adminONLY two musical groups – Memo and The Antiques and Assegai Crew – will represent Mutare District at this year’s edition of the Chimanimani Arts Festival to be held in the mountainous area of Chimanimani from next Friday to Sunday.
The two groups in separate interviews promised to raise Mutare flag high when they rub shoulders with seasoned performers such as Oliver “Samanyanga” Mtukudzi, who is expected to be the main attraction.
Ragga Manyika group Assegai Crew has performed at previous editions of the festival before.
The festival has reached its 14th edition of bringing together people from different corners of Chimanimani District, the nation and the world, to experience the unity of purpose that prevails at its events in the scenic environment of the tourist village.
It has also successfully managed to promote and develop amateur performers through interaction with seasoned local and international performers.
“The festival came at a time we are riding high with our comeback album. We have been there before and every year we offer something new and better. We are looking forward to staging memorable performances and preach the word of love, unity and harmony through the Ragga manyika beats. Morale in the camp is fantastic, my new boys are raring to go and exhibit their talent to the whole world,” said band leader, drummer and senior member of the original band that was formed in the mid-90s, Silas Makumbe.
Jazz diva Memo Madekurozva, the carver of the wonder single Mutimawako, is a new kid on the block, but is a love ballad specialist par excellence. She is expected to put a unique flair at the festival.
“My music appeals to all age groups. Being part of this year’s edition is such an honour. We feel so excited. We will do our best. Fans should expect to hear some new stuff. They should also look forward to having a polished presentation from the Antiques,” she said.
The festival is running under the theme: “Together we can”.
Deputy Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Supa Mandiwanzira, who is expected to grace the event as the guest of honour, was among several guests who attended the festival launch on July 22 at Selous Hotel in Harare.
The official opening will be held at Chimanimani Hotel next Friday.
Other groups expected to perform are Joshua Sako, Sabhuku Vharazipi, Ba Shupi, The Eastern Gospel, Aleck Muchayi & Ngangu Band, Daniel Mirisi and The Lion of Judah, and the Radiation, Shorai Chipungurana and Orchestra Warura Band, Mazwi Mbira Crew, Batanai Unite Marimba Ensemble, Chivaraidze and Garawiro, among other groups.
Online Reporter