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Art News:
Arts Events List 10 April: Hifa Supplement
HIFA 2011 - The Engagement Party - 26 April to 1 May
Shows shown as *Free* are free once you have either bought a general admission ticket to the HIFA Site for that day, or have a ticket to any other HIFA show that day.
Telecel Main Stage Shows
Trea$ure - The HIFA 2011 Opening Show
BancABC Day, Tuesday 26 April, 7:30-8:40 pm, $15
Brett Bailey is BACK this year, with another explosive, extraordinary, extravaganza of an opener for HIFA, incorporating every sense, every genre of art, pushing the boundaries, provoking thought, engaging us completely from the very first moment to the dazzling climax. Like all his HIFA opening shows, it is bound to be the talk of the town, as festival goers analyse both the show itself, and their own reactions to it.
The CABS Opera Gala - The London Festival Opera with The Festival Choir
CABS Day, Wednesday 27 April, 7:30-8:40 pm, $20
This year, the hugely popular CABS Opera Gala will have the exciting added dimension of a local choir, formed especially for the event. Picnic under the stars on this truly romantic HIFA evening, feasting your senses and revelling in the sumptuous world of opera as members of London Festival Opera perform opera arias, duets, and ensembles from Gulio Cesare, Magic Flute, Tannhauser, Tosca and Die Fledermaus.
Tcheka
Thursday 28 April, 7:30-8:40 pm, $12
Born in Cape Verde, Tcheka began performing very young with his father and brothers at village festivities. His music is delicately performed and presented, the compositions laden with nuanced lyricism. Neither modernist nor traditionalist, his music resists easy categorisation or comparison. It is also a busy intersection of Caribbean, Brazilian and African pop, traditional music, folk, jazz, blues, rock, literature, anthropology and film!
Lokua Kanza
Friday 29 April, 5:30-6:40 pm, $12
This Paris-based, Democratic Republic of Congo-born, multi-talented musician started life as Pascal Lokua Kanza in 1958 in what was then Zaire. His decision to become a singer followed a Miriam Makeba concert. Kanza's voice dominates the ensemble and sings in Lingala, Portuguese and French, creating the perfect cross-cultural mix, a blend of beautiful melodies and atmospheres fusing several continents and creating aesthetics that defy categorisation.
Bibi Tanga and The Selenites
Friday 29 April, 8:30-9:40 pm, $15
Born in Paris in 1969, Bibi Tanga bridges the divide between the arty Parisian South Bank of the Seine and the gritty suburbs of the Central African Republic where he grew up as an immigrant. With Bibi's band, The Selenites, they forge a stunningly original sound, creating a space where Afro-futurism meets steam punk. They have now teamed up with Nat Geo Music to bring their fashion-forward funk vision to global audiences.
Nneka
Saturday 30 April, 5:30-6:40 pm, $15
Nneka's music has a splash of Bob Marley and measure of Nina Simone in the recipe, but the best ingredient - is herself. The glue is the emotional focus of her beautiful voice, located in a place somewhere between yearning and rage. Nneka was born in Nigeria and constantly soaked up music from an early age. While love, hope and optimism form the bedrock of her recorded work, she also engages a highly developed mind on some tough realities of modern politics.
Winky D
Saturday 30 April, 12:30-1:30 pm, $12
Winky D has won the hearts of many through his social advocacy and through voicing the belief in social justice through his music. In his quest for social justice, he has visited South Africa, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom, preaching the ghetto gospel. His music is a reflection of human turmoil in the ghetto and failed socio-economic systems that perpetuate social injustice.
Slavic Soul Party!
Sunday 1 May, 5:30-6:40 pm, $12
Slavic Soul Party! also perform with local Brass Players in a street parade from Unity Square to Julius Nyerere Way from 11am to 12.10 on Coca-Cola Day, Sat 30 April.
Slavic Soul Party! started out as a group of New York-based jazz musicians who in the early 2000s put their own spin on the instrumental folk music of Macedonia and the Balkans, creating an acoustic mash-up of Balkan and Gypsy sounds with American music, weaving the gospel, techno, funk, dub, jazz, and Latin influences of New York's neighbourhoods seamlessly into a Balkan brass setting.
BLK JKS
Saturday 30 April, 8:30-9:40 pm, $20
Formed in Johannesburg in 2000, BLK JKS, (pronounced "Black Jacks") play a varied array of rock music from alternative to progressive to experimental. The band were signed to Secretly Canadian, one of America's premier indie rock labels. Last year, they performed at the FIFA World Cup 2010 kickoff concert. In November this year, they have been invited to join the hugely popular American hard rock band, 30 Seconds To Mars, on the latter's return tour to Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Moke with special guest Chiwoniso Maraire
Sunday 1 May, 8:30-9:45 pm, $15
Formed in 2005, Moke is a hugely popular Dutch band based in Amsterdam. Their genre of music is often described as Britpop and Indie rock. British star, Paul Weller was so impressed with Moke he invited them to support his shows at The Forum in London. The band's music was used to theme highlights of the UEFA Champions League on Dutch public T.V., Holland's biggest TV talk show embraced Moke and gave them a monthly stint on the show.
Music on the Lays Global Stage
Mbira Dze Mutupo and Hwevambira
Tuesday 26 April, 10 pm-2 am, *Free*
Since its inception, the festival has celebrated the opening day with a traditional bira ceremony. This year, the ceremony will be lead by Mbira dze Matupo and Hwevambira. Today, Mbira Dze Mutupo is a full mbira ensemble of six musicians. Mbira, Ngoma and Hosho, the traditional Shona instruments, are used by the ensemble to provide a musical context through which they entertain their audiences with musical and rhythmic discussions, storytelling as well as musical reflections on various social issues.
