Breakfast with Mugabe: A theatrical exploration of power, trauma, and legacy

Veteran actor Themba Ndaba plays the lead in "Breakfast with Mugabe" at The Market Theatre. Picture: Ngoma.

Robert Mugabe, the former President of Zimbabwe, is perhaps one of the most polarising political figures of recent African history. His journey from an esteemed independence leader to a controversial tyrant is a story interwoven with policy, power struggles, and persistent criticism. Mugabe's legacy remains a topic of vigorous debate, especially when scrutinised through the lens of Western perspectives that often found him more enigmatic than amenable.

Inspired by accounts that Mugabe once privately consulted a white psychiatrist, Breakfast with Mugabe is a fictionalised narrative that weaves a compelling dialogue between the fictional Dr Andrew Peric and the formidable Mugabe. This striking production marks a significant moment for multitalented director Calvin Ratladi, the 2025 Standard Young Artists Award winner for Theatre, as he steps into new creative realms with this reimagining of the life of one of Africa’s most controversial leaders.

Inspired by the acclaimed script of British playwright Fraser Grace, Ratladi’s adaptation offers audiences an intimate glimpse into the internal struggles of the late Zimbabwean leader. Rather than presenting him solely as the dictatorial figure often portrayed in political analyses, this production delves deeper, revealing Mugabe as a complex individual haunted by memories, grief, and the ghosts of his deceased comrades. Haunted by a particularly malevolent spirit, Mugabe demonstrates high levels of paranoia, suffering from the consequences of his own past actions.

The cast of "Breakfast with Mugabe" (from left to right): Farai Chigudu, Craig Jackson, Gontse Ntshegang, and Themba Ndaba. Picture: Ngoma

The narrative, charged with spiritual undertones and personal conflict, opens with Mugabe and his bodyguard, portrayed by Farai Chigudu, engaging in a ritualistic cleansing of the president's residence—a stark indicator that this play will delve into areas rarely explored on stage. As the story unfolds, we find Dr Peric, a white psychiatrist from Harare hospital, stepping into the tension-fuelled setting, accompanied by the ominous atmosphere layered with political complexity. Awaiting the president in the lounge, he serves as both a confidant and observer to the unfolding drama that highlights the intricate dynamics of power and personal ambition surrounding Mugabe's rule.

The narrative takes a poignant turn when Grace Mugabe, magnificently portrayed by veteran actress Gontse Ntshegang, enters the fray. Known for her ambitious ascent from a humble secretary to the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Grace’s character emerges as a blend of strength and vulnerability. She attempts to persuade Dr Peric, played by another veteran actor Craig Jacskson, to convince her husband to allow her and their children to escape the confines of the presidential palace, illustrating a deeply personal plea for freedom amidst the strains of entrapment.

Ntshegang pulls off a magnificent portrayal of a vain First Lady who lives in superb oblivion of the trappings of power. Boastful and obnoxious, Ntshegang has the accent and the airs that have come to define the character of Grace Mugabe we have all witnessed throughout Mugabe’s last days in power. This remarkable performance resonates with audiences not only for its portrayal of a historical figure but also for its exploration of themes such as power, freedom, and identity—elements that remain poignantly relevant in contemporary society.

Gontse Ntshegang protrays the flamboyant former First Lady, Grace Mugabe. Picture: Ngoma

Mugabe then steps into his lounge and engages in a rather unconventional power assertion over Dr Peric in a surreal moment that highlights the intricate dance of power and perception. The scene begins innocuously enough but soon morphs into an unexpected show of authority as Mugabe insists on a change in Dr Peric’s appearance—a removal of his tie, which Mugabe deemed unsuitable. The request comes wrapped in the guise of maintaining standards, which Mugabe rigidly enforced upon all his employees.

But it wasn't just about fashion or acceptable appearances; it was a demonstration of control, a subtle yet undeniable assertion of hierarchy. And for Dr Peric, this bureaucratic imposition is not merely an issue of fabric and knot as he soon finds himself at an impasse, contemplating the implications of concessions made to a man whose reign had been marked by an iron grip over a nation. 

This incident, seemingly mundane on the surface, unveiled the complexities of a doctor-patient relationship fraught with tension. One man embodies authority in a societal context, while the other stands firm in his professional standing, creating a riveting narrative underpinned by dominance, mistrust, and reluctant respect. The clash in their personalities—the soft-spoken commitment of the doctor juxtaposed against the brash, sometimes erratic authority of Mugabe—served to highlight the difficulties inherent in their relationship. As the two men traverse the delicate and often hostile landscape of their interaction, a larger commentary on power dynamics unfurl. This encounter in a lounge transcends the ordinary.

