Chronicle Editor
Mthabisi Tshuma, Showbiz Correspondent
THE arts sector has since the Covid-19 outbreak been in limbo with event organisers still reeling in debts from pre-payments to artistes on holding shows.
Last week, public gatherings not exceeding 100 people were cleared to resume after Government relaxed lockdown regulations from Level Four to Level Two.
President Mnangagwa made the announcement in an address to the nation as part of moves to revive the economy.
However, the arts sector has not been given the greenlight to hold shows with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), yet to put guidelines of the allowance of musical shows.
In an interview yesterday, NACZ communication and marketing manager, Rodney Ruwende said they are still guided by the recent relaxation measures and awaiting final confirmation by President Mnangagwa as per the lockdown regulations.
“As per the norm of the lockdown announcements since the start of Covid-19, musical shows have been highlighted in terms when there are allowed to open.
“In that manner, musical shows are closed and we are awaiting announcement by President Mnangagwa to clarify that or if not by Minister of Sports, Arts and Recreation to announce(Kirsty Coventry),” said Ruwende .
Director of 3D Events, a show promoting agency, Mduduzi “Mdu” Mdlongwa said they are pleading with Government to allow shows so as to revive the creative sector economy.
“When Covid-19 struck, we had shows that were lined up and we even paid deposits for artistes who cannot even repay because they are also in a difficult time to sustain their lives.
“Achieving herd immunity of the vaccination stage relies on every sector to play their part and as promoters we are saying can they allow us to hold shows even with minimum numbers only for vaccinated patrons,” said Mdlongwa.
— @mthabisi_mthire
Online Reporter