Oona and Dream Deep featuring James Mujuru
Friday 29 April, 12:30 -1:30 pm, $8
Sunday 1 May, 1-2 pm, $8
Harpist, Oona McOuat, fuses a Celtic soul with a contemporary soundscape. Soothing and grooving, the Canadian singer/songwriter and her band, Dream Deep, blend elements of folk, world, new age and jazz, reaching beyond the boundaries of genre and culture. Earthy and ethereal, Oona joins with Zimbabwe's own, vocalist and mbira master, James Mujuru, top Cuban percussionist, Jose Sanchez, and cello virtuoso, Corbin Keep, to create musical magic.
Paolette in Living Hotel Concert
Friday 29 April, 10-11pm, $12
Sunday 1 May, 7-8 pm, $12
Sultry Italian singer, Paolette, is set to "engage" her audiences at HIFA as completely as she does in her home country. With her five-man band, her Living Hotel Concert transforms the stage into a "hotel living room", where everyone can come and relax, have fun and immerse themselves in jazzy, smoky sounds. Fusing traditional jazz sounds with gypsy beats and contemporary pop, Paolette and the Living Hotel Concert is a show not to be missed.
Jorge Fernando and Fabia Rebordão with Guilherme Banza
Wednesday 27 April, 5:30-6:30 pm, $8
Thursday 28 April, 3:45-4:45 pm, $8
In his home country of Portugal, Jorge Fernando has had an illustrious career as a guitarist and singer as well as composer of many hits that are played by other Fado singers; Fado music is usually linked to the Portuguese word, "saudade" (meaning, "to miss" or "long for someone or something"), which symbolises the feeling of loss. Fernando will be joined by one of the most talked about rising stars of Fado, singer Fabia Rebordão, and well-known Portuguese guitarist, Guilherme Banza.
Mbiragamelan Dreams: Mbiragamelandreaming - Songs from the Ring of Fire
Thursday 28 April, 5-6 pm, $8 - NMB Bank Recital Room
Saturday 30 April, 7-8 pm, $8
Peni Candrarini is one of Indonesia's most acclaimed classical and contemporary vocalists. This is a rare chance for Zimbabweans to hear Indonesian gamelan music performed by a trio of the highest quality. Candrarini and mbira player, Albert Chimedza, have performed and explored their interest in seemingly disparate musical forms together since 2008. The compositions will feature jazz musicians from South Africa, gamelan musicians from Indonesia and Chimedza on mbira. <http://www.mbiracentre.com>
Publish The Quest
Thursday 28 April, 9-10pm, $6
Friday 29 April, 10:15-11:15pm, *Free*, Coca Cola Green
Saturday 30 April, 10-11am, $6
This American group blends groove melodies, blues, rock, ska and world pop with blazing vocal lines to make music that continually questions social issues. They combine dance music melodies, powerful lyrics, thumping bass, stout snare shots, sassy horns and wicked guitar lines to create something both unusual and eminently danceable. The band twists and ties music and words together to make people move and think at the same time, bringing people together to share both the happiness and pain of life. <http://publishthequest.com>
Watsamba M'diou, African Crossover
Thursday 28 April, 10-11am, $6
Friday 29 April, 3:15-4:15pm, $6
In 2009, Swiss composer, vocalist and saxophonist, René Desalmand, held a residency, provided by Pro Helvetia, Swiss Arts Council, in Maputo, where he, along with vocalists and percussionists, Rolando Lamussene and Matchume Zango (both from Mozambique) worked on a common repertory for about ten days. They introduced their tunes to an additional rhythm section and played some shows in Maputo.
<http://www.youtube.com/wazambamdiou>
Ivan Mazuze
Sunday 1 May, 3:45-4:45 pm, $8, Lays Global Stage; 10pm-Midnight, *Free*, Coca Cola Green
Saxophonist, Ivan Mazuze's live performances are a reflection of some of the best southern African contemporary jazz sounds. The basis of the music is rhythmically percussive with jazz harmonisation and the use of vocals together with saxophone transmits a message through melody and lyrics. This is a musical journey through some of the contemporary sounds of traditional settings within southern Africa. In his second performance, Mazuze will be joined by singer and mbira player, Busi Ncube.
Josh Meck and Asali
Thursday 28 April, 1-2 pm, $6
Saturday 30 April, 4-5 pm, $6
Zimbabwean bass guitarist, Josh Meck, and Kenyan afro jazz musician and spoken word poet, Asali, collaborate to bring a unique cross cultural experience at HIFA. The collaboration incorporates different cultural rhythms to generate a new expression of the art grounded in two societies appealing to an international audience. Meck is a musician whose music pulses with Zimbabwean traditional rhythms fused with modern contemporary jazz styles and electronica. Asali is a musician whose poetry traverses the borders of English and Swahili and whose music marries Afro Jazz and spoken word poetry.
Kíla
Wednesday 27 April, 9-10 pm, $10
Thursday 28 April, 6:15-7:15 pm, $10
One of Ireland's most innovative and exciting bands, Kíla's seven members came together from different musical backgrounds with a shared passion to create great music which absorbs influences from across the globe. Their music is clearly rooted in traditional Irish, but with its own unique elements, featuring strong singing which is almost percussive in its effect, and lovely melodies, driven by rhythmical undercurrent.
