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GET DOWN . . . Oliver Mtukudzi signed off with “Tozeza”, a favourite of many

Jonathan Mbiriyamveka recently in Chimanimani
The two-day Chimanimani Arts Festival ended on a high note on Saturday with over 5 000 strong crowd being treated to a mixed bag of theatre, film and music.
Despite the chilly weather which is common in the eastern border town, thousands of people including those from as far as Wengezi, Chipinge and the surrounding areas, came to consume Zimbabwean art and cultural products.

As is the norm, business was brisk for the community and the creative industry as there was an array of artefacts, paraphernalia and food to indulge in. And the pricing was reasonable, with an English breakfast going for at least US$1 while a plate of sadza and stew plus vegetables, almost a staple, was also going for just US$1.

Several non-governmental organisations and corporates enjoyed brisk business and used the platform for different activations.

Hala Chimanimani, which is just a spitting distance from the main stage, played host to a number of visitors as well as artistes who came from Harare.

There were also stampedes as the community jostled to grab whatever what was there to serve as a reminder of this once in a year fete.

Highlights include film screenings in the community hall while somewhere the main stage things were happening like no man’s business.

The music programme is always one that draws the multitude of fans and no doubt, this year’s performing line-up was stellar than before. Superstar Oliver Mtukudzi and the Black Spirits wowed the revellers with a power play of songs that include “Mutserendende”, “Watitsvata”, “Neria” and “Muchatuta” off the Neria soundtrack made the playlist. Typical of Tuku, he signed off with “Tozeza”, a favourite of many.

Sadly The Blacks Spirits — made up of Enock Piroro on bass, Munyaradzi Viya on keyboards and Sam Mataure on drums — left the crowd still wanting more.

However, more was still to come including the newbie Memory Madekurozva from Mutare, who held her own, playing cover versions of the late greats including Pied Pipers and Simon Chimbetu’s Samatenga. The contemporary singer did her thing and excited the crowd both young and old.

The Lion of Juda and Mazwi Embira, based in Chimanimani, proved that talent knows no boundaries after putting up flawless acts.

BaShupi had the crowd on its feet during his set. When BaShupi took to the stage clad in an all-white outfit, energy was on and off the stage.

When it comes to stage work, BaShupi leaves nothing to chance. He came prepared and effortlessly delivered a great show.

Also not to be outdone was Sniper Storm aka The General, who left lasting impressions among his youthful following.

It was a pity that organisers underestimated the impact of Zim-dancehall since fans wanted to see the likes of Soul Jah Love, Ras Pompy, Winky D, Shinsoman, Tocky Vibes, Don Gaga and Seh Calaz, to mention a few.

Chido Musasiwa-Gutu, the festival director, was pleased with attendance as well as the performances.

“I think we had a great festival and this year we had a bigger audience compared to last year. We have also noted that people wanted to see more Zim-dancehall acts and these are some of the things that we are going to work on next year,” she said.