adminPraise Masvosva
THE late Afro fusion musician Prince Musarurwa’s documentary will have its première tomorrow at Jasen Mpepo’s Little Theatre.
Musarurwa’s life history is being chronicled in the film titled Nyamatsatse, courtesy of United States of America-based film director, Fungai Maboreke.
Maboreke, who jetted into the country on Wednesday, said all was set for the memorable day.
Musarurwa succumbed to cancer in February 2020.
“I was working with Prince on a documentary about his late grandfather, Augustine Musarurwa, of Skokiaan fame.
“During his tours of the USA, I realised that Prince had actually been telling more of his story alongside his grandfather’s.
“Following his illness and eventual death, it took me almost two years to review the footage and I came across a 10-minute video clip where Prince told me about his own musical journey,” he said.
“Combined with other interviews from his family, band members, music instructors from the Zimbabwe College of Music and his beloved niece Pah Chihera, eventually I was able to allow him to tell his story through a documentary.
“The film premiers at the Jasen Mpepo’s Little Theatre, which is along Enterprise Road, opposite David Livingstone School.”
Maboreke said coming up with a film requires a lot of financial resources.
“Being based in USA I had to pay editors per hour, some of it could been avoided if the editors spoke or understood Shona.
“This documentary intends to showcase how Prince was a proud young Zimbabwean who completely embraced his tradition and culture musically.
“Prince mentored Pah Chihera and nephew Kindon Musarurwa, who will perform the late singer’s songs, during the screening,” he said.
The film director told this publication that he hardly knows a lot of local musicians.
“I do not know a lot of musicians (Zimbabweans) but the ones who will participate are the people who knew and worked with Prince and Pah.
“I do not make long-term plans as I believe time belongs to God and I cannot plan for Him.”
He said Prince wanted to have a culture centre and studio at his rural home in Zvimba.
“Part of the proceeds of this film will be used towards that project.
“This way we will preserve his legacy and that of his grandfather,” he said.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Pah Chihera.
“For the last phase of his career, Sekuru Prince dedicated it to travelling the world, exchanging cultures.
“He took his time using his talent to teach people of different worlds our African culture in music and dance.
“Saturday the 20th at Jason Mpepho Theatre, we will have a chance to walk the path he walked and to proudly be a part of this journey,” she said.
Some of the musicians expected to grace the event include Diana ‘Mangwenya’ Samkange, Suluman Chimbetu, Derrick Mpofu, Terry Africa, Progress Chipfumo and Pah Chihera.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter