Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
GREEN STARS DANCE TROUPE, hailing from Harare, pulled off a spectacular upset at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival in Mutare, clinching the coveted championship title in their debut appearance, some 260 kilometres from home. Their vibrant performance, intricate footwork, and colourful costumes captivated the judges, securing them the top prize of US$15 000.
The Harare-based group triumphed over ten other formidable ensembles, including second-placed Goromonzi Arts Ensemble (US10 000) and hosts Semvumba Arts Ensemble (US7 500). They outshone seasoned finalists such as Guruve Arts Ensemble and Sekunjalo MaAfrica, delivering a “complete shock — and a blessing in disguise,” as shared by the group’s second director, Takudzwa Kanotunga.
Kanotunga revealed the inspiring journey of Green Stars, which began in 2009 as a children’s performing arts group.
“Our members include underprivileged youths, differently-abled young people, and orphans,” he explained, highlighting their commitment to social inclusivity. The group meticulously prepared for the competition, with rehearsals starting in December 2024.
Their winning dance, Chinyambera, a traditional hunter’s dance, was performed with fresh innovations. Kanotunga noted, “Our style stood out because we had well-structured formations, counts, variations, and maintained the original context and costume. We also overcame stage fright as a group.” He emphasised their pride in Zimbabwean cultural diversity, performing various dances for “edutainment.”
The victory was particularly sweet for the 16-year-old troupe, who had previously failed to progress beyond the provincial finals on three occasions.
“We have faced criticism, discouragement, and being underestimated — but we persevered and finally succeeded,” Kanotunga stated.
Looking ahead, the group has ambitious plans. “Now that we have won, we are thinking big. We want to invest in the group by purchasing equipment, launching long-term income-generating projects, and we’ll discuss the rest as a team,” he said, acknowledging that the win “puts food on the table, and our members deserve a fair share of the rewards.”
The Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival, proudly supported by Delta Corporation, serves as a crucial platform for nurturing and promoting Zimbabwean traditional dance talent, contributing significantly to the preservation and growth of the nation’s rich culture. As Delta Corporation Marketing Director, Irimayi Muzorewa, put it, “We take pride in this competition, which has stood the test of time.”
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