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Gibson Mhaka and Faith Ndlovu
FRIDAY Live at Amakhosi!
Do you still remember this legendary live music production show that graced ZBC screens, electrifying audiences with performances from top-tier bands?
The show became a cultural touchstone, illuminating Bulawayo’s vibrant music scene and captivating viewers nationwide. This was a cornerstone of Amakhosi Cultural Centre’s rise to prominence as Zimbabwe’s premier arts hub, despite early successes locally and abroad in theatre.
This ground-breaking live music production captivated audiences nationwide, showcasing Bulawayo’s exceptional musical talent and solidifying Amakhosi Cultural Centre’s reputation as a cultural powerhouse.
The cultural centre was founded in 1982 by the late renowned playwright, producer and director, Cont Mhlanga. Mhlanga died on August 1, 2022 at the age of 64. Mhlanga died at the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) after being admitted for 10 days. He succumbed to pneumonia.
The revered cultural centre produced some of the country’s most renowned artistes, including Mgcini Nyoni, Dudu Manhenga, Beater Mangethe, Raisedon Baya, Nonhlalo Dube, Alick Zulu and Memory Kumbota, among others.
However, in recent years, Amakhosi has taken a backseat in Bulawayo’s vibrant arts scene. Once a prolific producer of ground-breaking productions, the centre has seen a marked decline in its output. Its absence from the city’s cultural landscape is increasingly noticeable.
Although Mhlanga had retired and left Amakhosi Theatre Productions, his beloved brainchild, in the hands of younger members of his iconic creative company before his death, concerns arose about the revered Amakhosi Centre’s accelerated decline.
Concerns about its decline began when the centre was literally converted into a bus terminus, a move that further eroded its reputation as a cultural hub. This decision alienated artistes and audiences alike, contributing to the centre’s “downfall”.
A B-Metro news crew’s visit to the cultural centre on Tuesday confirmed the mounting concerns about its decline. Once a vibrant hub of artistic expression and creativity in Bulawayo, the centre now stands as a mere shadow of its former self.
The institution’s subsequent decline has fuelled fears that the void left by Mhlanga is proving difficult to fill. Reduced programming and diminished community engagement are evident signs of the struggles faced by the once-vibrant hub, casting doubt on the long-term sustainability of Mhlanga’s legacy.
The once-thriving theatre, dance and music programmes have slowed down and the vibrant atmosphere that defined Amakhosi has given way to a sense of stagnation. The centre is now literally deserted, with little activity compared to its heyday.
Some spaces are even rented out to churches and to other creatives for rehearsals. The decline is a stark reminder of the immense contribution Mhlanga made to the arts and culture landscape of Zimbabwe.
As we mark the second anniversary of Mhlanga’s passing, it is important to note that there is a need to develop comprehensive plans and strategies to revitalise Amakhosi Cultural Centre and ensure its long-term sustainability.
The centre’s continued significance as a cultural cornerstone necessitates pro-active steps to address the challenges it faces and ensure its relevance in the evolving arts landscape. Nonhlalo Dube, a product of Amakhosi Cultural Centre, reflected on the impact of Mhlanga’s loss on the centre’s creative output and morale.
She acknowledged that Mhlanga’s passing represented a loss of expertise and guidance but emphasised that his legacy continues to inspire and motivate artistes to carry on his work. “He was a visionary who transformed the arts landscape in Bulawayo and Zimbabwe, leaving an enduring legacy. His contributions paved the way for future generations of artistes, making him a true national arts hero.
While Mhlanga’s passing meant a loss of invaluable expertise and guidance, his spirit continues to inspire us. Though the centre’s current activity level is a stark contrast to its heyday, it remains a testament to his commitment. Many of the artistes who excelled in their careers were nurtured here, carrying forward his legacy,” she said.
On the preservation of Mhlanga’s legacy at the centre, Nonhlalo said: “I have confidence in the team currently leading the centre. I believe they have the ability to honour Mhlanga’s vision and values. “His legacy is in good hands and will continue to inspire and grow. The centre should also maintain its support for emerging artistes and embrace new technologies to stay relevant.”
Another product of the centre, Mgcini Nyoni said rather than focusing solely on the physical decline of the Amakhosi Centre, there is a need to consider the broader impact of Mhlanga’s absence on the entire industry.
“Rather than focusing on the physical decline of the Amakhosi Centre, I believe we should consider the impact of Cont Mhlanga’s absence on the industry as a whole. His wise counsel was invaluable, and many of us would occasionally go back to Cont either at his rural home in Lupane or at Amakhosi whenever he was in town. The industry still needs that level of mentorship and expertise.
“The names Cont Mhlanga and Amakhosi have opened countless doors for artistes worldwide. Before establishing our own brands, simply mentioning our affiliation with Amakhosi garnered immediate respect and opportunities. Many artistes are thriving independently, thanks to the mentorship and training provided by Cont Mhlanga and the Amakhosi instructors,” said Nyoni.
Attempts by B-Metro to contact Mhlanga’s family were unsuccessful, amid indications that some were attending a funeral.
Online Reporter