Bulawayo’s arts and cultural luminary, Saimon Mambazo Phiri, once again proved why he remains an indomitable force in the creative sector as he celebrated his 50th birthday in grand style last Friday at the Bulawayo Theatre.
Dubbed 50 Dates at the Theatre, the event, a 50-show showcase chronicling his life and work, brought the city’s arts scene to a standstill, drawing the industry’s elite for a night of reflection, celebration, and artistic brilliance.
The meticulously planned evening began with a formal registration at the foyer, where guests were treated to welcome drinks and snacks, setting the stage for networking among artists, media personalities, and cultural enthusiasts.
The main ceremony kicked off with a spellbinding fusion of Gog Bekezela’s traditional rhythms and Ema The Violinist’s contemporary strings, a fitting prelude to a night dedicated to artistic legacy.
More than just a birthday bash, 50 Dates at the Theatre is a movement; a tribute to Mambazo Phiri’s five-decade-long journey as a cultural curator and performance pioneer.
Conceptualised by Mambazo Phiri and his creative team, the project is a 50-night extravaganza running from August 19 to November 1, 2025 featuring music, theatre, dance, poetry, and visual arts.
As explained by Sibukele Maphosa, the event’s co-MC alongside Lady Tshawe, the logo featuring the number 50 superimposed on Africa’s map symbolises both a personal milestone and a continental celebration of creativity.
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“The 50 Dates Logo boldly incorporates the number 50 and the map of Africa symbolising both a milestone in Mambazo’s life and a movement to celebrate African creativity in every corner of the continent,” she said.
Mambazo-Phiri also explained.
"This is not just about me," he said.
“It’s about reclaiming our stories, our stages, and our heritage.
“I’ve spent 50 years in this industry, and now I want us to celebrate African artistry in its purest form."
The idea, Mambazo Phiri revealed, was born when his family proposed a traditional birthday party.
"I’ve never been one for parties, so we thought why not create something bigger?,” he said.
“Something that reflects my life’s work?
“I always told myself I wanted to reach 50 and be fully in control; I own the equipment, the stories, the time and the vision.
“Now, it’s time to let people celebrate this journey.”
True to his ethos, the night was more than just speeches and cake-cutting.
At one point, Mambazo Phiri led the crowd in song, jokingly attributing the electrifying energy to Liquor Supplies’ wine sponsorship:
"Now that everyone’s properly ‘hydrated,’ no one wants to sit still!,” he said.
Actress Nonduduzo Ncube praised the initiative, calling it "a testament to Mambazo’s unwavering dedication to Bulawayo’s arts scene."
She urged locals and the diaspora to support the remaining shows.
“Let’s show up for the man who has given so much to our industry,” she said.
The event also attracted a who’s-who of Bulawayo’s creative circle, including Rapper Asaph, Chief Mbuso Dakamela, Nama winner Kina-The-Music, Poet Sonkomose, NoName Dance Crew and Socialite Samantha Banda.
With 49 more nights of curated performances ahead, 50 Dates at the Theatre promises to be a landmark moment in Zimbabwean arts.
Whether you are a theatre buff, music lover, or simply a supporter of homegrown talent, this is one celebration you won’t want to miss.
