Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Celebrated arts doyen Saimon Mambazo Phiri is set to celebrate his remarkable 50 years of existence and his contribution to the Zimbabwe arts and cultural scene through re-imagining his previous works and bringing them live on stage.
Mambazo who turned 50 on July 5, will celebrate his life in style in an unprecedented manner, one that might seem unachievable.
However, the mastermind himself has dreamt about it, imagined it and he believes it’s now time to put words into action.
For 50 nights, from July 16 to November 1, Bulawayo theatre spaces and artistic venues will transform into a buzzing hub of artistic expression, as Mambazo said he will be hosting various events during that time frame.
With his calibre in the arts scene proven for decades, Mambazo’s extraordinary events promise to showcase the richness of music, theatre and dance, reflecting both his illustrious past and continual evolution as a respected arts figure.
“This celebration is a chance to look back on my past projects, from the works I did with Siyaya, Zambezi Express and everything in between. Each performance will be a journey through my experiences over these decades.
“We will spend most of the time in the rehearsal rooms and the theatre re-imagining, reconstructing, and recreating some of my past work, as well as new projects that embody the spirit of collaboration with both seasoned artistes and emerging talents,” said Mambazo.
Highlighting on the City of Kings’ rich cultural fabric, Mambazo said Bulawayo has shaped him to be the person he is today, and it is important to stage these events for the community that groomed him.
“The arts scene in Bulawayo has been my canvas. Through this celebration, I want to honour the relationships I’ve built and the artistes I have worked alongside. This is not just my journey, it’s a collective one.
“I want to share my knowledge and experiences as much as I can. I am open to everyone at this moment. Let’s meet over a drink at the theatre bar or some popcorn at the canteen and foster connections,” said Mambazo.
He encouraged locals and those abroad to play their part in making such a huge dream come to fruition through different means.
“Let’s make this a massive arts party in the city. Whether it’s through financial contributions, collaborating on performances, or simple acts like distributing flyers and tickets, I am pleading with the community to come together in support of these monumental festivities,” he said.
Mambazo has set his hands on different arts products which played a crucial role in promoting and telling Zimbabwean stories accurately, both locally and on international stages.
His footprints are visible on different works including Siyaya, Sabela Projects, Umdumo Wesizwe, Zambezi Express, WOMAD Festival, Glastonbury Festivals, Wookey Hole Caves, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Zimbabwe Music Awards (Zima), World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), African Union Sport Council, Bulawayo Arts Awards, Ibumba International Festival, Bulawayo Arts Festival, to mention a few.
As the festivities approach, the clock is ticking towards what promises to be a historic celebration not just for Mambazo, but for the entire community that continues to inspire, innovate, and revitalise the arts in Bulawayo.