Semtam
Saturday 30 April, 10-11 pm, $8
Semtam began as a solo project of Krystof Koenigsmark from the Czech Republic, a DJ at Prague's Radio 1, in 2000. He began to produce his music on PC, mixing downtempo, breakbeat and drum 'n' bass. Krystof spent two years in Zimbabwe and on returning home joined forces with Telka and developed a live show. They began reworking material to be played live recorded a few tracks with Zimbabwe's own Mannex. Their performances are based on dub infused with breakbeat, dubstep, hip hop, jungle, reggae, trip-hop and ambient. At HIFA 2011 Semtam collaborate with Mannex and other local artists.
Comrade Fatso and Chabvondoka, Stripped - The Acoustic Set
Friday 29 April, 7-8 pm, $8
Comrade Fatso & Chabvondoka are an explosive, genre-busting, insurgent band that defy musical boxes and modern day apolitical pop music. Stripped bare, intimate, rhythmic, sarcastic, real, Comrade Fatso and his ensemble will leave you shocked, awed and asking for more with their acoustic set. This is a whole new side of Zimbabwe's leading protest band as they peel away their usual rip-roaring, electric set to show you a softer, more intimate side with an all acoustic set featuring special guests. <http://www.comradefatso.com>
Sonic Slam Chorus
Tuesday 26 April, 6-7 pm, $6
Wednesday 27 April, 11:15am-12:15 pm, $6, Lays Global Quarter
Sonic Slam Chorus is an experimental, passionate and deeply moving marriage of art forms. This seven piece sound kaleidoscope is a dynamic fusion of electro-acoustic soundscapes, melody, jazz and spoken word. It features acclaimed slam poets, Dikson from Zimbabwe and TJ Dema from Botswana as well as Norwegian composer and vocalist, Cecilie Giskemo, fellow Norwegian guitarist, Asbjoern Lerheim, Vee Mukarati on saxophone and clarinet, vocalist, Prudence Katomene and drummer Blessing Muparutsa.
Bulawayo Kwela Calabash with Albert Nyathi
Tuesday 26 April, 2-3 pm, $6
Bulawayo Kwela Calabash will feature the music of the 50s and 60s, dominated by the Kwela music genre and characterised by the pennywhistle. Bulawayo Kwela Calabash join hands with award winning poet, the globetrotting Albert Nyathi, in an exclusive show at HIFA this year to offer something exquisite, exotic, fresh, refreshing, bold and innovative. Bulawayo Kwela Calabash play this type of music with virtuoso expertise.
3rd Stream
Wednesday 27 April, 2-3 pm, $6
Sunday 1 May, 11 am-12 pm, $8, Coca Cola Green
3rd Stream is a talented fusion band comprising Vee Mukarati on saxophone and vocals, Philbert Marova on keyboard and piano, Donald Chifamba on cello and bass and Tinashe Mukarati on percussion and drums. The synergy of jazz and classical is what brought about the name and concept of the band. Smart, vibrant and fun, 3rd Stream bring their varied experiences and different traditions together to create a new, kinetic, intellectual blend of exciting, original music, making their debut as a group at HIFA.
Edith WeUtonga
Saturday 30 April, 1:40-2:30 pm, $8
Jazz sensation, Edith WeUtonga, started out as lead singer and songwriter in the all female, Bulawayo-based band, Amakhosikazi, meaning, "The Queens". She picked up the bass guitar and played with the band until they broke up in 2006. From its remnants, came a new band, So What?!, which would soon make a name for WeUtonga. So What?! relocated to Harare, where they developed a reputation playing the live circuit at hot spots such as The Book Cafe, Jazz 105, Sports Diner and the Kraal.
Music at 7Arts
Antonio Forcione and Adriano Adewale
Wednesday 27 April, 4-5 pm, $12
Thursday 28 April, 9:15-10:15 pm, $12
Award-winning Italian guitar virtuoso Antonio Forcione joins forces with the dynamic Brazilian percussionist, Adriano Adewale, to form an amazing duo of passionate original music! The many fans Antonio has won over his several acclaimed HIFA shows over the years, will undoubtedly once again relish the classic guitar compositions that have made him world renowned. The combination of his soul-jazz and flamenco guitar melodies masterfully blended with Adriano's African and Latin rhythms is a stirring and passionate experience. <http://www.antonioforcione.com>, <http://www.adrianoadewale.co.uk>
Boubacar Traoré
Coca-Cola Day, Saturday 30 April, 3:45-4:45 pm, $15
Boubacar Traoré carries within him all the beauty of African blues. A diamond among the jewels of Mandingo music, he shines with the dark glow of exceptional purity. His unique, inimitable, self-taught guitar technique owes a great deal to his kora influences, but its shades and phrasing also suggest the great black bluesmen of America's deep South. Boubacar Traoré is currently touring Europe, and soon, we'll welcome him to HIFA!
Frida Hyvönen
Tuesday 26 April, 9:15-10:15 pm, $8
Wednesday 27 April, 9:15-10:15 pm, $8
In recordings of Frida Hyvönen (pronounced Hee-Vo-Nen), her songs cut to the core, slicing through all emotional barriers to pierce your heart. And live, she is hypnotic, majestic and a truly arresting performer. In Sweden, Frida is a chart-topping star. Performing at HIFA as a trio, this artist blends the confessional with the fictional; her wit with a sexuality that shifts from the refined to the raw while referencing high art and pop culture in a manner which puts her at the top of a new international class of singer-songwriters.
