THE much-awaited Christmas fiesta is here and for many, celebrations have already begun, with most people travelling from one point to another to meet their loved ones.
BY WINSTONE ANTONIO
December 25 is a day set aside by the Christian community to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, usually marked by gift-giving, family and social gatherings and also church services
The day also features the display of colourful decorations including Christmas trees, lights and garlands — in addition several mythological figures known as Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas or Santa Claus, will be bringing gifts to children during the festive season.
While some theories suggest that during the festive season, musicians record brisk business as they increase the gate charges in response to demand, Sulumani Chimbetu’s publicist Joe “Local” Nyamungoma said, while the theory might apply to some artistes, it is not the case with his dendera camp.
“We respect our fans who are our paymasters, so there is no need to hike gate charges because we are performing during the festive season. Remember we have people coming from the Diaspora, who are keen to see their favourite musician (Sulu) in a live act, (so) we have to accommodate them by charging reasonable prices,” Nyamungoma said. “In some shows, we may have no option but to adjust the charges a little bit because of the depressed economic environment.”
Jah Prayzah’s manager, Keen Mushapaidze, admitted that the festive season might bring better fortunes, but it is about where one is performing.
“The demand of shows might increase as a result of the festive season, meaning we have to work extra hard to fulfil the gigs if we are to make a difference from the other ordinary days,” Mushapaidze said.
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While some will be taking a rest, for some local musicians it will be business as usual, entertaining patrons at different functions and concerts.
Meanwhile, a number of gigs have been lined up this festive season and party lovers will be spoilt for choice.
Sulumani Chimbetu and Orchestra Dendera Kings start their busy schedule tonight, with a performance at Mushandirapamwe Hotel located in the high density suburb of Highfield. Tomorrow they travel to Chegutu to entertain patrons at TP Rukawo Motel, their traditional Christmas Day home since the days of the late Simon Chimbetu. On Saturday they travel to Mashonaland West for a performance at Off Road Night Club in Chirundu, before rounding it up on Sunday with a show at As You Like Hotel in Karoi.
The mining town of Hwange, at the Colliery Stadium, will see music treated to some dancehall music, as self-proclaimed dancehall president Winky D and his Vigilance Band headlines a potentially-explosive gig. The Bhachi neJean singer, currently riding high with his latest 10 track-compilation album, will be supported by Jah Prayzah and his Third Generation Band, dendera singer Chimbetu, alongside Hwange-based hip-hop star Divara as they take turns to entertain merrymakers.
Jah Prayzah and his Third Generation Band will then take their act to Gweru tomorrow, as they perform at Roman Catholic Cathedral Hall supported by TrysonChimbetu, alongside Judgement Yard Sounds. On Saturday they will be at Legends Sports Diner in the high density of Nyameni, Marondera, supported by Afro-jazz sensation, Jean Masters, while DJ Ninja will be on the turntables. They will wrap up their busy schedule with a performance in Mashonaland Central at Tendai Hall in Bindura.
The First Family of Gospel Music, Charles and Olivia Charamba and the Fishers of Men will take to the stage at the Cafe Afrique Restaurant and Gardens, Harare, tomorrow during a Christmas luncheon show.
Motor Sport fans will be in for a treat at the biggest Battle Of The Champs burnouts event slated for Saturday at Borrowdale Racecourse in the capital, featuring 16 Gusheshes and the legends drivers among them Goofa, Majid, Sleeky C, Vince D, King Lusha, Boss Ice, Gazza General, DJ Shy, Spin Kid, Coco Master, Mayor, Taku, Siraj, Fuzzy L and Cici Boy.
Madhawu hit-maker, Alick Macheso and Orchestra Mberikwazvo tomorrow entertain patrons at The Platinum Bar formerly Pick N Save in Mutare. At the gig, BaSharo, as the musician is fondly known by his fans, will share the stage with popular Mutare-based gospel musician Blessing Shumba. The sungura maestro is expected to perform some songs from his forthcoming album Tsoka Dzerwendo to be released any time soon as promised by his camp.
Red Fox Hotel, commonly known as Kumaraster, situated in Greendale, Harare, on Saturday hosts Vadzimu Records Festive Season Live Bands and DJs, with an array of artistes and wheel spinners taking turns to entertain patrons at the joint. Among the DJs that will be on the decks are Duse Rudeboi, Bobolex, Tulpa, Irie Lion, Techniks and Damian Talented gospel couple Charles and NamataiChipanga, who front Chalenam Rhythms Band, tomorrow entertain guests at Cresta Lodge in Msasa, Harare.
