The Rain That Washes at Leicester Square Theatre

This show finished on: 6 October 2012

Tickets: £12 (£10 conc)

Venue: Leicester Square Theatre, 6 Leicester Place, WC2H 7BX

One man’s epic journey growing up through Zimbabwe’s turbulent times.

First performed in the intimate Studio Theatre at Chickenshed in October 2011, The Rain That Washes surprised and moved audiences and is now set for a new run in 2012.

Instantly plunged into a young man's compelling story of growing up in turbulent Zimbabwe, we live and breathe his extraordinary and dramatic journey from innocence to escape, finally returning to his homeland to witness the greatest betrayal of all...

Inspired by a series of interviews between Zimbabwean Christopher Maphosa and writer, Dave Carey, who first met at Chickenshed more than 12 years ago, The Rain That Washes is a true story that is poignant, political and, most of all, personal. This beautifully realised one-man show effortlessly shifts between different times, places and characters and builds to an unforgettable climax.

About the title

The title The Rain That Washes is taken from the Shona phase, Gukurahundi, which translates to mean "the early rain which washes away the chaff before the spring rains." Gukurahundi was the name given to the suppression by Zimbabwe's 5th Brigade in the predominantly Ndebele regions of Zimbabwe. The 5th Brigade were Robert Mugabe's personal militia known for their brutality and terror.

Video Trailer

Click on 'View Video' above to watch short excerpts from the production.

Production Images

Click on 'View Image Gallery' above to see production images.

Reviews

"It takes a very special talent to keep you agog to know how his journey will end, but thats what Ashley Maynard does as he plays the many people encountered in the journey of a humble man trying to flee ravaged Zimbabwe. Ashley's performance is a tour de force. I was spellbound." Dame Janet Suzman

‘Throughout the performance, Maynard’s acting is superb. He narrates the story with a passionate intensity and honesty which do justice to the truth of the experiences he relays.'
A Younger Theatre - read full review

'An extraordinary tour-de-force.'
4* One Stop Arts - read full review

‘moving and beautifully performed play.’
Broadway World - read full review

'excellent pacing, a phenomenally skilled performer and some serious ingenuity.'
The London Aisle - read full review

Audience reactions

'It is one of the best one man shows I have seen. Brilliant acting, props, lighting and add-ons. Strongest political drama I have seen, and I've seen a few.'

'The most incredible story told in an exceptional way - it was totally absorbing.'