Tony Cox and Steve Newman
Thursday 28 April, 12:30-1:30 pm, $12
Friday 29 April, 10-11 pm, $12,
Zimbabwean-born Tony Cox is considered to be one of South Africa's finest musical exports. Along with his six-string prowess, Cox delivers up a mix of his laconic humour with a fair dose of story-telling; taking any listener on an aural journey that is at once new and simply unforgettable. Steve Newman is an accomplished South African acoustic guitarist and, for thirty years, has been collaborating with Cox. As individual guitarists in their own right, Cox and Newman are unparalleled in South Africa as the most innovative guitarists that this part of the world has ever seen.
Mic Inity
Saturday 30 April, 10:15-11:15 pm, $10
This youthful musician has caused quite a sensation in local reggae circles. Pulling a big crowd at his mid-week shows at The Mannenberg is testimony to this. Mic Inity (aka Mike Madamombe) developed his love for reggae music as he grew up. His father, an ardent follower of reggae, used to play songs by Bob Marley and Peter Tosh. As a youth, he had a dream of making the big time as a musician. Leaving Marondera for Harare, he began as a singer for Transit Crew, later starting his own group.
My Dream
Tuesday 26 April, 12-1 pm, $15
HIFA proudly presents the renowned China Disabled People's Performing Art Troupe, who bring their gala show, My Dream to the Festival for one performance only. The show encompasses a stunning visual display, spectacular costumes, moving choreography as well as haunting music and features the breath-taking Thousand Hand Bodhisattva- the dance of 1000 hands, performed by a chorus of hearing-impaired dancers.
Chiwoniso Maraire and Victor Kunonga, True African Vibe Concert
Wednesday 27 April, 7:30-8:30 pm, $10
An exhilarating synergy of interlocking melodies, electrifying energy and shared chemistry between two, exceptional Zimbabwean artists. Victor is a rising star whose gentle power and elegance combine in his highly personal brand of afro beat and afro jazz infused traditional cross rhythms. Chiwoniso is Zimbabwe's legendary "Mbira Queen", who entwines entrancing and uplifting songs with ancient soul and modern spirit. A singular and unforgettable musical experience.
Music on Coca-Cola Green
Busi Ncube & Ivan Mazuze
Sunday 1 May, 10 pm-Midnight, *Free*
Vocalist and mbira player, Busi Ncube's career did not die with the demise of legendary local band, Ilanga. Now based in Oslo, Norway, she has followed the road taken by UK-based artists such as Thomas Mapfumo, who went to the U.S.A. to expose themselves to a better international market. Now back in Zimbabwe on holiday, she has been staging shows all over Norway and she is teaching music at Oslo Academy of Music and Culture School. She will be performing with saxophonist, Ivan Mazuze.
Shower Power
Sunday 1 May, 2-3:15 pm, *Free*
Shower Power is one of Zimbabwe's most resilient, original and versatile male vocal gospel groups. Their name derives from, Shower the Holy Ghost Power, and they are a group who believe in the transformative power of God's Holy Spirit and the need to spread this to others through song. Shower Power was the brainchild of two young singers, Venus Khumalo and Simba Nyawiri, who formed a male vocal group to sing gospel music with a contemporary flavour.
Munya Mataruse and Nekazevezeve
Wednesday 27 April, 4-5:30 pm, *Free*
As a young boy, Munya learned dance, percussion and traditional marimba music. He joined a traditional dance troupe and then joined the marimba band, Bandarimba, and later learned acoustic guitar. After six months of playing, he featured in a show at the Pakare Paye Art Centre with various well known artists including Oliver Mtukudzi, Steven Makoni, Victor Kunonga, Poda Muriwa and Sam Mtukudzi. He continued learning and holding local solo shows at the centre, and in 2007 he took part in the Victoria Falls International Jazz Festival. Now a rising star, he formed his own band, Nekazevezeve, all fellow students from the Centre.
Mathias Julius & Mokoomba
Saturday 30 April, 11:30 am-12:30 pm, *Free*
Mathias Julius is a multi-talented singer, dancer, choreographer and songwriter. In addition to his numerous international appearances with the Tumbuka Dance Company, he was featured as a dancer in the music video, Perekedza Mwana, released by Oliver Mtukudzi. His music draws on a variety of influences ranging from traditional and popular Zimbabwean music to reggae, dub and hip hop. Mokoomba offers audiences a blend of Afro-fusion and traditional Tonga rhythms. Vibrant and danceable, their music combines Western contemporary instruments with traditional Tonga.
