adminMathew Masinge
IT’S the 60th edition of the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival.
After hosting its first edition at Mai Musodzi Hall, the traditional dance fête has grown to be one of the country’s biggest stages in supporting local talent.
On May 27, the annual showcase gets underway in Bindura at Boss Netto Bar, where a representative from Mashonaland Central, will be crowned.
After that, the competition will head to all the country’s other provinces before culminating into a national event on August 5.
Running under the theme, “Bira Remadhanzi, 60 Years Sithokozisa Ngezomgido!”, the traditional dance competition will see different groups battling for the US$15 000 grand prize.
“The festival has truly stood the test of time, after having made its debut in Mbare at Mai Musodzi Hall, we can safely say we have championed in promoting and developing talent in the country.
“Chibuku has achieved this along with our partners, the National Arts Council Zimbabwe (NACZ) and Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA).
“We are excited to celebrate 60 years of the product, Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival,” said Delta Corporation, marketing director, Irimayi Muzorewa, in a statement.
The runners-up at the national finals will walk away with US$10 000 and US$7 500 respectively.
Participants at the provincial finals will also walk away with prize money.
The dance showcase is sponsored by Delta Corporation, through its flagship brand, Chibuku, which also celebrated its 60th anniversary last year.
Participants are required to register their groups with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and ZNTDA to be able to participate
Last year, Mutare’s Dapurahunanzva Dance Troupe won the competition.
Online Reporter