You’ll settle into an open-air theatre in Victoria Falls as dusk falls, swept up by Simunye’s blend of puppetry, music, and dance. Watch Bomani and Ndlovu’s journey unfold right in front of you—then step onstage for photos and quick chats with the local cast. Expect laughter, maybe a goosebump or two, and that strange warmth you only get from live performance under African skies.
We were still laughing about my attempt at “ngiyabonga” when we found our seats—right up front, somehow. The open-air theatre in the middle of Victoria Falls felt alive even before the show started; you could hear distant drums and smell something earthy, maybe rain on dust or just the grass underfoot. Our guide from the lodge waved at someone backstage (everyone seems to know each other here), then told us to grab a drink before it all kicked off.
I didn’t expect to get so caught up in Bomani’s story. There’s this moment—he’s lost, wandering, and then Ndlovu appears (the elephant puppet is huge but gentle, you almost forget it’s not real). The actors moved like they’d been doing this together for years. The music was loud enough to feel through your seat, but soft when it needed to be. I kept catching myself watching people in the crowd as much as the stage—some locals mouthing along with songs, little kids copying dance moves. It made me wish I could move like that.
Afterwards, everyone just sort of drifted onto the stage for photos with the cast. I tried asking one of the dancers about her costume—she grinned and said it was “a secret,” then showed me how heavy her beadwork was anyway. There was no rush; people lingered, swapping stories or just standing around listening to the last notes fade out into night air. I still think about that feeling—like we’d all shared something bigger than just a show.
The show lasts 1 hour.
The performance begins at 8pm; guests are encouraged to arrive at least 20 minutes early.
Yes, after the show guests are invited on stage for photos with the cast for about 20-30 minutes.
Yes, infants and small children are welcome; strollers and prams are allowed.
The venue is centrally located in Victoria Falls town with taxis available nearby.
You can purchase drinks before entering; drinks can be taken into the theatre.
Yes, wheelchair access is available throughout the venue.
Service animals are allowed inside.
Your evening includes entry tickets to Simunye at Victoria Falls Theatre Company—a central venue that’s wheelchair accessible—with time before curtain-up to buy drinks and enjoy them during the show. Afterward you’re invited onstage for photos with local performers before heading out into town again whenever you’re ready.
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