Circus Zambia in association with Wake The Beast makes its UK debut at Underbelly George Square with Afronauts. This also marks the first time a Zambian company has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Written and directed by Gift Chansa and Adam McGuigan, this cosmic clash of circus, theatre, music and dance tells Zambia’s true story of hope, courage, and the kind of audacity that can take you all the way to the moon… or at least make you believe you could.
It’s 1964. In the newly independent Zambia, a charismatic science teacher calls for everyone’s attention. Zambia will train the first African crew to travel to the moon. Adventurous, brave, and powerful, Afronauts encourages us to question the true meaning of freedom and global equality.
Through aerial feats, impressive acrobatics, dance and a good dose of humour, these undoubtedly skilled performers tell this little-known story. This could be described as a history lesson with a difference. Actually, I’m sure I’d have learnt considerably more in my school history lessons if they were all performed like this!
What shines straight away is the heart and passion the performers have. Passion for their country, culture, and for telling us this valuable piece of their history. Loud and proud but with some quieter, atmospheric moments sprinkled throughout, we’re engaged and involved with a bit of fun audience participation too.
The use of historical video footage projected onto the back screen at various points throughout the show reminds us that this is a true story, adding depth to the performance. Although there were many children in our audience, with the historical element this is a show suitable for all ages. There’s also the reminder that we can all benefit from: never be afraid to dream.
With heart and passion, Afronauts tells the incredible story of a dream of freedom, independence, and the boundless potential that space represents.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
