locally and internationally, underscoring the production’s scope and artistic ambition.

The cast features some of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable voices and personalities. 

Gospel icon Pastor Bonnie Deuschle and award-winning gospel singer Janet Manyowa headline the musical, joined by broadcaster Arthur Evans, actor Walter Tapfumaneyi, and a wide ensemble of professional musicians and choir members.

Event Promoter Lyncolin Kapswara of Events by GEC said the goal is to create a holiday experience that feels both familiar and elevated. 

“We wanted to craft a production that families can enjoy together, something warm and full of meaning, but also something that shows how far Zimbabwean theatre has come,” he said.

He added that the team approached the project with cinematic scale and local heart. 

“Every element from the music to the set design has been created here at home. Audiences will feel the excellence we are capable of when we collaborate at this level.”

With a blend of seasoned performers, an original score composed by Daniel Deuschle, and a story designed to resonate across generations, In Search of the King is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cultural events of the festive season. 

Organizers expect demand for the six shows to be high, noting that the production’s mix of family-friendly themes and star power is likely to draw thousands to Celebration Centre.

Tickets for the show are ranging between $15 to $100 and are available at Booties Pharmacies

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