Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
MUTARE’S entertainment calendar is about to peak early in the year as sungura legend, Alick Macheso and seasoned songwriter, Progress Chipfumo, prepare to share the stage in what promises to be one of the city’s most talked-about shows.
Billed as Sungura Chillout, the show goes down next Saturday at the newly upgraded Platinum Leisure Centre, popularly known as PaMupfumi, and all signs point to a night that will set the tone for 2026.
For Macheso, the performance marks a powerful return to the public stage after his annual month-long break, a period traditionally reserved for rest, reflection and behind-the-scenes music planning.
Fans know better what to expect when Macheso returns from leave. History has shown that these comeback performances often come loaded with energy, surprises and sometimes new material.
Sharing the bill with him is one of Zimbabwe music scene’s most consistent performers whose steady rise and loyal fan base have earned him respect across generations.
While the two have crossed paths on the broader sungura circuit before, this will be their first time performing together at The Platinum Leisure Centre.
Adding to the anticipation, both Macheso and Chipfumo have hinted that the Mutare audience could be the first to hear brand-new, unreleased material.
Macheso’s manager, Tich Makahamadze said the upcoming show is more than just another booking on the calendar.
“This performance is very important to us. Macheso is coming straight from his annual leave, and when he returns, he returns refreshed, focused and hungry to connect with his fans again. Mutare has always been a stronghold for sungura music and we felt it was the right place to kick off this new chapter.”
Makahamadze revealed that rehearsals have been intense, with special attention paid to sound, set arrangement and audience engagement.
“We are not just coming to play songs people already know. There is serious work that has gone into this show. The band is tight, the set list is carefully structured, and yes, fans should expect to hear something new. We won’t say too much, but those who attend will be rewarded.”
Chipfumo, says sharing the stage with Macheso in Mutare is both an honour and a challenge — one he is ready to embrace.
“Performing alongside Macheso in this industry, and any artiste who shares a stage with him must come prepared. I have been rehearsing hard because I want to give Mutare a performance they will remember. Sungura is not one sound, it is many stories, many rhythms and many emotions,” he said.
Like Macheso, Chipfumo also hinted at new music, suggesting that the show could offer a glimpse into what fans can expect from him in 2026.
“There is new work coming, and Mutare might just be the first place to hear it live. I always believe that music should be tested in front of the people, and this audience understands sungura. Their reaction tells you everything.”
The joint’s proprietor, Isau Mupfumi, said hosting Macheso and Chipfumo together is a milestone moment.
“This is exactly the kind of show we envisioned when we decided to upgrade the venue. We want PaMupfumi to be a home for quality entertainment, where top artistes feel comfortable and audiences feel valued.”
Mupfumi explained that the upgrades were driven by a desire to match local talent with global standards.
“We invested heavily in sound, lighting and comfort because Zimbabwean music deserves platforms that respect it. When people come here, they should feel like they are part of something special, not just attending another show. Having Macheso and Chipfumo on one stage is not just about one night. It sends a message that Mutare is ready for big shows again. This is only the beginning — 2026 is going to be very exciting.”
