Shoko Festival preps take off

Peter Tanyanyiwa Arts Correspondent
The sixth edition of urban culture platform, the Shoko Festival is here and artists are invited to apply for this year’s showcase. Applicants can submit their material on the Shoko Festival website and the deadline is May 20, 2016. Invitation is directed to talented poets, singers, emcees, deejays, film makers, producers, musicians and fashion designers. Shoko Festival will be taking place from September 23 to 25 at the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences grounds and in Chitungwiza, on the last day.

Magamba Network, an establishment behind the Shoko Festival, said it is now welcoming all artists seeking recognition to take part in the 2016 edition of this festival. “To all the artists out there who are seeking the ultimate urban culture platform to showcase their skills, Shoko Festival has now opened its doors for artists to apply to the 2016 edition.

“Musicians, comedians, dancers, and spoken word artists are encouraged to submit applications as it is a great opportunity to share the stage with more established Zimbabwean and International acts. Last year’s Shoko saw the likes of Cassper Nyovest, Bucie, Tol A$$ Mo, Clive Chigubu, Junior Brown and Guspy Warrior, to name a few, gracing the stage, with around 9000 people attending the 3 day event, and it is set to be the biggest festival in Harare this year.

“Artists play a vital role in any community and it is important that we keep our festivals alive and thriving so that not only do the public get to be entertained, but we can also continually contribute to the development of our artists,” said Shoko Festival coordinator Natalie Kombe, in a statement.

Shoko Festival launched an Artist panel to ensure a smooth working experience with the artists, in the coming editions of Shoko Festival. The fifth edition of the festival was held last year, from September 24 to 26 under the theme “Hear Your City” at the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences and the Chitungwiza Community Hall at Unit L, Seke.

The festival has featured acts such as comedians, Tol A$$ Mo, Deep Fried Man and Doc Vikela and musicians Blak Twang (UK), Symbiz (Ger) and Trae Yung. Shoko Festival is Zimbabwe’s is centred on urban culture and is produced by Magamba Network.