adminBongani Ndlovu Showbiz Correspondent
Ezimnyama Arts Ensemble – Bulawayo’s representatives at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival are polishing their muchongoyo act ahead of the national finals on Saturday. The group, which last month earned a slot to represent Bulawayo at the finals will now battle it out with nine other groups, Jahunda Community Arts (Matabeleland South), Undi Gure (Midlands), Makarekare Dance Troop (Mashonaland East), Budiriro Arts (Mashonaland West), Gango Traditional Group (Masvingo) and Shingai Dance Troop (Harare). Bulawayo will this year host the finals at White City Stadium, moving away from Harare.
Phibion Ncube — the ensembles artistic director said they were working flat out to polish their act as they want to showcase the best of Bulawayo art.
“Preparations for the finals are going well as we’re working hard at Matshobane Hall, polishing up our muchongoyo act which we’ll present on the day of the competition,” Ncube said.
“We want to represent Bulawayo the best way we can and all we ask is for everyone to support us by packing the stadium, come Saturday,” Ncube said.
He said making it to the Chibuku Neshamwari finals was a result of years of perseverance and hard work.
“In the beginning, it was difficult getting shows to sustain the group. Us making it to finals such as these it shows that we’ve been working very hard as a group,” said Ncube.
Aside from being entertained by the competing groups, revellers will be entertained by Martin Sibanda and the Ndolwane Super Sounds, Clement Magwaza and Umkhathi Theatre Works.
Online Reporter