Dance festival comes of age

Tinashe Makichi Cool Lifestyle Correspondent
WELL, whenever there is music the atmosphere can abruptly change to merry-making. Zimbabwe has many festivals which are promoting talent and Jibilika Dance Festival is one such platform, well known for its capacity to expose teenagers to the outside world through music and dance.

“I think the organisers are doing a good job in promoting talent, it’s just that more avenues should be opened up, so that it is not a one-day event,” said a 17-year-old fan from Glen View.

Some, said the festival also serves as a platform to share cultural ideas, to mingle and to socialise apart from the dance techniques.
Well, last weekend it was the bomb, despite teens being spoilt for choice, as many activities were taking place. Jibilika that was the overall winner. This year’s edition, which ran under the theme “Last Dancer Standing,” saw more than 40 dancing groups battling for supremacy including the deejaying and mceeing. As has become the norm, it was hip-hop versus dancehall.

“Mbare dance outfit Street Madness defended their title as they were voted the winner, walking away with US$400 cash,” said one of the organisers. Seven-year-old Dennis Chiyanga left the crowd in awe with his energetic moves from kwaito, hip-hop, dancehall to popular Nigerian dance Azonto.

Denzel Takudzwa Mashonganyika emerged winner in the beat-boxing competition winning a microphone, while Nyasha Madzingo was voted as the best female solo dancer.

However, Guspy Warrior’s hit song “Seunononga” drove the teens wild, with the dancers and crowd dancing to it. The festival was successful and fruitful as teens also had a chance to meet some of the country’s top dancers like the Professor.

Professor, who rose to fame as Roki’s dancer, also gave a well polished performance when he did his stint. The atmosphere was electric. Plot Mhako, JDF organiser, said he was surprised by the high turnout.

“We are growing each year and I am happy with the support we got from corporates and individuals. The festival’s platform has been fulfilled and already we are geared for next year’s edition,” he said.

Not to be outdone were different girls dance groups which put up good performances. Primrose Moyo from Highlands said given a chance girls are talented and can develop the nation through art.

“We are here to conquer the world. Girls are better off than boys when it comes to dance but it’s just that sometimes it is the boys that are given opportunity to shine,” said Primrose.

The event saw talented local hip-hopper Tehn Diamond entertaining the crowd.