Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu,Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Today, the Bulawayo Theatre will host the local debut of Listen, Carmen Hwarari’s acclaimed album and live show, filled with soulful rhythms and rich stories.
This performance will be more than just a tour stop; as it will serve as a homecoming for Hwarari, the celebrated Zimbabwean contemporary traditional musician who proudly hails from the City of Kings.
Sharing the stage with her will be some of Zimbabwe’s finest talents, veteran Afro-fusion songstress Sibusiswe “Busi” Ncube, versatile crooner Derrick Mpofu, and the internationally celebrated dance and theatre ensemble Inkululeko Yabatsha School of Arts (Iyasa). Together, they promise an unforgettable evening that blends music, dance, poetry, and storytelling into a celebration of shared heritage.
First unveiled in Harare in December 2023, Listen has already earned cross-border acclaim. In 2024, it captivated audiences at the BICC Auditorium in Lilongwe, Malawi, in a showcase supported by NBS Bank Malawi and featuring poet Albert Nyathi, Mpofu, and Iyasa.
But tonight’s show carries special weight. For Hwarari, bringing Listen to Bulawayo is both personal and cultural.
“Listen has already touched hearts in Harare and Malawi, connecting audiences with our shared African heritage in a way that feels both personal and universal. Bringing it to Bulawayo, my hometown, is deeply meaningful to me. It’s a homecoming, a celebration of where I grew up, and a tribute to the rich cultures that have shaped my journey. “I invite everyone to join us for this unique family show, filled with music, dance, poetry, and stories that celebrate who we are,” she said.
The production draws on Hwarari’s 11-track album, weaving together soul-stirring pieces like Ngcwele, Broken Glass, and Stango with collaborative works such as Ma Africa (featuring Albert Nyathi) and Arise Africa (with Derrick Mpofu). Each song forms part of a broader artistic journey, one that champions healing, wellness, and mental health awareness while telling stories of resilience, triumph, and the diverse African experience.
Iyasa director Nkululeko Dube promised an unmissable performance: “Get ready for a spectacular family show at Bulawayo Theatre this Thursday. This unforgettable musical extravaganza brings together three generations of talented artistes, the legendary Busi Ncube, the phenomenal Carmen Hwarari, and the current sensation Iyasa, including our new 2K generation. This show promises to inspire and delight audiences of all ages, celebrating the rich heritage of our arts scene. People mustn’t miss out on this incredible experience as it’s sure to be a show to remember!”
Busi Ncube’s return to the Bulawayo stage is also significant, having last performed in the city in 2023 after a long absence from the local scene during her years in the diaspora.
– Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
