Londile Moyo
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Bulawayo is set to come alive today as some of the city’s finest traditional dance groups battle for provincial glory at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival provincial finals taking place at a local hotel.
Running under the theme “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane”, the competition which kicks off at midday is expected to deliver a thrilling showcase of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage through rhythm, dance, and vibrant traditional expression.
A total of 10 groups are expected to take to the stage, each hoping to impress judges and secure a place at the national finals slated for July 11.
Among the groups expected to light up the stage are Isitshikitsha outfits Thandanani, Bambanani, Iluba Lemvelo, Jaiva Arts, Vuka Mthwakazi, and Tshikitshiki Dance. Setapa dancers Mthwakazi Kandaba will also be aiming to make a mark, while Hosana groups Isizwe Sabatsha and Amanxele Amahle are expected to bring energetic performances. Ezimnyama will represent the Tsutsube dance genre.
With competition expected to be fierce, dance enthusiasts can anticipate a colourful clash of styles, drumbeats, and cultural storytelling as groups compete for lucrative prizes.
Provincial winners will walk away with US$2 500, while second and third place winners will receive US$1 500 and US$1 000 respectively. The national finals carry even bigger rewards, with the ultimate winners set to pocket US$15 000.
Following the Bulawayo contest, the festival caravan will move to Mt Darwin, Gutu, Gwanda, Murehwa, Harare, Chinhoyi, Victoria Falls, Nyanga, and Kwekwe.
Sponsored by Delta Corporation in partnership with National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association, the festival continues to play a significant role in preserving Zimbabwe’s traditional dances while empowering local artistes through exposure and prize money.
Online Reporter