adminLiberty Dube
THE much-awaited 14th edition of the Chimanimani Arts Festival roars into life today (Friday) with the official opening ceremony and other performances lined up for the day and night. The official opening ceremony will be held at Hala (Chimanimani) Hotel where guest of honour, Deputy Minister of Information and Publicity Supa Mandiwanzira and various traditional chiefs are expected to deliver speeches.
Chimanimani Arts festival director, Chido Musasiwa-Gutu said all was in place for the festival which is running up to Sunday (August 10) under the theme: “Together we can”.
Without taking anything away from the local groups, all eyes will be on granddad of Zimbabwe music, Oliver “Samanyanga” Mtukudzi, self proclaimed dancehall king, Sniper Storm and rising urban groover, Ba Shupi, who are scheduled to perform tomorrow (Saturday).
This will also be a grand chance for Mutare-based ragga Manyika outfit, Assegai Crew, to market their new album Tadzokahe (We are back) which has been received with mixed feelings by music critics.
“All logistics are in place and we thank our partners for a job well done. We are looking forward to having a successful edition filled with fun,” she said.
The festival roars into life today with various traditional groups among them Vibe Culture, Mazwi Mbira Crew, Batanai Unite Marimba Ensemble,
Chivaraidze and Garawiro performing.
Workshops on script writing, filming and theatre will also be conducted.
Tomorrow (Saturday) will see superstar, Oliver Mtukudzi, Sniper Storm, Tsitsi, BaShupi & The Eastern Gospel, Aleck Muchayi & Ngangu Band, Daniel Mirisi and The Lion of Judah, Joshua Sacco and the Radiation, Shorai Chipungurana and Orchestra Warura Band, Andy Mushy, Memo and the Antiques, Assegai Crew, Tariro NeGitare, Jam Signal, Junior Bantan and House of Stone and DJ Irie Lion showcasing their antiques.
The comical Sabhuku Vharazipi will also feature at the festival as well as theatrical works and films such as Nyaminyami Amajiabulozi, I want a Wedding Dress, Peretera Maneta – Spell My Name, Sharing Day, Kare Kare Zvako Mothers Day, Elelwani, Chipawo, Njube High School (Let Them), Giant Puppets, Chipawo, Let Them Trust – Njube High School from Bulawayo in the theatre, film (Women Film makers of Zimbabwe).
Online Reporter