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Arts Reporter
In response to the shrinking performance poetry space as a result of Covid-19 induced lockdowns, community rooted Action Hub has continued providing a platform for poets to continue engaging with both local and international audiences online.

The hub situated at in the heart of Gazaland in Highfield, indulges poetry lovers with a weekly dose through Poetry Pot Wednesday and the monthly Bira reNhetembo, all curated by Edzai Isu Trust.

Today Action Hub will host its ninth Bira reNhetembo in commemoration of the International Day of Friendship since the outbreak of Covid-19 last year.

Edzai Isu creative director Tafadzwa Muzondo aka Nyanduri Nyandoro said the platforms strive to grow performance poetry.

“This comes in the form of a monthly Bira reNhetembo – an online show of live poetry and acoustic music on topical developmental and social issues hosted by seasoned poet Shoes Lambada and young poet Cynthia Mapando better known as Blackbird,” said Muzondo.

“During the previous eight editions of Bira reNhetembo, we have featured both established and upcoming artists including spoken word artistes such as Edgar Langeveldt, Chirikure Chirikure, Kadijah, Ally Black Tears, Chioneso, Manikongo, Da Voice, Mutumwa Pavi, Mambo

Guramatunhu, Sekuru Soro, Nyanduri Nyandoro, Sky Daddy, Sentimental, Mr Loyal and Hamilton, among others.

“Musicians such as Progress Chipfumo, Ammi Jamanda, Sithabile Mahubaba aka Sta, Tru Bantu, Maestro Mhanda and Pachoto Girls among others have also came in to complement the poets with their acoustic music.”

Today’s show which will be broadcast through Action Hub’s Facebook page features a gender balanced lined up of poets who include Sentimental, Mr Loyal, Hamilton and Fadzai Katanda with vocalist and mbira player Sta as the guest acoustic musician.

It will, as usual be co-hosted by Shoes Lambada and Blackbird.

“Action Hub has been resilient in affording poets including myself the platform to continue engaging with local and global audiences online and we are getting there slow but sure.

“The feedback we have received has been warm and we look forward to increased audiences as we strive to keep poetry alive in these trying times. Covid-19 has taught us to be creative and this strategy is working so well in keeping our audiences engaged” said Shoes Lambada.

Action Hub has been working with different partners to make sure performers and the production crew are safe from contracting Covid-19.

“We are grateful for the support from HIVOS which affords us capacity periodically disinfect the hub, provide face masks, sanitizers and temperature screening as we strive to continue our creative work following preventive measures,” said Edzai Isu executive director O’Brien Makore.

“The shows do not attract many artists but solo acts like poets and musicians who take turns to record, in a safe environment with physical distancing between them and they are always masked up.

The show is recorded by a crew from r Community Media founded by veteran actor and film maker Obrian Mudyiwenyama.