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Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Acting Entertainment Editor
Like old wine, they have indeed matured.
Everything from discography, to voice projection, dressing and presentation, ZimPraise choir is now a total package.
Their performance on Saturday at Glamis Arena, Harare, was flawless, no glitches.
Perfect! It is confirmed and can be recorded in the history of music in Zimbabwe that the popular award winning interdenominational choral group, ZimPraise, have matured and reached their peak.
In fact, they have learnt from their past mistakes and could understand the dynamics of not only singing and dancing, but hosting a well-planned concert to international standards.
So tight and solid was their performance that it would leave the best world music promoters green with envy. And, ironically, they were clad in green.
It would also be naïve and jealousy not to give thumbs up to them as they are now in the league of their own.
Grammy award bells are ringing, now it’s time for them to own and conquer the world.
The event, which coincided with the choir’s 15th anniversary, saw reputable artistes such as Minister Michael Mahendere, Mathias Mhere, Jonah Chivasa, Marbel Madondo, Eleano Makombe, Blessing Annatoria, Tawanda Midzi and Canaan Nyathi perform.
Not to be left out on the line-up was Joyous Celebration Choir from South Africa, of course they needed their own special mention as they were the guest performers.
Classic act, it was.
Well, Joyous Celebration Choir came, saw and conquered. There is much to take away from the choir’s electrifying performance, as it wowed the crowd.
Many would say both choirs — Joyous Celebration Choir and ZimPraise — did not play new music as expected, but they were still good enough through their act of taking their fans down memory lane.
It seems the Covid-19 pandemic, which affected the arts sector, was also a blessing in disguise as the organisers of the show took their time in planning the event.
The good thing was that the show was “free” and thousands of fans thronged the arena in celebrating ZimPraise’s anniversary, but above all celebrating Christ.
Those who had already purchased the publicised tickets before the concert was declared free, were elevated to the VIP area.
The crowd, especially those in the VIP area, included socialites, business personalities, celebrities, fashionistas, musicians, church leaders and diplomats.
This is not the first time ZimPraise has invaded Glamis Arena — they have filled up the venue before.
When it comes to stage work, the choir is known for its excellence in executing the art, hence no technical glitches were experience.
To sum the logistics one may just say: Sound – good. Lighting — good. Everything — perfect! Those watching at home on social media were mesmerised by the event.
The comment section was more on songstress Mellisa Makwasha, affectionately known as “Mother Advisor”, due to her antics on social media.
Those on social media were clamouring for her to be on the stage, and it caught up with the live audience which also started demanding that she graced the stage.
And when she eventually joined ZimPraise on stage, the crowd went wild.
Clad in white and gold custom-made outfit, Mellisa did not disappoint as she led the choir well, with sing-along tunes.
Seasoned gospel musician Benjamin Rupapa put up a scintillating show with his rhumba gospel aspect.
It was much of a dance fiesta now for the crowd. The ladies’ presence was felt also as Blessing Annatoria and Eleana Makombe put up entertaining performances.
Hosts, comedians Comic Pastor, Nigel Slick Maritinyu and radio personality Noxy Divine Diva, sailed through flawlessly during their presentation.
Commenting on the show, ZimPraise chief executive Joseph Madziyire said he was grateful with the support he got from fans, cooperates and sponsors.
“Saturday was nothing short of phenomenal,” he said. “A very emotional day for me. Everything went according to plan and I am grateful for all the support. The huge turnout means a lot to me.
“We are still in the game and I am happy with how we have grown despite the challenges, fights and tribulations. The DVD will be out soon and I will be happy to share it with the rest of the world.”
Online Reporter