Also featured on Coca-Cola Green:
Real Sounds of Africa - Saturday 30 April, 11pm-Midnight, *Free*
John Pfumojena and Ay Band/Mnandi - Thursday 28 April, 2-3pm, *Free*
Clare Nyakudya and The Other Four - Tuesday 26 April, 5-6 pm, *Free*; 9-10 pm, *Free*
Black Bird - Friday 29 April, 11:30am-12:30pm, *Free*
Spitmunky - Wednesday 27 April, 6:30-7:20pm, *Free*
PE Jazz Band - Tuesday 26 April, 12:45-2 pm, *Free*
PE Pop Band - Wednesday 27 April, 12:15-1:15pm, *Free*
DJ Marvin – Friday 29 April, 11:15 pm-1:30 am
DJ Ray Dizz and DJ Rax – Saturday 30 April, Midnight-1:30 am
Jason le Roux – Wednesday 27 April, 10:15 pm-Midnight
Kudzai Sevenzo – Thursday 28 April, 11 pm-12:30 am
Publish The Quest – Friday 29 April, 10:15-11:15 pm, Special Appearance
The Divine Touch - Sunday 1 May, 12-1 pm
Club Shanga – Thursday 28 April, 5-6 pm
Classical Music - in the NMB Bank Recital Room
Jeanette Micklem - The Romantic Pianist
Tuesday 26 April, 2:15-3:10 pm, $6
Wednesday 27 April, 3:30-4:25 pm, $6
Well known Zimbabwean pianist, Jeanette Micklem celebrates the 200th anniversaries of the births of Schumann (1810) and Liszt (1811) with a programme of gems from the romantic piano literature. Their legacy and inspiration are revealed in the sonata by the Russian romantic, Alexander Skryabin. She will play Schumann's Kreisleriana opus.16, Liszt's Benediction de Dieu dans la Solitude and Scriabin's Sonata number 5 in F sharp major. <http://www.jeanettemicklem.co.zw>
Peter Martens
Thursday 28 April, 11.30 am-12.10 pm, $6
Sunday 1 May, 7-8pm, $8
Peter Martens performed here in 2007 and is thrilled to be returning to delight audiences in the NMB Recital Room on the cello, accompanied by Jeanette Micklem. Early this year, he was appointed artistic administrator and director of the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival. As a chamber musician, he has participated in festivals in Holland, Austria and Portugal as well as having performed in the UK and the USA. Many South African composers have composed for him.
St James Quintet
Tuesday 26 April, 4:45-5:40 pm, $8
Friday 29 April, 2-2:55 pm, $8
The St James Quintet was formed in 2007 from students at the Royal Academy of Music for a performance at St James Palace for the awarding of the Queen's Anniversary Medal. Since then, the quintet has appeared regularly in performances both at the Academy and beyond. The quintet has performed for HRH The Princess Royal, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Sir Harrison Birtwhistle.
Clockwise Duo
Thursday 28 April, 2:30-3:20 pm, $12
Saturday 30 April, 11:30-12:20 pm, $12
Described as "masters of strings", New York City-based Clockwise was formed in 2006 by two leading South African-born musicians, harpist, Jacqueline Kerrod and violinist, Marc Uys. Clockwise is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organisation. In addition to their enthusiasm for participating in the creation of new music, Clockwise also performs a growing repertoire of music from Bach to Britten and Cage. <http://www.duoclockwise.com>
Philomela
Friday 29 April, 7-8 pm, $8
This Helsinki-based women's choir, led by the renowned conductor, Marukka Riihimäki, performs traditional and modern choral music, sacred masses and light music, Finnish national epic style, the Kalevala, as well as the works of contemporary composers, many of whom have dedicated works to Philomela. The choir's performances celebrate the diversity of the human voice and often marry experimental choreography with their inventive programmes.
Coady Green and Leigh Harrold
Sunday 1 May, 4-5 pm, $8
Accomplished concert pianists, Coady Green and Leigh Harrold both return to HIFA by popular demand, after an extremely hectic performance schedule last year! Leigh is one of Australia's most sought-after pianists and has performed extensively throughout Europe, North America and Australia as both soloist and chamber musician. Coady has been awarded almost all the most prestigious cultural awards that his native Australia has to offer. He regularly performs in Europe and abroad.
Chamber Music Recitals Programme
Saturday 30 April, 2-3 pm, $8
Saturday 30 April, 7-8 pm, $8
This programme features musicians from St James Quintet and Clockwise Duo, cellist Peter Martens, pianists Coady Green and Leigh Harrold, and Opera Gala soprano, Alenka Ponjavic and are a rare opportunity to hear two exceptional programmes of mixed chamber music repertoire performed by extraordinary visiting musicians.
The ZOL Theatre Programme
Burn Mukwerekwere Burn
Tuesday 26 April, 4:30-5:20 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Wednesday 27 April, 4-4:50 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Thursday 28 April, 11:20 am-12:10 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Saturday 30 April, 7:30-8:20 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Two young Zimbabweans (one Shona and one Ndebele) running away from home discover the harsh realities of the rainbow nation when South Africa erupts into xenophobic violence. Finding shelter in the oddest of places, they are forced to examine their situation and reflect on their predicament as they try and journey to safety - wherever that maybe. The two are forced to deal with their own tribalistic and xenophobic tendencies as representatives of Zimbabwe's two major tribes. Burn Mukwerekwere Burn offers a shrewd window into the soul of the Rainbow nation. Written by Blessing Hungwe, directed by Giles Ramsay.
The Comeback
Tuesday 26 April, 6-7 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Friday 29 April, 12:30-1:30 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
This is a piece about Eli, who returns home from the UK to rediscover herself and touch base with her roots after a miserable and rather unsuccessful stint abroad. She wants to pick up the pieces of her broken life through a musical show in which she is starring called, The Comeback. Yet she also has to deal with haunting images and memories from her not so rosy past. Written by Sifiso Mabena, an actress from Bulawayo and now an emerging writer with this, her first play, and directed by Leeroy Gono. Part of the British Council HIFA DIRECT programme which mentors rising playwrights and directors.
Jesus, My Boy - The Joseph Story
Thursday 28 April, 2:40-3:40 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Friday 29 April, 3:15-4:15 pm, $6, Theatre Upstairs
Saturday 30 April, 1-2 pm, $6, Theatre Upstairs
Sunday 1 May, 12:30-1:30 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
This one man show tells an edited story of Jesus from the point of view of his earthly father which not only means that well-known episodes from the Bible can be viewed from a new angle but also common preconceptions can be debunked, though "We were hoping for a girl" can safely be taken with a pinch of salt. It achieves the feat of giving "the greatest story ever told" a fresh perspective - Joseph shakes off the image of a dutiful but sexless octogenarian and we see instead a man who is warm, funny, vulnerable yet unconditionally loving. Written by comedian and musician, John Dowie, and directed by Sue Bolt and starring Mike Southall.
