By Dumisani Ndlovu
GWERU – The vibrant rhythms of Zambia’s Nyau dance are set to resonate nationwide, as Undi Gure, a dance troupe from Zvishavane, triumphed at the Midlands provincial finals of the prestigious Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival. The electrifying competition, held at Mkoba 4 Beerhall recently, saw their captivating performance secure them a coveted spot to represent the province at the upcoming national showdown.
Ten dynamic dance groups battled for the top honor, but it was Undi Gure’s masterful execution of the Nyau dance, a vibrant expression of Zambian tradition, that ultimately captivated the judges and the enthusiastic audience. Their performance was a mesmerizing spectacle, showcasing intricate footwork, powerful drumming, and the awe-inspiring artistry of masked dancers.
Undi Gure took home the grand prize of $2500 for their winning performance. Rangarirai Pasichigare, also from Zvishavane, secured second place receiving $1500, while Mkoba’s Tanch Edutainment RED from Gweru claimed the third spot and received $1000.
“Undi Gure truly embodied the spirit of Chibuku Neshamwari,” commented veteran cultural analyst, Tafadzwa Moyo, who was present at the event. “Their understanding and portrayal of the Nyau dance was exceptional. They weren’t just performing a dance; they were telling a story, connecting the audience with the deep-rooted traditions of their heritage.”
The troupe’s victory underscores the enduring power and relevance of traditional dance in contemporary Zimbabwean society. Chibuku Neshamwari, sponsored by Delta Beverages through their Chibuku brand, continues to play a crucial role in preserving and promoting the diverse cultural tapestry of the nation, offering a platform for talented artists to showcase their skills and connect with their heritage.
While Undi Gure took home the gold, Rangarirai Pasichigare and Tanch Edutainment RED delivered compelling performances, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the competition. The electric energy at Mkoba 4 beerhall was palpable, a testament to the power of music and dance to unite communities.
Now, all eyes are on Undi Gure as they prepare to represent the Midlands province at the national finals set to be held on July 19 at a venue to be announced.
Speaking after their victory, a group member, Mdara Banda, expressed their determination to showcase the beauty and significance of the Nyau dance on the national stage. “We are incredibly proud to have won the Midlands provincial finals. This is a great honour, not just for us but for our community and the traditions we represent. We are committed to working hard and putting on a performance that will make the Midlands proud at the national finals,” he said.
At the national finals, the top dance group will receive $15,000, the runner-up will get $10,000, and the third-place winner will take home $7,500. Mbende Dance from Mashonaland East scooped the top prize in last year’s competition.
The competition, organised by Delta Corporation in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA), will be held under the theme: “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’ sgubhu Mngane.” The primary objective of the competition is to promote the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditional dance. Can Undi Gure capture the hearts of the nation and claim the coveted Chibuku Neshamwari title? Only time will tell.
