Albert Nyathi and Imbongi will hold a show to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Senzeni Na? at Bulawayo’s Archers Sports Club on Saturday. BATANAI MUTASA OWN CORRESPONDENT
The musical of the poem, written by Nyathi in 1993 following the assassination of South African nationalist Chris Hani, featured many artistes including Prudence Katomeni Mbofana, Mathew Kaunda, aka Mateo, Nyathi and Muzi Mangena.
The commemorations will be used to launch a multi-lingual production of the song.
“My idea was to get all languages on the Constitution to be part of the project we are launching on Saturday, but we faced some logistical challenges. However, the idea on the day would be still to speak through various languages on stage and people can expect that,” Nyathi said.
“There will be total fireworks especially since although Senzeni Na? is my most popular song. I don’t think it is the best I have produced, I believe most people will be in for a pleasant surprise,” he added.
A statement by Imbongi Arts on the anniversary said the aim was to create national landmark events around the gig that would result in dialogue and awareness around issues of cultural fragmentation, cultural diversity and the need to relink Zimbabwean communities through a cultural platform.
“As a song celebrated nationwide, the 20th anniversary celebrations have been held at the Book Café in Harare and after these two launches, any promoter could invite us to other places. We are also exporting this project from next year,” Nyathi said.
He explained that he was on a mission to bring a world-class performance to Bulawayo and his show would start at precisely 8pm with a compact schedule to force all performers to effectively manage time.
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“Most of the people who worked on the initial Senzeni Na? project are no longer part of the group and to include them we will screen their present images from 7pm,” Nyathi said.
Jeys Marabini will support the event, participating in the Senzeni Na? performance, but will also have a solo act.
“A number of upcoming artists like Mpumelelo Shining Stars will also perform and as it is a cultural expression I want people to dress there was they want and be free to bring the whole family for an electric show,” Nyathi added.