Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Sarah Dee, a choreographer and fashion designer originally from Bulawayo and now based in Harare, has praised the strong unity among the artistes who recently performed as part of the Zimbabwe Cultural Ensemble at Expo 2025 Osaka in Japan.
The group, made up of 12 talented dancers, choreographers, and actors, delivered a captivating 40-minute musical that showcased Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.
Assembled in just two weeks by theatre director Nkululeko Dube and renowned choreographer Gibson Sarari, the ensemble featured a diverse cast of singers, poets, mbira players, and drummers.
The performers included Sinobuhle Dube, a dancer/singer from Bolamba Culture Birds in Matabeleland South; Willard Muchapondwa of the Nyaungwe Arts Ensemble (Mashonaland East); Zvido Zveva dancer Rudorwashe Sarari (Mashonaland West); actor Kasandu Asando of Mbada Ensemble (Midlands); Blessed Chakokoma, a drummer from the Imvimbi Arts Ensemble (Matabeleland North); Fidelis Tshuma, an Umkhathi Theatre dancer from Bulawayo; Nyasha Dziruni, a member of Iyasa from Bulawayo; Alexis Makaza, the Green Stars choreographer from Harare; Sarabinos Chimukwende of the Guruve Marimba Stars (Mashonaland Central); Stacey Dombodzvuku of the Elysium Dance Ensemble (Harare); and Takuwadza Matete of the Semvumba Arts Ensemble (Manicaland).
Reflecting on her return from Japan, Sarah Dee told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub that the experience was humbling and highlighted the power of unity in Zimbabwe’s arts sector.
“The experience was amazing. People often say artists are lazy, but this proved that all we need is support. The whole team nailed it and raised the flag high. It’s an honour to have been selected among the 12, not because I am the best, but on merit, and it was simply my time to shine alongside others. I learnt a lot,” she said.
“Representing the country is everyone’s dream, and it was a dream come true. I thank the team that recognised my efforts and talents, NACZ, the Arts Ministry, Zimtrade, and my nation as a whole. God and my ancestors made it possible for my name to be mentioned. The 21-hour journey was the longest I have ever flown, but it was worth it. I thank God for everything,” Sarah Dee added. – Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire
