Chronicle Editor
Fungai Muderere/Leonard Ncube, Showbiz Reporters
THE Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival Matabeleland North provincial finals are set to take place in Hwange today, marking a significant shift from their usual venue in Victoria Falls.
This year, the festival’s organisers, the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dancers Association (ZNTDA) and Delta Beverages, have decided to decentralise the event, bringing it to Jabulani Beerhall in the vibrant coal mining town.
Traditionally, the finals were held at the iconic Chinotimba Old Bar, but the decision to move the event to Hwange aims to provide an opportunity for rural and school groups to participate in the festival’s line-up.
The festival has become a platform for showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Matabeleland North province, and this year, it welcomes a diverse array of performers, including both seasoned veterans and exciting newcomers.
Kennedy Kachuruka, the president of ZNTDA, expressed his enthusiasm for the event.
“Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival 2023 will have 10 groups from all over Matabeleland North province.
The event will be held at Jabulani Beerhall in Hwange on Saturday, possibly from 11am to 5pm. The winner will proceed to the national finals on July 15.”
Among the anticipated participants in Hwange are renowned groups such as Vulindlela, known for their captivating Amabhiza performances, and last year’s provincial winners, Pezhuba Pachena.
Imbube group Imvimbi, all-female group Amakhosikazi, and nyau performers Gulewankulu from Zambia will also grace the stage.
Adding to the excitement are new entrants, including Touch and Move Lubangwe Performing Arts, Lukosi Traditional, Taboka, Twalumba, and Tiyeseko Group, each bringing their unique flair to the festival.
In recognition of their exceptional talent, the provincial winners will be rewarded handsomely.
The first-place group will receive a prize of US$2 500, while the first and second runners-up will be awarded US$1 500 and US$1 000, respectively.
These incentives serve as both a testament to the dancers’ dedication and a means to support the development of traditional arts in the region.
The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival is a national celebration of Zimbabwean culture, and this year’s edition has already seen successful provincial finals in Mashonaland Central and Masvingo.
Swerengoma Arts and Jeketera Renyaningwe emerged as the winners, earning the opportunity to represent their provinces at the highly anticipated national finals.
At the national stage, the stakes are even higher, with a total prize pool of US$32 500 awaiting the top performers.
The winners will receive a remarkable US$15 000, while the second-best ensemble will be awarded US$10 000.
The group that captures the third position will still walk away with a substantial US$7 500, providing further encouragement for participants to showcase their skills and cultural heritage on a national platform.
The theme for this year’s festival, “Bira Remadhanzi, 60 Years Sithokozisa Ngezomgido!” encapsulates the essence of the event.
It pays tribute to the festival’s longevity and its commitment to celebrating traditional dance for the past six decades.
The festival owes its continued success to the generous support of Delta Beverages, who have been instrumental in promoting and developing the arts in the community through their Chibuku brand. The National Arts Council Zimbabwe (NACZ) and Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA) have also played vital roles as valued partners.
Last year’s national finals of the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival were held at the iconic Harare Gardens, where Mutare-based traditional ensemble Dapurahunanzva emerged as the deserving winners.
Their outstanding performance captivated the judges and audience alike, earning them the prestigious first prize.
This year’s festival has already made its mark, starting with a remarkable debut in Mbare at Mai Musodzi Hall.
The festival’s enduring popularity and success can be attributed to its commitment to preserving and promoting Zimbabwean cultural heritage.
The partnership between Delta Beverages, the National Arts Council Zimbabwe (NACZ), and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA) has been instrumental in nurturing and developing the arts within the community.
As the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival continues to celebrate its sixtieth anniversary, the festival’s enduring legacy is evident.
It has not only provided a platform for artistes to showcase their talent but has also become a unifying force, bringing together diverse communities and fostering a sense of pride in Zimbabwean culture.
As the festival descends upon Hwange for the Matabeleland North provincial finals, the atmosphere is electric.
The shift in venue from Victoria Falls to Jabulani Beerhall signifies a new chapter for the festival, as it embraces fresh opportunities and welcomes rural and school groups to participate.
From seasoned veterans like Vulindlela and Pezhuba Pachena to the dynamic newcomers of Touch and Move Lubangwe Performing Arts, Lukosi Traditional, Taboka, Twalumba, and Tiyeseko Group, the stage is set for an unforgettable display of traditional dance.
The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival is more than just a competition. It is a celebration of Zimbabwean identity, a homage to the past, and a vision for the future.
As the rhythmic beats and mesmerising movements fill the air, the festival stands as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and passion of the Zimbabwean people.
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