adminIn a statement Siyaya Arts press liaison officer, Nkululeko Nkala, said lack of funding and their abandoned European tour had affected their annual programme.
“This year’s festival has been cut short because of lack of funding and support from the corporate world and Siyaya’s botched tour of Europe that was affected by the Air Zimbabwe pilots strike. Fifty
percent of the festival’s funding comes from Siyaya’s travels and tours,” said Nkala.
He said although the fete had been scaled down they were striving to maintain its high standards as all genres would be included in the four-day-long event.
“Though scaled down, the festival retains its quality in performance, the four days will encompass most of the genres and art disciplines that were included in last years’ programming.
The disciplines include, theatre, music, dance, comedy, poetry, film and some interesting collaborations,” he said.
He, however, said international artistes would be absent at the carnival this year.
“The festival will not feature any international groups due to lack of funds and all international acts will be committed to next year,” said Nkala.
He said this year’s event is set to be more colourful as the preparations were already underway with more than 30 groups and individual artistes expected will grace the 4-day festival
Last year a lot of seasoned local artistes graced the eight day festival with Willis Wataffi, Jeys Marabini, Sandra Ndebele, Carl Ncube, Clive Chigubhu, Edith Katiji, Victor Kunonga, Winky D, Black Umfolosi, Umdumo Wesizwe and Siyaya taking turns to play for the appreciative audiences to name but a few.
Nkala said the event would be held at Stanley Hall and Stanley Square in Makokoba.
Online Reporter