Creatives unite for Culture Month national showcase

Langalakhe Mabena

Zimpapers Entertainment Hub

OVER 120 creatives from across Matabeleland region have joined forces to produce a 30-minute cultural showcase set to headline the national Culture Month celebrations at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo tomorrow.

The event, which is expected to be officiated by President Mnangagwa, will celebrate Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and diversity under this year’s theme, “Cultural Diversity: Advancing Vision 2030.”

The large-scale production brings together some of Matabeleland’s most respected creatives and emerging talents in a collaborative performance that blends dance, theatre, music and storytelling.

The creative team is led by producer and director Simon “Mambazo” Phiri, choreographer Mehluli “Gomez” Dube and assistant choreographer Richard Ndlovu, while Umkhathi Theatre Works’ Joseph Ngubo serves as stage manager.

Dube said the production reflects the strength of collaboration between seasoned performers and rising artistes from different disciplines and cultural backgrounds.

“It is a privilege to work with such a diverse team of creatives from across Matabeleland. Young artistes are being mentored by experienced leaders in the dance and performing arts sectors who have the expertise to deliver an event of this magnitude.

“This team features some of Bulawayo’s finest talents, including Umkhathi Theatre Works, Thandy Dhlana, Ramsey K, Sam Siwela, Gog Bekezela and Mthabisi Moyo, among others. We deliberately selected creatives who understand the importance of teamwork, discipline and excellence because this production carries the pride and identity of Bulawayo,” said Dube.

Veteran arts practitioner Phiri said the production seeks to reinforce Bulawayo’s long-standing reputation as Zimbabwe’s cultural capital.

“Bulawayo has always been regarded as the country’s cultural hub, and local artistes understand the responsibility of preserving that legacy for future generations.

“This celebration is also significant for the city as President Mnangagwa returns to Bulawayo to officiate at a major cultural event. His presence reflects the importance of arts and culture in national development and the continued recognition of Bulawayo’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s cultural landscape.”

Joseph Ngubo said preparations for the showcase were progressing smoothly, with rehearsals producing impressive results.

“We have been working intensively with more than 120 artistes, mainly from the Matabeleland region, bringing together dancers, musicians, traditional performers and creatives from different cultural background.

“The rehearsals have been productive and exciting because everyone understands the importance of this national occasion. As a team, we are focused on delivering a world-class production that truly celebrates Zimbabwe’s cultural diversity and identity,” said Ngubo.

He said audiences should expect a vibrant fusion of traditional dance, live percussion, music and theatrical storytelling.

“The production will highlight a variety of traditional dances, predominantly from Matabeleland, including Hosana, Ingquzu, Amabhiza, Isitshikitsha and Umdadada, among other artistic expressions from across Zimbabwe,” he said.

“We will also present a modern and creative interpretation of how culture contributes to national unity, identity and the attainment of Vision 2030.”