Talented Actors and Singers Amalgamated Group makes return after 10-year hiatus

Talented Actors and Singers Amalgamated (TASA), is set to make a triumphant return to the arts scene after a decade-long hiatus.

The group, known for its vibrant theatre stage performances encompassing drama, music, acting, dance and poetry, was formed in March 1992.

Now, after 32 years of existence, TASA is poised to reinvigorate the arts and provide a platform for young talent in the community.

“We have been in existence for 32 years this year, however, due to the economic situation we took a long break and we had to regroup so we can be able to bring youngsters back into arts as a way of keeping them off drugs, child prostitution, alcoholism and other things,” said Rodney Sipho Sibanda, the chairperson of TASA.

TASA has a rich history of participation in various projects and hosting their own festivals, leaving an indelible mark on the arts scene in Bulawayo.

Their performances in local schools, halls and youth centres have showcased diverse productions, including works like “Village 4,” “The Result,” and “The Passage of Time.”

“TASA has taken part in many projects during our youth days such as Umkhosi wabatsha which was hosted by Amakhosi, LinkFest and Zwakala Festival held at Market Theatre Laboratories in South Africa. We have hosted festivals of our own like theatre week, and the Modelling Week Festival which were all held at Macdonald Hall in Mzilikazi,” he said.

In an interview with Saturday Leisure, Sibanda highlighted TASA’s extensive history of involvement in various projects, including collaborations with other arts organisations.

“We are planning an annual arts festival called ‘Umdlalo Wabantu Arts Festival 2024.’ It’s going to be a festival with a host of activities lined up. We will be having stage drama performances, empowerment workshops, exhibition stalls for our own local entrepreneurs from around Zimbabwe, fanfare. It’s a family-oriented festival that will run for a week,” shared Sibanda.

“The theme for this year will be ‘Fighting hunger in our communities through arts’. It’s meant mostly for the less-privileged in our communities.

Performances shall be based on that theme and the workshops are going to be facilitated by different professionals that will empower those under-privileged with knowledge on how to be self-sustainable. The exhibitors will be showcasing and selling their products at the same time sharing their expertise with our communities,” said Sibanda.

TASA’s impact extends beyond the stage, with a membership of 20 individuals spread across Zimbabwe, South Africa and the UK. The organisation has established a self-sponsored fund to support the elderly, child-headed families and the disabled with food hampers, embodying their commitment to community welfare.

“We have made many collaborations in the past with the likes of Savuka Arts Ensemble, Sadalala just to name a few,” added Sibanda.

Looking ahead, TASA aims to establish a cultural centre in Mzilikazi, serving as a hub for rehabilitation, youth forums, arts management and educational programs. Additionally, the organisation is actively seeking funds for the upcoming festival and is in the process of transitioning to a new base at Macdonald Hall, signalling a new chapter in their journey.

“It has always been our goal and wish to create a cultural centre in Mzilikazi. A centre for rehabilitation, youth forums, arts management, social and educational programmes, individual development courses in arts, for example script writing, acting, singing and more,” he said.

The return of TASA after a decade-long hiatus marks a significant moment for the arts community in Bulawayo, promising a revival of creativity, collaboration and community engagement.