Sundaymail EditorSociety Reporter
CHITUNGWIZA has over the years produced numerous top creatives who have gone on to dominate the arts sector, both within and beyond the country’s borders.
While some of these prominent figures have been honoured with various awards, others have sadly passed away without receiving due recognition.
The town boasts a rich artistic heritage, having nurtured renowned artistes such as sungura maestro Alick Macheso, gospel legends Baba Machanic Manyeruke and the Mahendere Brothers, as well as contemporary musicians like Master H, Hwindi President, Maskiri, Voltz JT, Vimbai Zimuto, Dhadza D and Lady Squander.
The dormitory town has also produced talented actors like Taonga Mafundikwa, Charles Mucheriwa and the acclaimed actress Jesesi Mungoshi.
Among the departed legends from “Chi-Town” (the street name for Chitungwiza) are musicians John “Mr Chitungwiza” Chibadura, Cephas Mashakada, Mr Bulk and Marshall Munhumumwe; actors Simon Shumba (better known as Mutiro Wafanza) and Thomas “Arimando” Samuel; sculptor Henry Munyaradzi; and author Charles Mungoshi.
These individuals, and many others, have played a significant role in establishing Chitungwiza as a vibrant arts hub.
Recognising the need to honour these local talents, the Chitungwiza Arts Festival Organisation (CAFO) has created an arts festival dedicated to celebrating both living and deceased legends.
The inaugural Chitungwiza Arts Festival is scheduled to take place from May 1 to 3, under the theme “Celebrating Our Icons”.
“Many artistes with thriving careers either hail from this town or gained their initial popularity here. We want to celebrate their contributions,” said CAFO director Nobert Fero.
“It is important to celebrate and honour artistes while they are alive. Those who have passed on will also be remembered during the festival.”
The fiesta is expected to bring together artistes who originate from or have been influenced by Chitungwiza’s dynamic creative community.
“The festival also aims to encourage and inspire our youth to pursue careers in the arts. During the event, we encourage artistes to perform one or two cover versions of our departed icons’ songs,” said Fero. This will be the first multi-disciplinary arts festival held in Chitungwiza.
“Our main venue will be the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex and we are negotiating to secure additional venues to spread the events throughout the town. We want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in this memorable and crucial event,” he added.
Arts festivals are known to bring numerous benefits to host communities.
They foster collaboration among artistes and stimulate economic growth by attracting visitors who spend money on food and merchandise, among other things.
“The main performances will take place during the day, allowing families to enjoy their favourite artistes. We are in discussions to bring together all the major artistes from Chitungwiza,” said Fero.
“We will also provide platforms for schools and emerging artistes to showcase their talents. In addition to art displays, there will be swimming, ball games and other family friendly activities.”
He expressed his desire to see major roads and public spaces in Chitungwiza named after some of the town’s most outstanding artistic icons.
Online Reporter