Rarely does Zimbabwe offer such an exciting event fit for the young and the old, the rich and the poor. Thousands of people from all walks of life are expected to line the streets for what is probably the best entertainment showcase of the year.
Last year the carnival, a celebration of the arts and culture of the international community, was a attracted over 15,000 people. The public relations manager of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, Sugar Chagonda, says this year they are expecting double that figure.
The event will also include a Jazz Night, while Dancehall lovers will have their share and traditional music goers will be treated to their own night.
The four kilometre Carnival Street Party from Africa Unity Square via Jason Moyo to the Glamis Arena will have the best from Zimbabwe on parade as well as the best from Sweden, Trinidad and Tobago, Egypt, Namibia, Botswana, Nigeria, the United Kingdom, Angola, Kenya, South Africa, Cuba, Indonesia, Italy, Jamaica, and Japan.
All the various musical forms that make up the local music scene – jit, mbira, urban grooves, gospel, rhumba, sungura, chimurenga, jerusarema, Mbaqanga – will also be on parade. Last year, female dancer Beverly Sibanda captured the imagination with her suggestive dancing which won her the hearts of the crowd.
Chagonda said the big party would be at the National Sports Stadium on May 25 where the likes of the man of the moment Jah Prazah, Alick Macheso, Suluman Chimbetu, Winky D, Peter Moyo, and music superstar Oliver Mtukudzi will belt it out as the curtain comes down on a memorable show.
South African star and crowd favourite Zahara of the Loliwe, and Phendula fame as well the DRC’s Kofi Olomide will delight the crowds. But first, there will be the Miss Carnival that will open the nine day cultural celebration. Reigning queen Danai Chipunza will relinquish her crown for another queen.
Post published in: Arts