Binti’s Journey

Adapted by Marcia Johnson from the novel, The Heaven Shop, by Deborah Ellis

Original Direction	ahdri zhina mandiela
Original Set and Costume Design	Melanie McNeill
Original Music and Movement	Mxolisi Welcome Ngozi, Anthony Guerre
Lighting Design by Patrick Joseph

Ages 11 and up

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.

Binti’s Journey was commissioned by Theatre Direct and premiered at the Tarragon Theatre’s Extra Space in 2008.

Presentations
Richmond Hill Centre for the Arts 2009
Manitoba Theatre for Young People, 2009
Theatre Direct’s Wychwood Theatre 2009, 2010
Young People’s Theatre, 2012

“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

“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

Watch the promo video

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