Did you know that America and the USSR were not the only countries to be part of the space race to the moon? Would you be shocked if I were to tell you that Zambia was also a contender through their Zambia Space Academy? Under the productions of Circus Zambia and Wake the Beast, Afronauts tells the true tale of former anti-colonial fighter, Mr Edward Makuka Nkoloso, and his trainee “Afronauts”, with their ambitious mission to beat the world’s superpowers and win the global race to the moon.
The company perfectly combines both circus acrobatics and theatrical performances to represent this heartwarming, hopeful narrative. In the audience, you could hear everyone expressing their amazement at the skills shown on stage, as my own mouth was agape for all of the impressive acrobatic tricks. Their circus skills were truly ones to be captivated by, with the cast flipping and swinging each other around the Underbelly stage. As one performer stood on another performer who stood on another performer, on the other end of the stage, there would be a performer completing the most beautiful dance trapeze you might ever see in your life.
Not only were these stunts riveting, but the theatrical acting completed by the cast held a perfect balance between humour and moving drama. From the hilariously characterised cats taking over the stage, to the individuality between each Afronaut themselves, the immersive storytelling kept the crowd of all ages fully enthralled into the true historical tale.
It was powerful to see such a strong female lead within their narrative, starring the true character of Zambia’s first female Afronaut: 17-year-old Matha Mwamba. Accompanied by two randomly selected cats, and a Christian missionary, they epitomise the true meaning of “I believe!”, showing how ambition and determination can realise your dreams into reality.
While the self-acclaimed Afronauts never did end up reaching the moon, the tale is one to tell the masses to inspire those that there is no dream too big, with no dreamer too small.
Afronauts is running until 31st August at Udderbelly at Underbelly, George Square.
Buy tickets here.
Photo Via Circus Zambia and Wake The Beast