Whatever Happened to Betty Lemon
Tuesday 26 April, 12:15-1:05 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Wednesday 27 April, 11:15 am-12:05 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Friday 29 April, 5:45-6:35 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Sunday 1 May, 10-10:50 am, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
The fourth in a cycle of "one woman plays", What Ever Happened to Betty Lemon is sure to have audiences alternately reaching for their hankies or falling off their chairs with mirth! The author, Arnold Wesker, describes the play as "a self-portrait of defiance and despair". Lady Betty Lemon, widow of a Labour peer, receives a letter informing her she's been voted "Handicapped Woman of the Year". It appals her and she spends the next 45 minutes rehearsing the speech she will never give and raging on behalf of those handicapped by fear of their priests, charlatans, charismatic politicians, marriage, ignorant teachers and bigoted parents. At a certain moment her motorised wheelchair takes on a life of its own, another of her life's vicissitudes.
PaperBoy!
Wednesday 27 April, 2:15-3:05 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Saturday 30 April, 12:45-1:35 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Sunday 1 May, 2:15-3:05 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Bobby Jones is a multi-faceted human being; a newspaper delivery boy but also an aspiring detective. After he swings a newspaper into an open window sending late Mrs Moodley's ashes flying into the air, Bobby's life spins out of control. Hilarious housebreaking antics follow with Bobby using his 'James Bond' detective tactics to uncover facts probably kept secret. Actor, singer and scriptwriter, Grant Jacobs, moved around all over Durban as he grew up, and currently lives in Umhlanga.
The Harare Files
Friday 29 April, 10-11 am, $6, The Standard Theatre
Saturday 30 April, 5-6 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
It's no secret that Harare has been a hard city in which to live over the last decade. This performance takes seven true stories of seven ordinary people caught up in extraordinary events: hyperinflation, hunger, migration, violence and collapse. The subject is serious, the show is not. It is about how ordinary people survived extraordinary events; it is a story of victory and personal achievement, not defeat. Sometimes the biggest victory is being able to say, "I survived it. I'm still here." The Harare Files salutes the people of Harare. They're still standing. This one man piece is narrated and acted by Tonderai Munyebvu and directed by Sarah Norman.
Rituals
BancABC Day, Tuesday 26 April; 3:30-4:30 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
CABS Day, Wednesday 27 April, 9:15-10:05 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
From NAMA 2009 Award winning creative partnership of acclaimed author Stephen Chifunyise, and director-producer, Daves Guzha, comes Rituals, a musical and inspirational journey through community-driven healing processes following traumatic and violent experiences. The piece is based on the concept of National Healing and Reconciliation following the violence that rocked our country in the past. This piece incorporates dances and singing, as done during the ritual ceremonies of many tribes during cleansing ceremonies. Six stories are pieced together to come up with plausible scenarios in terms of events that took place and solutions offered to mend.
Daliso Chaponda - Laughrica
Thursday 28 April, 2:15-3:15pm, $12, 7Arts Theatre
Sunday 1 May, 1:45-2:45pm, $12, 7Arts Theatre; 7-8 pm, $8, 7Arts Theatre
Daliso Chaponda is a Malawian-born, UK-based stand up comedian who has appeared in shows and festivals around the world. Chaponda has built his career on laughing at western culture. He is a versatile act with socially insightful material tempered by a playful, optimistic outlook. He has performed four successful one hour one man shows including Feed This Black Man, about the way the developed world sees Africa, Don't Let Them Deport Me, about immigration; and Westerners Calm Down, about the global financial crisis. Chaponda began his comedy career in Canada, then South Africa, and finally, moved to England where he appears in comedy clubs and theatres everywhere. Laughrica turns his comedic eye on Africa and himself. From multiple coup d'etats to corrupt politicians, colonialism and HIV, it lampoons the craziest elements of African life and culture while celebrating the way in which Africans face issues.
Dr Pocket's Ocean Commotion
Tuesday 26 April, 2-2:50pm, $6, Reps Theatre
Wednesday 27 April, 10-10:50am, $6, Reps Theatre
Come on an incredible ocean adventure with Bogie and Ned and meet fantastical creatures on the way. Pirates, sharks and sea-monsters all come to life in brilliant ultra-violet colours. Innovative props and staging make this an unforgettable journey for young and old, written by Dr. Pocket and directed by Jacobus van Heerden. Suitable for all ages.
Accidental Death of a Radical
Thursday 28 April, 10-11 am, $6, The Standard Theatre
Saturday 30 April, 10-11 am, $6, The Standard Theatre
While in a provincial police station for apparent falsification of his credentials, a 'maniac' stumbles across a file documenting the alleged suicide of a radical railway man. With the file in hand, the maniac takes it upon himself to turn the tables and interrogates the hapless police force. What ensues is a fast paced black satire on corruption and brutality. This production is adapted from Italian Nobel Prize winner, Dario Fo's Accidental Death of an Anarchist, a farce based on events involving a real person, Giuseppe Pinelli, who fell (or was thrown) from the fourth floor window of a Milan police station in 1969. He was accused of bombing a bank (the Piazza Fontana bombing). This adaptation is a Theory X/X-Lab Production under the guidance of Zane E. Lucas.
