Online Reporter
Mathew Masinge
MUFAKOSE-BASED ensemble, Shingayi Dance Group, have advanced to the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival finals for a record sixth time.
The group secured their spot at Werras Park in Glen View 1 after beating nine other contestants.
For their efforts, the 15-member group walked away with US$2,500 for showcasing the mbakumba dance.
Pasichigare and Karingezuva came second and third.The two groups took home US$1,500 and US$1,000 respectively. In an interview, Shingayi Dance Group artistic director, Musa Lejala, said this was another big moment for them. “I am happy that we won the ticket to represent Harare at the Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival national finals.
“We have won this ticket for a record sixth time and I want to thank the organisers, Delta Corporation, the National Arts Council (NAC) of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA) for giving us this platform for us to shine,” said Lejala. Lejala said they have set their eyes on the grand finale.
“We hope to finally work our magic to win the national title. Everyone is ready and we will put our lives on the line for a shot at the prestigious title next month,” he said. ZNTDA president, Kennedy Kachuruka, praised local cultural groups for being custodians of Zimbabwe’s heritage. “I am impressed by the level of competition showcased so far at the provincial level.
“We also continue to thank Delta Corporation for their sponsorship that has changed the shape and level of competition among these cultural dance groups,” said Kachuruka.
To date, six groups have won tickets for a place at the finals set for July 11.
Bulawayo will be represented by Ezemnyama Arts Ensemble while MUSA will carry the hopes for Masvingo province.
Other groups include Dzimbahwe Nengoma (Mashonaland Central), Bolamba Culture Birds (Matabeleland South) and Marondera Gure (Mashonaland East).
The premier cultural dance competition heads to Matabeleland North, Victoria Falls’ Tavern Beerhall, on Saturday.
The last round of provincial finals will be held on June 20 in Manicaland, at Mandel Bar in Watsomba, Nyanga.
On the same day, the Midlands provincial finals will be held at Patsime Tavern in Mbizo 7, Kwekwe.
