Zim: Nyanga Arts Festival unveils dates and initial line-up

An initiative of Nhimbe Trust, Nyanga Arts Festival seeks to enhance the tourism and leisure industry in Nyanga by amplifying its eco-friendliness through arts, culture and heritage.

The first batch of confirmed artists include Vuyo Brown and Imvelo, a new collaboration comprising some of Bulawayo’s most experienced and accomplished singers and dancers, including Prince Nleya (bass), Mehluli Dube (percussion), Shekinah Ndlovu (guitar), Erastus Nleya (drums), Nesbert Qongo (saxophone) and Jacob Ngorima (keys).

Other artists who are part of the Imvelo project include Prince Joel Nyoni (keys), Thandy Dhlana (lead vocals and dance), Charles Banda (lead vocals and dance), Laura Ngwenya (vocals), Dorcas Ngwenya (vocals and dance), Cheryl Mabaya (vocals and dance), Lyndah Sithole (vocals and dance) and Brilliant Sithole (vocals and dance). More artists will be announced in due course.

“The most trending local musicians will provide a fun-filled performance that has never been experienced before at Nyanga Arts Festival,” festival director Josh Nyapimbi said, adding that this year’s festival will be distinct from previous editions.

“As the organisers, we have gained a deeper understanding of the local needs and expectations regarding festival programming. We have also assessed our own capabilities and those of our partners, ensuring that we can deliver high-quality programming that meets the community’s expectations,” he said.

Nyanga Arts Festiva 2024 will be graced by traditional leaders, including Chief Dakamela who will launch the event. His entourage will perform traditional praise poetry, adding to the rich cultural heritage of the occasion. Additionally, they will actively participate in the subsequent programme, further enriching the festival experience.

Apart from celebrating the arts, artistic collaborations and cultural exchanges, the festival will provide a platform for enhancing environmental awareness, the organisers said.