Season of stillness: How creatives are spending Easter

Mbulelo Mpofu/Gift Moyo

For many, Easter is defined by the solemnity of the cross and the quiet stillness of prayer, marking one of the most sacred moments on the religious calendar. For others, it offers a cherished break from routine, a time for colourful egg hunts, long-overdue family reunions, and the simple joy of shared meals.

Yet for the heartbeat of the city, its artistes, designers, and performers, Easter signals a rare pause in the relentless rhythm of creation.

For several artistes, the “holiday” which begins today, is less about leisure and more about spiritual realignment.

Yolanda Ngwenya, the visionary designer behind the fashion brand Bhakar, is prioritising mental and spiritual health.

“During the Easter weekend, I’ll be resting, resting from the pressure and the stress of work. I’ll also go to church for revival and a much-needed refreshing and refilling,” said Ngwenya.

Similarly, South Africa-based content creator Aljoy Chik has shifted his plans from public festivities to private devotion. Despite a change in travel plans, he views the weekend as a providential opportunity.

“I was meant to attend Imiklomelo KaDakamela, but due to financial constraints, I won’t be able to make it this time. It’s not a major setback, though. I’ll be there next year.

“This Easter, I’ll be spending time in prayer after being invited to a church. I was hesitant at first, but I’ve since realised it’s the congregation I’ve always wanted to be part of,” Chik Aljoy said.

While some retreat, others find that the holiday season brings a different kind of work. Prince Sivalo, the culinary force behind Magriza Made Me Cook YouTube channel, will be at the centre of the cultural buzz at the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Cultural Festival taking place during the Easter period in Nkayi.

“This weekend, I’ll be at the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Cultural Festival, where I’m part of the team of chefs preparing traditional meals for guests. I’ll be bringing the essence of isintu, so I expect to have my hands full as I prepare a variety of dishes for people to enjoy throughout the festival,” Sivalo said.

Renowned playwright Thabani Hilary Moyo is striking a balance between the stage and life on the road. Following the restructuring of the Centre for Talent Development (CTD), he remains engaged in rehearsals while preparing for upcoming commitments in Masvingo.

“For CTD, we’ll be in the rehearsal room working on a new production, Umdumo Wezinkondlo. I’ll also set aside time on Saturday to be with family and friends, where we’ll meet over a braai and catch up,” he said.

“On Sunday, I’ll be heading to Masvingo for a two-week programme focused on curriculum development and theatre.”

Even the city’s funny man, Frank Chirisa, is trading punch lines for purpose this weekend, stepping away from the comedy stage for more formal duties.

“This Saturday and Sunday, I’ll be ushering at a church conference in Nkulumane, where my pastor will be preaching. On Monday, I’ll be serving as MC at a wedding,” Chirisa said.

For those living abroad or working behind the scenes, Easter offers a chance to step out of the spotlight. South Africa-based scriptwriter Yolanda Ncube, known for her work with Chrispen Nyathi, Joyful Ncube, and Chik Aljoy, sees the holiday as a narrative pause.

“As a writer, Easter feels like a quiet scene between chapters, soft, intentional, and full of meaning. I’ll be spending it with loved ones, drawing inspiration from the stillness, the conversations, and the small moments that often become the most powerful stories,” she said.

For others, the break is a mandatory period of recovery. UK-based lighting designer Mildred Moyo is embracing a “lazy Easter” by necessity.

“I’ve been unwell for some time now, and I’ve been ordered to relax. So, I haven’t been going to work for the past three weeks, and this Easter holiday, I’m taking things slow as I recuperate,” she shared.

Perhaps the most literal “new beginning” belongs to award-winning musician Edith WeUtonga, whose Easter is unfolding amid the chaos and charm of a family move.

“We’ve just moved house and are settling into our new place. The furniture hasn’t arrived yet, so we’re enjoying dancing and sliding around the living room. Everyone is on a break at the moment, and we’ll be heading away next week,” she said.

Whether in a busy festival kitchen, a quiet prayer room, or a new living space, the city’s creatives are showing that Easter is simply a time to find what the soul needs most.