Hotel Paradiso - Familie Flöz
Saturday 30 April, 2:15-3:30 pm, $15, Reps Theatre; 8:30-9:45 pm, $15, Reps Theatre
Sunday 1 May, 11am-12:15 pm, $15, Reps Theatre
Strange things happen at Hotel Paradiso, a time-honoured mountain resort kept alive with some difficulty by an old lady and her family. While a mineral spring promises relief from physical and mental pain and the hotel proudly boasts four stars, dark clouds are nevertheless gathering in the bright sky. The son dreams of his great love while fighting his sister in his effort to gain control of the hotel. Meanwhile, the maid is in the habit of stealing the hotel guests' valuables, and the cook chops up much more than just pork. This is a dramatic nightmare steeped in black humour with a hint of melancholy, the most vicious and mysterious play hitherto staged by Familie Flöz who make their welcome return to HIFA.
The Man Who Committed Thought
Tuesday 26 April, 10-11:20 am, $6, The Standard Theatre
Saturday 30 April, 10:10-11:30 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Sunday 1 May, 11am-12:20 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Patrice Naiambana, leading actor with the Royal Shakespeare Company, returns to HIFA with the tale of an African lawyer much attached to the Queen and Shakespeare, who is caught up in a dangerous search for truth in war torn, post-colonial Sierra Leone. When he meets Mamadou, a fearless peasant seeking justice for his beloved cow which has been eaten by a greedy dictator, the initially indifferent lawyer embarks on a searing self-examination and commits thought. Is it all in vain? This piece won a Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh Festival and for those who were devastated to miss this phenomenal performance last year, now is your chance!
The Gospel of Othello
Thursday 28 April, 4:10-5:30 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Sunday 1 May, 5:15-6:35 pm, $8, The Standard Theatre
Our women bear the pain of absence when our sons and daughters leave home for faraway lands, what strange fruit will our land bear the ancestors of the future? The love between the 'Black Othello' and the beautiful Italian Desdemona transcends all barriers but this is not enough to avert a tragic train of events. Will their story uplift or destroy the spirits of his people? What do Africans make of Shakespeare's portrayal of this son of Africa? The Gospel of Othello highlights the predicament of Exile. Conceptualised and facilitated by Patrice Naiambana and his team of African Diaspora collaborators, this play offers us a fresh way of seeing Othello.
Diary of a Madman
Wednesday 27 April, 7:15-8:05 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Thursday 28 April, 7:30-8:20 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Friday 29 April, 11:20-12:10 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
Sunday 1 May, 3:30-4:30 pm, $6, Reps Theatre Upstairs
This is a Russian classic by Nikolai Gogol. It is a story of a man descending to madness because of the pressures of the monotony of his work as a civil servant. This one-man act infuses other techniques like mime, clowning and physical theatre. Diary of a Madman centres on the life of Poprishchin, a low-ranking civil servant and titular counsellor, who yearns to be noticed by a beautiful woman, the daughter of a senior official, with whom he has fallen in love. His diary records his gradual slide into insanity. As his madness deepens, he begins to suspect two dogs of having a love affair and believes he has discovered letters sent between them. Adapted by Melissa Everleigh and starring John Pfumojena.
A feast of Food and Sound with Donpasta
Thursday 28 April, 10-10:50 am, $12, Reps Theatre
Friday 29 April, 7-8 pm, $12, Reps Theatre
Sunday 1 May, 2-2:50 pm, $12, Reps Theatre
DJ Daniele De Michele, aka Donpasta, the poet-cook, ecologist and gastro-philosopher, presents this event. His multi-media show melds Italian Salento cuisine, music, folktales and images to create a sensory experience that is at once contemporary theatre, tales of an old storyteller, the misadventures of a clumsy cook and the combination of a passion for food, musical ponderings and cultural reflections. His shows introduce a whole new way of enjoying the pleasures and art of eating, listening to music and travelling. All senses are summoned, sight, taste, smell, touch, hearing, and every word has a counterpoint in images. Every sound coming from the kitchen becomes music, which inspires the melodies. The cooking images depict the creation of the dishes - eat before viewing the show, lest you faint from hunger!
Colours of Dreams
Wednesday 27 April, 7-8 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Saturday 30 April, 3:15-4:15 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
The central characters of the story are a school teacher, a former money changer and their wives in Zimbabwe. The economy of the country has collapsed along with their dreams. But a glimmer of hope has risen in the form of a "classified" rumour about the return of the Zimbabwe Dollar that has emanated from the moneychanger's highly placed connections. With this rumour also comes a re-living of the long shadows of their dreams and fears for the future as the characters start to imagine all sorts of new ways of making money. This play receives its world premiere at HIFA 2011 as part of the HIFA-Direct project, a training and mentoring initiative for Zimbabwean writers and theatre directors.
The Dance Programme at HIFA 2011
Umoja
Sunday 1 May, 4-5:15 pm, $6, 7Arts Theatre
Umoja Cultural Flying Carpet is a programme spread across two continents and 8 countries to promote peace and development via cross cultural collaborations. The culmination of an intensive period of workshops during the Festival will result in a spectacular high energy performance by over 65 specially selected young performers from South Africa, Norway and Zimbabwe, featuring special guests, UMOJA patrons, Kenyan superstar Eric Wainana, and Ray Phiri.
Flatfoot Dance Company
Friday 29 April, 4-5 pm, $6, 7Arts Theatre
Saturday 30 April, 7-8 pm, $6, 7Arts Theatre
Flatfoot Dance Company presents Circle, choreographed by guest choreographer, Sifiso E Kweyama, and Bloodlines, choreographed by Lliane Loots who is the artistic director of the company, featuring spoken word poet, Iain "Ewok" Robinson. Flatfoot Dance Company is a contemporary company formed professionally in 2003 with a strong focus on creating cutting edge dance theatre but also focusing strongly on dance teaching and education.
