adminRutendo Kanogoiwa and Bruce Ndlovu Showbiz Reporters
The story of the Bulawayo arts scene is not complete without mention of the various cultural arts groups whose works on stage have gone a long way in not only putting the city on the map worldwide, but preserving some of the country’s long held traditions.If one was to write a book on the history and evolution of the city’s arts scene, a chapter or few would have to be dedicated to Siyaya Arts. Founded in the 80s in the city’s traditional hotbed of talent and the birthplace of many superstars, Makokoba suburb, Siyaya has grown from its humble beginnings to become one of the country’s most respected and successful arts groups.
Led by Intwasa choreographer — Saimon “Mambazo” Phiri, the group which is celebrating its 25th anniversary next week, has grown rapidly in stature since its days as NASA, a moniker they ditched on their 10th anniversary, becoming a globetrotting phenomenon that is a familiar sight on the world’s stages.
“We’ve a lot to celebrate and our silver jubilee is just the beginning of even better productions to come. We’ve learnt a lot during our 25 years of working together and have become one family. Our achievements deserve to be celebrated,” Mambazo said.
He said the group had organised an eight-month celebration which would see them holding fundraising dinners, staging shows at the Stanley Square hall and collaborating with an American band among other activities. The group will launch their Siyaya25 DVD documentary at the Bulawayo Theatre this month. The production is comprised of 25 artistes who will go on a tour of Europe in August.
While many complain of the decline in African cultural awareness from the country’s youth who find artistic inspiration from foreign modes of artistic expression, Siyaya has gone the opposite route, exporting the country’s traditional forms of performance to stages around the globe.
The group which is defined by a team ethic that sees them transform into one cohesive and rhythmic unit on stage has brilliant individuals that rarely grab the headlines.
Chronicle Showbiz caught up with four of the group’s members while they were in action during practice at Stanley Square and found out what makes them tick.
Kelvin “Skoro” Sibanda
One would expect an artiste who lives a luxurious life, exhibiting his skills in some of the world’s best arts arenas to maintain similar standards when he comes back home. For 29-year-old Skoro, however,, this is not the case, as he has not forgotten his humble beginnings, easily swapping the comfort of first class plane rides for his trusted old bicycle when he sets foot in the City of Kings.
Skoro, a dancer known as the pastor of the group, has been with Siyaya for eight years. He is the group’s moral compass, often quoting Bible scriptures when he feels the group needs religious guidance.
“I read Thessalonians 4 vs. 11 everyday as it’s a verse which has kept me going as a member of Siyaya,” said Skoro.
A family man with two children, Skoro’s ultimate dream is to establish a school of arts for the young. A fan of pool, darts and soccer, Skoro is not quite an eventful person and spends his free time at home or church with his family.
Sonia Mbaya
For a woman blessed with a big and imposing frame, Sonia Mbaya, a female dancer has surprised many with her energetic and magnetic showings on stage.
The arts is a not an unfamiliar stomping ground for the former Iyasa veteran, who started out in the arts while she was still in Primary School.
Forsaking her academic studies after her O-Levels for her calling in the arts, Mbaya is adamant she made the right choice.
“I had an option to continue with my studies but I chose the arts as it’s what I love doing the most and something that I believe I’m good at.”
Quizzed what keeps her batteries charged when away on tours, the voluptuous performer says she’s not the kind to be troubled by homesickness.
“When I know I’m going on tour, my mind automatically blocks all things and I tell myself it’s time to work. I love socialising so making new friends is not a challenge. As long as I talk to my parents a few times a week and go sightseeing with friends, everything is good,” she said.
An aspiring business mogul, Sonia is a budding entrepreneur in her own right, selling clothes and phones during her spare time.
“I never had the opportunity to misuse my income as I always thought of upgrading my family as we’re not that well up. Remembering that I had responsibilities at home kept me grounded at all times,” she said.
Shepherde ‘Zimba’ Luwis
A 16-year veteran in the group, Zimba is one of the group’s longest serving sons, having joined when it was still known as NASA.
“I started travelling with the group when I was still single so I really had no major responsibilities apart from family. During the free time I got on tour I’d have alcohol and visit a few places just to relax and unwind,” he said.
The 31-year-old said his love for the arts and the excitement that he attains while he struts his stuff on stage is what keeps him going.
“People abroad love and appreciate arts. Every time we perform the looks on their faces are priceless and that is more than enough motivation for me as it shows what we’re doing is being appreciated,” he said.
With the clock ticking, Zimba is yet to decide on his future plans, although he has wisely invested some of his rich pickings, upgrading their family home among other developments.
Siphiwe Dube
A multi-talented singer from Mabuthweni suburb, Siphiwe is a natural artiste as besides her elegant voice, she is also adept at playing the mbira. Like other members in the group, she has been in the arts since her childhood, joining Siyaya in 2004.
Although she is naturally gifted as an artiste, she acknowledges that Siyaya’s standards as a group are high and one has to consistently punch above their weight in order to keep up with the rest of the pack.
“When we’re on tour, once we get into that Siyaya van, one definitely changes gear as they know they’re getting down to serious business,” she said.
Just like any other group, Siyaya has had its ups and downs and days when morale in the group would be low.
Many artistes have joined and left the group due to personal commitments, indiscipline and marriage.
Most of the female members, if not all, are not yet married and are fortunate enough to have partners who understand the arts business and demands which come with the job.
Londile Moyo
Online Reporter