Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
UNITED Kingdom-based mbira player Linos “Wengara” Magaya may be celebrated in Brighton, but he has largely been forgotten in Zimbabwe
The 50-year-old, who has also made a name for himself as an academic, returned to Zimbabwe last weekend to reconnect with local audiences.
During his month-long stay, he will collaborate with Mawungira Enharira, later known as Tichaona “Nyamasvisva” MaAfrika, as they embark on a tour across Zimbabwe, leading up to their anticipated performances in Europe.
In an interview with the Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Magaya expressed his excitement about returning home for a series of performances, workshops, and traditional events.
“It feels good to be back home to meet my kith and kin after a long time,” he said.
“Of course, I have been visiting here and there, but when it comes to performances, I last staged shows in Zimbabwe around 2015.
“It must be 11 years since I last performed in my home country, but in my hometown of Brighton, I have performed and am still booked for major festivals.
“I am backed by my group called Zimbarembwe Mbira Vibes in the United Kingdom.”
Magaya believes his partnership with Nyamasvisva will bring about the desired fortunes.
“To be honest with you, I have known Nyamasvisva since the ‘90s, and I have always respected him as a hard worker and innovative artist.
“On this tour of mine, I have a series of gigs lined up at Mushandirapamwe Hotel, Theatre in the Park, Chitungwiza, and The Grub. I lined up these gigs to ensure that I reconnect with my fans,” he said.
The player, who boasts 20 albums and over 150 videos to his name, admitted that he was also homesick.
“There is no better place like home, and I have always wanted to come back not only as a visitor but also as a performer.
“After promoting mbira overseas and not being appreciated as much on home turf is not correct. Of course, some people knew me before I moved to the United Kingdom, but some don’t.”
The talented composer and choreographer, who has also performed at major events like WOMAD, Glastonbury Festival, Shambala Festival, and the Zimbabwe Heritage Festival, has vowed to endear himself to fans. “It’s never too late for me to start reconnecting with my kith and kin.
“This first tour will set the tone for what people can expect in the future. It is my hope that I hold at least two tours per year in Zimbabwe, complementing them with my international engagements. I want to be remembered as one of the finest mbira players who has promoted the sacred genre both locally and overseas,” he added.
Mathew Masinge