Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
HARARE’s showbiz landscape faces a rare scheduling clash on February 28.
The National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) will take place at the Harare International Conference Centre.
On the same night, American rapper Rick Ross and Nigerian star Omah Lay are set to perform at the Hippodrome in Braeside.
The two big events have triggered debate among arts fans with many questioning whether they will compete for the same audience or attract entirely different crowds.
Traditionally, NAMA draw a formal audience that includes industry professionals, corporate sponsors, policymakers and artists celebrating excellence across theatre, music, film and literature.
The ceremony is widely regarded as the country’s premier cultural recognition platform.
The Rick Ross and Omah Lay concert is expected to pull a younger more party-driven crowd eager for the international individual performances.
Takura, Shashl, Freeman HKD, Feli Nandi, ExQ, Tamy Moyo, and Saintfloew will be part of the line up as supporting acts.
Last time when Rick Ross came to Zimbabwe, the show attracted a high-profile audience which included business people, socialites and other celebrities.
Usually when the NAMA awards are happening there will be no other show in Harare.
However, that I set to change this year.
Running under the theme “Fearless Creativity,” Ministers Ellard and Sharon Cherayi , Vabati VaJehova, Sku, Snowy Natasha Mlalazi, Dorcus Moyo, Cleo Arie and Lil Eliana will hold it down for the gospel session.
Paddington Chiwashira will deliver the hit song “Manhanga Matete” on stage.
Baba Harare will also be performing for the jiti family alongside the “Weru” hit maker Sekuru Gudo.
Plaxedes Wenyika, Alexio Kawara, BaShupi and Dino Mudondo will hold the urban groove part.
The Chillspot family, Freeman HKD and Junior Spragga will oversee the dancehall side.
Bling 4, Runner Rulez, Melyssa, Sane Wav, Young Gemini, Fab G, and Shone the young stars will be cover the RnB and Hip-hop genre.
The big question is – Can NAMA overshadow Rick Ross?
What is not in doubt is that the simultaneous events present a significant test for NAMA influence and relevance in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.
While the awards ceremony carries cultural prestige and long-standing tradition, younger audiences are increasingly gravitating towards global pop culture experiences.
Most fans suggest that strong local performances, compelling nominees and vibrant stage production could help NAMA maintain its loyal following despite the competition.
