
Tafadzwa Zimoyo : Arts Reporter
ALL roads tomorrow lead to the Harare International Conference Centre for The Sunday Mail Bridal show concert. The concert will close the two-day event that begins with a Bridal Expo today. The gala will feature superstar Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, high-flying Jah Prayzah and on-fire Winky D. Jah Prayzah and Winky D are the most sought-after artistes in the country having won numerous awards between them during the past two months.Winky D, whose song “Disappear” won accolades at three different awards ceremonies in two months, will be out to show that Zimdancehall is still popular with music followers.
His manager, Jonathan Banda, who has recently changed his name to Ras Walimo, said that the dancehall maestro will be displaying his dynamism.
“Winky is going to be his usual best on the night and as a dynamic artiste he has always managed to thrill all types of audiences. It will be great being part of this event which is family friendly and promotes family values,” said Walimo.
On the other hand, Jah Prayzah has captured the imagination of the majority of music lovers in the country with his captivating music and choreography of stage. He has changed the rules of the game and has everyone from little kids to grannies singing along to his music.
Keen Mashapaidze, Jah Prayzah’s manager, said his camp was excited to be part of the Bridal Gala.
“It is always an honour performing at an event where marriages and weddings are celebrated. We want people to come in their numbers and everyone who is coming should expect a thrilling performance from the band,” said Mashapaidze.
Add Tuku to the mix, the godfather of local music and an icon of Africa – and it is guaranteed attendees will have their money’s worth. Said Sam Mataure, Tuku’s manager: “We have a good relationship with The Sunday Mail. We have performed at the Bridal Gala before. We know what those that attend the event expect from us and we are going to deliver just that. It is indeed going to be a thriller.”
Zimpapers business manager (marketing) Charity Gwata-Chirume, said tomorrow’s show will be memorable.
“If you look at the line-up of artistes you can tell that these are some of the best musicians in the country, so it’s guaranteed that the event will be full of excitement. We are encouraging people to come with their families because this is a rare opportunity where you get to have such a line-up at a family friendly event.
“The Sunday Mail Bridal Show is an annual event that has been gaining popularity and many families, every year, look forward to this event – so this is one event one must not miss,” said Gwata-Chirume.
Prior to the Bridal Gala, The Sunday Mail Bridal Expo will take centre stage on today and tomorrow at Rainbow Towers Gardens. Entry for the Expo is free while $10 will be charged for the Gala. Tickets are already on sale at Herald House, Star FM and Zimpapers offices at the Exhibition Park.
The Bride of the Year contest, which has been in existence for many years, provides an opportunity for scores of brides to have their weddings and cakes featured in the country’s leading family and weekly newspaper.
The prize-giving ceremony starts at 6pm and will run up to 8pm, after which the music extravaganza will continue until late into the night.
The winning bride will go away $1 000 richer while the first runner-up will receive $800. The third-placed bride receives $600. In the cake category, the winner, first runner-up and second runner-up will walk away with $800, $700 and $600 respectively.
One lucky ticket holder will leave the venue with a free wedding voucher while one reader of The Sunday Mail, who has to be in attendance, will win a 32-inch LED TV.
Last year, Rudo Madzviti-Zenda was crowned Bride of the Year while Faith Mazorodze-Mufumi took second place and Tapiwa Bepe-Matyanga grabbed the third spot.



