STAGE

A satire titled “Workshop Negative,” focusing on corruption among Zimbabwean political leaders and staged by a karate club-turned-drama group, has become a surprise hit in the African nation, despite stiff governmental opposition. Written by Cont Mhlanga, “Workshop Negative” depicts the relationship between two adversaries in Zimbabwe’s seven-year war for independence--one white and one black--who are exploited by their black employer, who professes to be communist but is a blatant capitalist. The play has angered David Karimanzira, the minister of youth, sport and culture, who said it denigrated socialism and portrayed the country’s political leaders as corrupt. As a result, the government will not license the play for performances abroad.