adminMary Doma and Nyasha Weluzani
Alex Sports Club in Milton Park will this year play host to Shoko Festival slated for September 25-28 under the theme “Re-inspire to Re-imagine”. “This will be our biggest year yet and the venue will be transformed into a dynamic festive centre where we plan to re-design it in a way that will excite the audience” said Sam Monro aka Comrade Fatso, who is the festival director.
He said over the years the festival has seen growth in attendance since its inception when it was held at Alliance Française before it was moved to Waterwhirld and now it goes to Alex Sports Club.
The headlining acts are singer Nneka from Germany, South African comedian Loyiso Gola, stand-up comedian Buddy Wakefield from the United States, the Layabouts from the United Kingdom, and Chester Missing, another South African.
Zimbabwe will be represented by sensational headline acts such as Netsayi, Tehn Diamond, Ammara Brown, Jason Leroux, DJs Rax and Raydizz and BaShupi.
“Peace In Da Hood”, is a music concert which is held at the end of the festival.
This year it will be held in Chitungwiza, where both local and international artistes will perform.
Acts to be showcased include break dancing as well as live graffiti.
“‘Peace In Da Hood’ is a beautiful way to end Shoko. It will be a positive event in the vibrant community of Chitungwiza.
“You do not want to miss it,” said Cde Fatso.
Natalie Kombe, Shoko Festival co-ordinator said the fête will incorporate a new programme called Schools Corner, where schools will be participating in different artistic levels.
In 2013 the concert brought out a multiracial crowd and this year the fête promises to be bigger with strong emphasis on positive collaborations between local and international artistes.
Shoko is Zimbabwe’s fastest growing international festival and has established itself as a major event on Zimbabwe’s annual arts calendar.
The festival is set to run for four days, involving local and international artistes.
Online Reporter