High Voltage Poets ignite Mtapa Hall with electrifying performance
By Kwedu News
Gweru, Zimbabwe – In a day marked by national pride and cultural celebration, the High Voltage Poets illuminated the newly designated National Monument, Mtapa Hall, with a powerful performance that resonated deeply with the audience and dignitaries alike.
The event, commemorating the lighting of the independence flame and the conferment of National Monument status upon Mtapa Hall, was graced by the presence of Vice President Constantino Dominic Nyikadzino Chiwenga, who personally acknowledged the poetic duo following their captivating set.
High Voltage Poets, a Gweru-based collective known for its dynamic and impactful spoken word, showcased two of its brightest stars: Fungai “Fungie the Poet” Goronga and Deliverance “The Broken Pen” Muzenda. The highly anticipated collaboration exceeded expectations, delivering a scintillating performance that left attendees in awe.
Mtapa Hall, steeped in history and cultural significance, provided the perfect backdrop for the event. As attendees packed the area outside the hall, anticipation buzzed in the air. The stage was set for an afternoon of poetry that transcended mere words and evoked the deepest of emotions.
Fungai and Deliverance commanded attention from the moment they took the stage. Weaving together spoken word, rhythm, and theatrical flair, they crafted narratives that spoke directly to the heart. Themes of unity, struggle, resilience, and hope reverberated throughout their performance, drawing listeners into a world where words held the power to heal and inspire.
A highlight of the performance was their rendition of “The Beacon of Light,” a powerful poem written by High Voltage Poets Artistic Director, Dumisani Ndlovu, paying homage to Zimbabwe’s rich liberation struggle heritage and its link to the Zanu-PF party. With each line, they painted vivid images of the past, encouraging reflection on roots while inspiring courage and strength for the future. The duet’s seamless exchange of verses created a tapestry of sound and emotion that captivated the audience.
As the performance unfolded, murmurs of appreciation grew, especially during a poignant piece addressing contemporary social issues. Fungai’s heartfelt delivery coupled with Deliverance’s powerful vocal dynamics created an experience that was deeply felt.
Vice President Chiwenga, visibly moved by the performance, recognized the power of poetry to inspire change. He had previously offered scholarships to Fungai and fellow poet Lesson Dumoluhle Ndlovu in 2020, recognizing their contributions to the arts and their potential as future leaders. This event also served as a testament to the positive impact of his investment in young talent.
The performance culminated in a collaborative piece titled “Beacon of light,” an anthem of empowerment urging unity in the face of adversity. The impact was electric, igniting a collective spirit of unity and determination throughout the hall.
The audience erupted in applause as the final lines were delivered, leaping to their feet in appreciation. Vice President Chiwenga, clearly impressed, called Fungai and Deliverance to the podium for a handshake, a gesture that symbolized both recognition of their talent and the government’s support for the arts.
Beyond the performance, the event celebrated High Voltage Poets’ growth as a collective. Over the years, the group has nurtured not only poets but also versatile public speakers, many of whom have become leaders in various fields. Their commitment to mentorship and empowerment distinguishes High Voltage within the arts community.
The performance’s impact resonated throughout Gweru and beyond, highlighting the significant role that poetry plays in societal discourse. It served as a reminder of the power of words to inspire, provoke thought, and unite communities.
As Gweru reflects on this landmark event, High Voltage Poets have solidified their position as cultural ambassadors for the city and the nation, proving their commitment to the arts and their ability to address pressing social issues through the power of poetry.
