Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE search for the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance champions begins this weekend.
Ten groups from the Midlands province will compete for a coveted spot in the national finals scheduled for Mkoba 4 Beerhall in Gweru this Saturday.
As has become the norm, stiff competition is anticipated at the provincial finals, where one group will advance to the national finals.
The festival, running under the theme “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane,” is a collaborative effort between the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA), with Delta Beverages sponsoring through their Chibuku brand.
A celebration of local dances and culture, the festival’s appeal has been growing over the years, as the winners’ fat cheque has created stiff competition over the years.
The excitement surrounding this year’s festival is palpable, as the organisers prepare for a smooth start to the provincial finals, scheduled to conclude on July 5.
While the grand finale venue will be announced later, the immediate focus is on the provincial competitions kicking off this Saturday in Gweru.
Following the Midlands event, the search will continue at Muchina Muhombe Bar in Mutare on May 24, ensuring a vibrant celebration of traditional dance across the nation.
This is a perfect opportunity for traditional dancers in Manicaland to showcase their rich heritage under one roof.
As the festival progresses, each province will showcase its unique cultural heritage through dance, with competitions taking place in various venues.
On May 31, Matabeleland North will select its champions at Lwendulu Beerhall in Hwange, while Mashonaland West will crown its winners at EMM Leisure Sports Bar in Banket.
The subsequent weeks will see further competitions in Masvingo, Mashonaland East, Matabeleland South, Harare, and Bulawayo, culminating in the final preliminaries at Tipaz Night Club in Shamva, on July 5.
Participants are encouraged to register their groups with the NACZ and ZNTDA, as they vie for substantial cash prizes.
Provincial winners will receive US$2500, with second and third place finalists earning US$1500 and US$1000.
At the national level, the ultimate winners will walk away with US$15000, while the runners-up will receive US$10000 and US$7500.
The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival boasts a legacy of over 60 years, celebrated for its promotion of various local dances, including Shangara, Mbira dance, and Jerusarema.
In Zimbabwe, traditional dances and performances such as Jerusarema remain important living traditions practiced in many contexts and revered by local communities.
These dances are performed for entertainment, ritual purposes, festivals, and commemorations.
As such, the annual Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival not only showcases the richness of Zimbabwean culture but also serves as a platform for preserving and expressing traditional heritage through dance.
A panel of esteemed judges, appointed by the NACZ and ZNTDA, will oversee the festival, reinforcing its status as a vital cultural celebration in the country. With the 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival ready to begin, it promises to be a remarkable event, spotlighting the diverse cultural expressions found within Zimbabwe.
As traditional dancers and choreographers come together to celebrate their traditions, this festival continues to play an essential role in fostering cultural pride and unity.
With eager anticipation for the upcoming competitions, the stage is set for yet another unforgettable celebration of dance and heritage.
