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Binti’s Journey

Adapted by Marcia Johnson from the novel, The Heaven Shop, by Deborah Ellis
Original direction by ahdri zhina mandiela

After losing her parents to AIDS, radio star Binti Phiri and her siblings discovers a new understanding of family and community in the village of her remarkable Grandmother and the many orphans in her care.

A stellar cast brings to life this anthem to hope and tribute to the courage and determination of youth in this Dora nominated production.

Click here to read what a teacher has to say about Binti’s Journey.

What People Are Saying

“They absolutely LOVED it! It dealt with a serious issue in a sensitive yet deep manner…the vocals and dance were wonderful..”
- Teacher, Milne Valley Middle School

“A powerful story that young people in our privileged world really should hear.”
- City Parent Magazine

“I was enthralled by the way Theatre Direct made my book come alive.”
- Deborah Ellis, author of The Heaven Shop

“Binti’s Journey is quite a remarkable play. If it were simply an engaging story about a young girl growing up in modern-day Malawi, it would be noteworthy. If it were simply an effective play for young people about HIV/AIDS, it would be exceptional. Binti’s Journey, however, is both…The play deserves the widest possible audience not just of schoolchildren but of adults, who have just as much to learn.”
- Christopher Hoile, EYE Weekly, 4 Stars

Creative Team

Director ahdri china mandiela
Set and Costume Design Melanie McNeill
Music and Movement Mxolisi Welcome Ngozi
Cast Allison Edwards-Crewe, Prince Amponsah, Ijeoma Emesowum, Saccha Dennis


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