adminNkululeko Nkala
Sometimes things happen with little or no announcement that affect the rest of our existence.
Last weekend had such developments. It may not have been loud but it surely was one of the great art weekends of the year. It began on Thursday with Zandezi, a physical theatre play which is by far one of the best pieces to come out of Bulawayo in recent times. It stars Ronald Sgeca and Khekhe, two young men who started their art at school and later joined Centre for Talent Development.
The two made the great trek to Harare to train in physical theatre under Lloyd Nyikadzino who directs the piece.
On Friday the popular Eziko Theatre Laboratory celebrated its 10th year anniversary with amazing performances from the likes of Iyasa, Sungura Masters, Slow Poison, Hwabaraty and Khaya Arts. That platform has seen the rebirth and birth of many artistes.
And in terms of consistency, it has been one of those that have weathered every storm. After Eziko we went to another theatre show at Bulawayo Theatre. The play titled The Civilian featured renowned theatre practitioners Alick Zulu, Gift Chakuvinga, Donna and Mazilankatha. It was written by Thulani Mbambo and is directed by Nomvuyiso Mabi. One thing it further cemented is that theatre audiences are steadily growing.
The icing of Friday night was the annual Fingers Modelling Academy graduation. The event is usually held at Fingers Salon but was moved to Hope Centre for more room. It was a master stroke. It turned the graduation into an amazing show carrying more numbers. Sarah Mpofu does deserve a Hall of Fame recognition if there is ever going to be one in the industry. We again witnessed amazing models both male and female who could all easily take on national and international stages.
On Saturday, being a city predominantly influenced by South Africa, we welcomed man of the moment Mlindo of the AmaBlesser and Amacala fame. Although the show had its own problems just like any other event the attendance was amazing. People parted with R100 for ordinary tickets to watch the South African artiste as the VIP forked R200 and the VVIP R300. I really have nothing to say about the stage work. But one thing for sure his music is popular.
Sunday was the climax of it all. The venue was The Place and music provided by Project Ngoma/ Ingoma. Project Ingoma is by Outfit Band, De Lukes and Carlos Jiri. I remember a few months back when Mookomba came to Bulawayo we spoke about their presentation on stage. Everything about them was international.
I witnessed the same thing on Sunday. This is one of the most polished shows ever to come out of Bulawayo. Everyone knows the Outfit Band is the best in terms of instrumentation.
That coupled with the scintillating voices of De Lukes and Carlos, the Outfit Band actually is hot! This is a must have album and a must watch show. If anything, I will not be surprised if this show makes it international with its afro fusion sound. Until next week, be safe.
@nkuenkala 0772214373
derick.khumalo