Online Reporter
Trust Khosa,
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
NYAU dancers have continued their reign in the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance competition with Undi Gure emerging as the winners at the Midlands provincial finals, held last weekend in Gweru.
As a result of their triumph, Undi Gure will now represent their province in the national finals, with their sights set on the grand prize of US$15000.
The second and third-place finalists will receive US$10000 and US$7500.
It should be noted that Nyau dancers have consistently gone above and beyond to showcase their unique culture, with Undi Gure being a prime example.
After narrowly missing out on the opportunity to represent Midlands province last year, Undi Gure remained focused and successfully secured the top spot this time around.
In the previous year’s competition, Mkango Malawi Nyau Club from Midlands took first place, followed by Undi Gure in second place, and Pasichigare Kandodo in third place.
National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) communications and public relations officer, Agga Nyabinde, expressed their appreciation for the Nyau dancers and their evident pride in their culture.
“The dominance of Nyau dancers in this competition demonstrates how deeply proud these dancers are of their heritage,” Nyabinde stated.
“If you observe closely, it’s clear that it’s their way of life, something they embody every day. You can easily see that dancing has become their lifestyle.”Nyabinde added:
“As an association representing artists, we are proud of them because they are genuinely pursuing their passion.
“I wish other traditional groups could emulate them. It’s unfortunate that some traditional groups only come together when there’s a competition.
“You wouldn’t even recognise them as dancers if you met them on the streets. However, with the Gure dancers, it’s easy to identify them because they are so distinct.”
Meanwhile, provincial finals are now in full throttle.
The competition now moves to Mutare, where the winners will be crowned at Muchina Muhombe Bar on May 24.
Ten groups from Manicaland will compete for the opportunity to represent their province.
Consolation prizes will be awarded to all participating groups, with the top three receiving significant rewards.
Coinciding with Culture Month celebrations, the Mutare show presents a prime opportunity for traditional dancers in Manicaland to showcase their rich heritage.
On May 31, Matabeleland North will select its champions at Lwendulu Beerhall in Hwange, while Mashonaland West will crown its winners at EMM Leisure Sports Bar in Banket on the same day (May 31).
The following week, on June 7, Masvingo will host its competition at Masiza Nengere in Chiredzi.
The search for the Mashonaland East representative will take place on June 14 at Padhana Sports Bar in Mutoko. The representative for Matabeleland South will also be selected on June 14 at Malaxo Beerhall in Beitbridge. In Harare, Hurudza Beer Hall in Mabvuku will host its provincial finals on June 24, while the Manor Hotel will host the Bulawayo finals on the same day.
Tipaz Night Club in Shamva will host the Mashonaland Central finals on July 5th.
