The Sunday News
Lance Chigodo Sunday Leisure Reporter
IN yet another exciting edition of the Jibilika Dance Festival, held in Bulawayo last week, local dance group — Magesh emerged tops in the annual competition, walking away with $1 000. This was the 8th edition of the festival and the first time for it to be held in Bulawayo. The festival was held at the Bulawayo Arts Theatre on 22 August this year and was attended by more than 100 dancers from across the country.
Outgoing title holders — Explosion Dance Crew — also representing Bulawayo were toppled to second place and got $750, while Ebony Arts from Gwanda claimed third place with a prize of $500.
This was the third time for Magesh to win the grand prize since the competition was incepted in 2008.
Arthur Ndlovu, a member of Magesh Dance Crew said they gained a lot more than victory from the festival.
“To us the Jibilika Festival is not a matter of competition but a matter of learning new stuff. The competition was average compared to other years though it lacked originality, as I noticed some groups were using dance routines from other renowned dance outfits,” said Ndlovu.
Magesh dance group’s kwaito/house dance routines, playing around with soft drink crates and hats propelled them to dizzy heights in the competition, as they showcased something different from all the other groups and participants.
Jibilika Dance Festival founder and director Plot Mhako said he was pleased with the way Magesh had matured through the years.
“I think the group’s hunger to learn, work and try out new things keeps them going. Their impressive drive and level of precision keeps them at the top,” he said.
Mhako also said this year’s edition had more participants from other regions compared to previous years.
“This year’s edition was historic; taking the festival outside Harare proved that there is more untapped talent outside the capital. The competition’s response and impact was amazing. On that note the next Jibilika will be in Bulawayo again,” said Mhako.
The 2015 edition winners will undergo artistic development programmes, which will give them the opportunity to empower them with skills.