Themba Ndaba and Craig Jackson portray Robert Mugabe and Dr Andrew Peric in "Breakfast with Mugabe". Picture: Ngoma 

It is a microcosm of broader societal conflicts where individual merit often battles larger forces of power and control. As these two men face off, the implications of their interaction echoes beyond the four walls around them, illuminating the complexities of authority and autonomy, and perhaps, offering a window into understanding the human condition under the shadow of unyielding leadership.

Despite Dr Peric occupying a higher position within the confines of the lounge, Mugabe's overall societal influence cast a long shadow, serving as a constant reminder of the stakes involved in their relationship. However, this charged atmosphere does not diminish their attempts to maintain decorum and they continue with their consultations for weeks until Mugabe decides he’s had enough. 

Ndaba must be applauded for the great effort he puts in his portrayal of such a towering figure. Under the careful guidance and directorship of Ratladi and his own research, Ndaba nails the character of Mugabe to the tee. His intonation, facial expressions, and demeanor embodies that of Mugabe the Statesman in his ripe years suffering from probably Alzheimer disease.

Despite the dialogue and monologues being heavy on text, Ndaba and Jackson’s chemistry carries the production to a sweet and easily-to-follow narrative about family, legacy, history, struggle, politics and power. Jackson plays the best supporting role in the play, being present in almost all the scenes and is a vital cog in unravelling the man that is Mugabe. Their interactions unfold a complex tapestry of themes encompassing grief, healing, faith, nationalism, and legacy.

Andrew Jackson and Farai Chigudu go toe-to-toe as Dr Andrew Peric and Mugabe's bodyguard in "Breakfast with Mugabe". Picture: Ngoma

Towards the end of the play, it takes a nasty turn as Dr Peric is informed that his services are no longer required, and that the farms of the constituency of war veterans he was representing and defending have been seized, and that his wife had been unfortunately killed in the process. One never seen fight scenes very often on stage, but Chigudu and Jackson put in a spectacular showing to sell this scene as realistically as possible, ending with Dr Peric being kicked like a dog on the floor and Mugabe’s bodyguard and enforcer.

This scene, the climax of the production, epitomises the brutality with which Mugabe’s land reform programme was implemented to redistribute land from white farmers to the black majority. Chaotic and often violent, the programme resulted in the collapse of commercial agriculture and an economic downturn that left Zimbabwe grappling with hyperinflation, unemployment, and food shortages — challenges that continue to besiege the nation today.

Even as the narrative crescendos into chaos, the finality of Mugabe’s fiery political rally speech draws the audience back to his rhetorical prowess, chastising the Western powers who viewed his regime as one characterised by defiance and enigma. This energy-laden address resonates deeply with audiences, illustrating Mugabe’s deep-seated desire to portray himself as an unwavering figure against Western criticism. The crowd’s roaring support serves as a reminder of the complexities that surround leadership, legacy, and the human thirst for power. It's a poignant monologue, one that can rival Mark Antony's "Friends, Romans, countrymen..." eulogy at Julius Caesar's funeral.

Veteran actor Themba Ndaba plays the lead in "Breakfast with Mugabe" at The Market Theatre. Picture: Ngoma.

Through this production, the complexities of Mugabe's reign are brought to life, showcasing not just the political struggles but also the personal stories that weave a rich tapestry of culture and history. The play is not merely a retelling of history; instead, it broaches a deeper inquiry into what lies beneath the surface of political power and personal turmoil, and what one losses when they gain power. The narrative juxtaposes Mugabe's nationalist fervour with his personal struggles, reflecting a leader torn between his iconic status and the often devastating impact of his policies.

Themes of grief emerge as Mugabe grapples with loss—not only of personal relationships but also the country’s sense of unity and purpose. The interplay between healing and faith serves to highlight Mugabe's internal conflicts, revealing how personal beliefs can shape national identity and governance. The play prompts its audience to reflect on complex realities that resonate far beyond Zimbabwe. It speaks to a global experience of leadership, where the burden of legacy is often accompanied by isolation and despair. In this context, Mugabe’s journey is portrayed not just as a political saga, but as a profound human story, rich with emotion and fraught with contradiction.

This theatrical piece invites both local and international audiences to engage with and reconsider Mugabe's legacy while simultaneously recognising the universal challenges faced by leaders on the global stage. It challenges viewers to confront their own perceptions of nationalism and healing through a deeply personal lens, making it not only a play about a political figure but also a mirror reflecting our collective societal issues.

Breakfast with Mugabe is currently showing at the Mannie Manim Theatre at The Market Theatre in Johannesburg until 10 August. Tickets sell from R140 to R220 each.