daniel chigunwe
Trust Khosa
The 23rd National Arts Merit Awards (NAMAs) ceremony promises to be a distinctive celebration of pure talent and class, according to event organisers.
Scheduled to take place in Harare on March 31, with the venue to be announced in two weeks, this year’s edition is set to be full of surprises.
In a show of inclusivity and economic empowerment, the 23rd NAMAs will celebrate pure talent under one roof and provide a platform for entrepreneurs to thrive by selling their wares.
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), in partnership with Jacaranda Culture and Media Corporation (JCMC), is spearheading this exciting event.
In an interview with The Herald Arts, NACZ communications and marketing manager Agga Nyabinde shared how preparations are progressing.
“First of all, the 23rd NAMAs are on the 31st of March, and this one is in Harare because the previous one was in Bulawayo.
“We will announce the venue together with the nominees in two weeks. You will get all the details about the venue and the nominees as well at that time,” he said.
Nyabinde assured fans that they would be treated to a brand-new dance ensemble scouted by their team.
“We conducted auditions for the dancers, so a lot of talent was identified. Some were individuals who were not even part of a particular group, and some were a group.
“It’s just a consolidation to create a new dance group meant for the 23rd NAMA edition. We created a new act and ensemble, not by hiring one dance group, but by identifying different talented dancers to form one group dedicated to the NAMA awards,” he said.Nyabinde also clarified the selection of entrepreneurs selling their wares at the event.
“In terms of vending, we invited vendors willing to set up vending stands because, at this year’s event, we have a different sitting arrangement. “We are also offering opportunities to entrepreneurs who want to sell beverages and food, but they will be vetted to ensure quality.”
He added, “It will be a different venue altogether; we want to keep it a surprise. For our fans, be prepared for something new, something exciting as we explore our theme, ‘Afrofuturism’, which is unleashing the future of Zimbabwean art.”
The 23rd NAMA organisers have been praised for thinking outside the box by inviting new dancers to participate.
This move aims to provide deserving performers with an opportunity to shine while also addressing the monotony that has often been cited as a major setback in past events.
By inviting vendors, the event will offer a unique experience, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of options.
Works produced from December 1, 2023, to November 30, 2024, will be considered for the 23rd NAMAs.
In a recent interview, Tinashe Kitchen from JCMC stated that preparations were well underway. “Preparations are at an advanced stage; we are excited for the 23rd edition of the event and look forward to celebrating all forms of Zimbabwean art,” he was quoted as saying.
Kitchen also explained this year’s theme, which is “Afrofuturism.”
“We want to showcase our vision for what the local arts sector will look like 100 years from now. Our images, our red carpet, and our presentation for the awards will celebrate all these elements and more,” he stressed.
Earlier this year, the NAMAs organisers announced several changes to enhance efficiency, transparency, and fairness in the adjudication processes.
They introduced a revamped system aimed at improving these aspects. NACZ boss Napoleon Nyanhi also assured fans that NAMA will continue to be decentralised to ensure that no one is left behind.
As expected, the focus will not only be on the winners on March 31 but also on the entertainers who come forward to express their intention to perform.
The event manager will also come under scrutiny as fans expect a show of superior quality. This move aims to ensure inclusivity across all art forms.
This initiative will go a long way in ensuring that the awards maintain their glamour.
For Nyanhi and his team, this is the perfect opportunity to change the game and demonstrate their worth not only as arts regulators but also as trendsetters in running merit awards.
Online Reporter