Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
What started as a women’s social gathering has now turned into a cultural movement.
The second Harare edition of Doek and Slay drew another massive crowd at Glamis Arena yesterday, with thousands of women turning up in denim-denim, cowgirl-inspired outfits and sunglasses to celebrate friendship, fashion, music and simply the joy of being together.
Following the event’s successful Bulawayo edition last weekend, the Harare gathering further cemented Doek and Slay’s growing appeal among women with organisers describing the latest edition as also one their biggest attendance.
The atmosphere at Glamis Arena yesterday was electric as women arrived in groups dressed to impress and ready to enjoy a day away from the pressures of everyday life.
But because Doek and Slay is held on a Sunday organisers also made room for a gospel touch giving the women an opportunity to worship and reflect before getting back to the partying.
They said gospel segment served as a gentle reminder that amid the fashion, dancing and entertainment it was still Sunday with the ladies getting to enjoy a spiritual moment as part of the day’s programme.
Music proved to be one of the biggest attractions, with sungura king Alick Macheso, Nisha Ts, Freeman, EXQ, Baba Harare, Intotal Band and Hulengende keeping the crowd entertained.
Surprise performances from the likes of Qounfuzed added another layer of excitement to an already packed programme.
For many women, however, Macheso’s appearance was one of the highlights.
Known for attracting huge male crowds, Macheso appeared to have found a different audience at Doek and Slay, with women singing along to his songs and dancing throughout his performance.
The response was a reminder that his music cuts across gender and age.
For the organisers, the growing turnout is evidence that Doek and Slay has moved beyond being just another entertainment event.
They believe it is becoming a community and, in their words, a “cult” for women.
“This time we have taken time to go back to the drawing board and discuss how we can bring something new, so we have a new look for the ladies and we decided to bring new activities for the ladies.
“We can safely say that this edition is one of the biggest events, with thousands of women in attendance. We appreciate all the ladies who are dedicated to coming and sharing this experience with us.
“The biggest change we’ve seen is audiences wanting safe spaces where women can express themselves openly and without judgment. Because of that, we now prioritise empowerment and community, designing experiences that weave together fashion, art and self-expression,” said one of the organisers
