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Trust Khosa
Arts Reporter
ANGER, drama, and tears marred the inaugural Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts (OMIFA) held at Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton over the weekend.
Selmor Mtukudzi stole the limelight after she walked off stage after playing one song.
She ended her act prematurely, much to the chagrin of loyal fans who only a few weeks ago fought gallantly in her corner, to have her name included on the Omifa entertainment list, after her initial exclusion by show organisers.
Some said the unnecessary drama was so much that her sympathisers lost their patience with the diva.
Family friend and arts promoter Josphat Hozheri tried her best to convince Selmor to return to the stage in vain.
Her elder sister Sandra, who flew from her England base, was equally shocked as she was seen trying to convince the inconsolable Selmor to finish her act.
“I think the drama is too much. It is high time Selmor learnt to respect us.
“Her drama with Daisy (Tuku’s widow) has gone too far to the extent that we can no longer tolerate this nonsense,” said an angry fan in the audience.
Despite all the drama, arts regulatory chiefs who attended the event were impressed by the high professionalism displayed by Tuku Music Pvt Ltd.
Daisy, who was in the limelight during the build-up to the event, should be forgiven after all the drama.
In response to the crowd’s demands that Selmor be included in the line-up, the event organisers gave Selmor a prime slot.
Apart from the drama, Pakare Paye products saluted the late crooner in style.
Mbira princess Tendai Mavengeni delivered a polished act set to remain etched in the minds of many.
Backed by her father Bornface Mavengeni, the duo was in high spirits as they entertained both local and international guests.
Not to be outdone was Innocent “Sarungano” Kufakunesu who played both his compositions and Tuku’s timeless classics.
Killer T, who hardly disappoints on stage, had a good day in the office.
His manager Kudzai “Supa” Biston saluted the Tuku family for inviting them to perform.
“We did not think twice when we were contacted to come and perform here.
“As you all know, Tuku was an icon, and as a national hero it feels good to be part of this event,” he said.
Biston said Killer T has always been Tuku’s follower for years.
“My artiste Killer T is known for singing music with a lot of depth as shown in his songs.
“He has been trying his best to emulate Tuku in terms of songwriting.
“We always encourage each other to work very hard to ensure that we produce desired results,” he said.
Online Reporter