Ibumba fest calls for artistes

THE Intwasa Arts Festival koBulawayo has come and gone, and now focus is on the Ibumba International Arts festival.

Preparations for the annual fete organised by Siyaya Arts Ensemble and supported by Sabela Music projects have begun with organisers calling on artistes to submit proposals for consideration.

The festival, a celebration of music, dance and theatre has been themed “Mix it Up”. The festivities will begin on December 16, ending on December 22 in Makokoba.

Festival founder Saimon “Mambazo” Phiri said artistes who want to be part of the event must submit their works through their website – ibumbafestival. net and social media platforms – Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Explaining the Mix it up theme, Mambazo said: “This year, we’re mixing up Okwethu (What We Own), Esilakho (What We Have) and Esikwabelayo (What We Share), for a united artistic voice,” said Phiri.

“The festival has new partners and we’re exploring new footprints.”

He added that the festival, which is now in its 18th edition, was hoping to bring out different cultures in the city through artistic expression.

“Through art, we’ll show our way of life, our identity as a people, our resources, traditions, arts and culture that have sustained our people for years. Bulawayo people are known for their hospitality as well as being the cultural hub of the country.”

In the past, the festival has seen groups such as Black Umfolosi, Savannah Arts, Ingwe, Kwabatsha and Sibanye perform. It has also attracted artistes from South Africa, Zambia, Ghana and Germany. —@bonganinkunzi .