Online Reporter
Mathew Masinge-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
DEBUTANTS Green Stars Dance Troupe secured glory for Harare after years of waiting when they won the prestigious Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national finals at the weekend.
After 14 long years, Green Stars Dance Troupe finally brought glory to the capital.
This was last achieved by Vila 1 Nyau when the competition was held at Harare Gardens.
The 16-member Harare group joins the elite club of winners – barely two years since its establishment.
They walked away US$15,000 richer.
Second-placed Guruve Arts Ensemble (Mashonaland East) earned US$10,000 while hosts Semvumba Arts took home US$7,500.
Green Stars Dance Troupe leader, Alexis Makaza, said they will use the proceeds to generate income for their members.
“We are happy that we managed to win the prestigious Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance in our first year of trying.
“We are proud that we have put Harare on the map after a long time. We will throw a big party to celebrate the win back home.
“We want to also take the opportunity to use the money to start income-generating projects so that we don’t just wait for hiring or competitions,” said Makaza.
This year’s competition also featured returning finalists, who failed to impress judges.
Among the returning groups were Guruve Arts Ensemble (Mash Central), Goromonzi Marimba Arts (Mash East), and Sekunjalo MaAfrica (Bulawayo).
Sponsors, Delta Corporation were happy with the grand finale at Mutare Showgrounds.
“Congratulations to Harare for winning the grand prize, we pride ourselves in this competition that has lived for many years.
“Our consumers have also been supportive throughout the campaign and we look forward to another exciting edition next year,” said Delta Corporation marketing director Irimayi Muzorewa.
The event also features heavyweights Jah Prayzah and Alick Macheso and Enzo Ishall.
Enzo Ishall, who was first on stage, put up an energetic act despite coming from burying a relative in Mutare.
Jah Prayzah powered his act with hits from his latest album – ‘‘Ndini Mukudzeyi’’.
He performed new songs, including Ruzhowa and Necessary, in front of a packed crowd.
Sungura kingpin, Alick Macheso, closed the show with a trademark fine and energetic show.
