Khaya Arts Shines at the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA)
KHAYA Arts director Future Dube is over the moon after his dance group and he claimed prestigious awards at the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) held over the weekend. Bulawayo’s Khaya Arts was honored with the Outstanding Dance Group award, while Dube himself bagged the Outstanding Choreographer award, marking a significant milestone for the group.
“I am over the moon because this is our first time winning a NAMA, and to win two gongs at one go is a milestone,” Dube told NewsDay Life & Style. “This will change the face of Khaya Arts. Khaya will never be the same again.”
Known for their excellence in various traditional and contemporary dances, including Gumboot, Muchongoyo, and Isitshikitsha, Khaya Arts has consistently impressed with their captivating performances. The double victory at NAMA is seen as a recognition of their commitment to preserving Zimbabwean culture while bringing innovation to the arts scene.
The win was especially meaningful for Future Dube, who expressed how this recognition would elevate Khaya Arts to new heights, inspiring future endeavors and projects.
A Night of Celebration and Achievement
The night also saw emotional moments for other recipients, such as Carol Mashingaidze-Zimbizi, who took home the Outstanding Theatre Actress award. Mashingaidze-Zimbizi, who has previously won a NAMA in the Film and Television category in 2012, dedicated her victory to her niece. “It was a great honor to be awarded the Outstanding Theatre Actress award. It means the world to me,” she said, reflecting on the significance of the achievement. She also expressed hopes that the award would open new doors for her in the theatre industry, not just as an actor but as an aspiring director.
Additionally, Charlene Mangweni-Furusa, a NAMA scriptwriter and voice-over host, was elated with the event’s success. “I think the event has evolved into one where attendees know how to dress up and expect a night filled with glamour and massive performances,” Mangweni-Furusa commented, appreciating the energy and the talent displayed at the event. As the scriptwriter and host, she shared how rewarding it was to craft the intros for such a dynamic set of artists, stating that each act brought something unique to the table.
Glamour and Performance
The awards ceremony took place on Saturday at the Hippodrome in Harare, and was filled with glamour and memorable moments. The red carpet was graced by notable figures, including South African actress Nombulelo Mhlongo, known for her roles in popular shows such as Scandal and Durban Gen. Local stars like Sylent Nqo, Denilson Musekiwa, Winner Bagga, Tamy Moyo, Voltz JT, and Francesca Musheche also made appearances, contributing to the excitement of the night.
Khaya Arts’ victory at the NAMAs highlights not only the group’s hard work and dedication to dance and choreography but also serves as a significant moment in Zimbabwe’s arts scene. With these two wins, Future Dube and his team are set to continue making waves, both in the local arts industry and internationally.
