adminThe Samba Night was cancelled because the Brazilian samba dancers have been instructed by their government to prepare for the Fifa Confederation Cup starting on June 15. Zimbabwe Tourism Authority spokesperson Sugar Chagonda confirmed receiving communication to that effect from Brazil.
“Our contact person Tatiana Bozzo said all the Samba dancers in Brazil have been instructed to start preparing for the Confederation Cup, so there is nothing we can do. As the authority we equally share the disappointment with the fans that were bracing for the event,” he said.
Chagonda said the dancers have indicated willingness to work with ZTA in the future.
“All hope is not lost as we can invite them for next year’s event. It’s only that they have to prepare for an equally important national event in their country,” he said.
The cancellation of the Samba Night is a big blow to the organisers of the Zimbabwe International Carnival as it was one of the major highlights of the carnival.
However, expectations remain high that the ZTA planned carnival will ignite a citizenry pride with an array of performances that include a street parade, street parties and gigs.
Fans are looking forward to experiencing street parades similar to the ones held in Seychelles, Mauritius and Brazil where the bikini-clad samba dancers perform.
The Miss Carnival pageant held last Friday lived up to its billing as many people braved the cold weather to witness the crowning of Dananai Chipunza as the inaugural Miss Carnival.
The Gospel Carnival Show that was held at Glamis Stadium on Saturday was poorly attended because of rain. Some of the artistes billed to perform – Charles Charamba and Fungisai Mashavave – did not see action and were only told that they would perform on a musical concert scheduled for this Saturday.
Online Reporter