Come To The Party - National Ballet
Friday 29 April, 11 am-12 pm, $12, 7Arts Theatre
Saturday 30 April, 10-11 am, $12, 7Arts Theatre
Eclectic movement styles including ballet as well as acrobatics, contemporary, hip hop, modern and tap all feature in this choreographic, Mardi Gras-style celebration. A show for dance lovers of all ages presented by Zimbabwe's much-loved National Ballet.
Identity Moves
Friday 29 April, 8:45-9:30 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Thursday 28 April, 9-10 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Two works by Israeli choreographer, Sharona Florsheim, stretch the lines between individual and feminine identity. In her work, Sharona offers a critical look on the feminine world wrapped in self humour and poignant honesty. Cecilia Now is a meeting place for a woman to meet herself over time confronting issues of transformation and consistency in the perception of her individual identity. In Since Eve Left the Garden, two dancers encounter their femininity through a dialogue woven with animation and video. <http://www.sharonaflorsheim.com>
Flamenco Macandé
Thursday 28 April, 6-7 pm, $12, 7Arts Theatre
Flamenco Macandé presented by a group of five great artists of international acclaim will impress the public and shake the walls of 7Arts as never before. The company comprises two famous flamenco dancers, Oscar de los Reyes and Carmen Gonzalez, flamenco macande guitarist, Luis "el Salao" (meaning, "salty", and is slang for, "charming/amusing"), percussionist, Juan Heredia and flamenco singer, Bernardo Vazquez. This show is an aural, visual and emotional banquet to warm body, mind and soul. Flamenco emerged from marginalised working-class Andalusian neighbourhoods in Spain and grasps the most profound human emotions of drama - seguidilla, love - msoleá, joy - bulería. Flamenco music and literature have been declared a World Heritage by UNESCO.
Kankan Indian Dance
Tuesday 26 April, 11 am-12 pm, $8, Reps Theatre
Thursday 28 April, 7:30-8:30 pm, $8, Reps Theatre
Started 27 years ago by multi-award-winning choreographer, Sonal Sagathia, Kankan is the leading folkdance group from the Western Indian state of Gujarat. The troupe's mission is to popularise the wide variety of gorgeous, colourful folkdances of this region and to bring their rich cultural heritage to audiences around the world. The socio-religious orientation of the troupe's performances raises art to the level of a prayer in which each artist works for the well-being of society.
Décompte (Countdown)
Thursday 28 April, 1:45-2:20 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Friday 29 April, 4:30-5:05 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
In her solo, Décompte, Zab Maboungou (de)composes, within the music's silences, a meditation on what time unties: our actions, our thoughts, our body, our lives. The performance features Octavie Dostaler-Lalonde (cello) and Marc Keyevuh (percussion). Zab Maboungou/Compagnie Danse Nyata Nyata is an enterprise of contemporary artistic expression, which defines its activities in the field of African dance.
<http://www.nyata-nyata.org>
Hip Hop Is In Me - Impact Dance
Tuesday 26 April, 3:30-4:15 pm, $10, 7Arts Theatre
Wednesday 27 April, 12:30-1:15 pm, $10, 7Arts Theatre
Impact Dance makes their debut at HIFA with a world premiere of their new show. This exciting company of four dancers, award winning U.K. DJ, Mikey J Asante as well as artistic director, Hakeem Onibudo. The show is "narrative hip hop theatre", a fusion of hip hop dance technique, physical theatre, spoken word and a live DJ, charting the life of Onibudo, his struggles growing up and finding his true identity and purpose. The performers literally escape from their narrative roles and interact with the crowd.
Down the Aisle of Heaven - Dance Foundation Course
Wednesday 27 April, 9:15-10:05 pm, $6, Reps Theatre
Sunday 1 May, 4:30-5:20 pm, $6, Reps Theatre
Performed by the emerging dance artists of the Dance Foundation Course (part of Dance Trust of Zimbabwe), this show has become one of the most anticipated events of the HIFA dance programme each year. The new generation shows us what lies within them, how deeply each breath influences their consciousness as they race down the aisle of Heaven. Who gets there and how?
Listen and Watch - Compagnie 7273
Tuesday 26 April, 9-9:40 pm, $6, The Standard Theatre
Wednesday 27 April, 10-10:40 am, $6, The Standard Theatre
French choreographers and dancers, Laurence Yadi and Nicolas Cantillon, established their Compagnie 7273 in 2003 on the Franco-Swiss border in Geneva. Listen and Watch is the result of a totally written choreography. Yadi and Cantillon have been investigating a very physical form of fluid, organic dance of perpetual and endless invention; a sort of trance which would have an almost hypnotic effect on the public. This piece has been realised in collaboration with the American musician Sir Richard Bishop. <http://www.cie7273.com>
Tempered Souls
Tuesday 26 April, 5:30-6:20 pm, $8, Reps Theatre
Thursday 28 April, 10:15-11 pm, $8, Reps Theatre
A unique multi-media production staged in a rarely seen loading area behind the National Gallery, Tempered Souls features South African dancer and choreographer, Itumeleng Mokgope, collaborating with three Zimbabwean dancers, surrounded by tyres, as they uncover the many social dynamics and meanings this object symbolises. Tempered Souls was featured during the Goethe Institute Johannesburg's Football Meets Culture series held during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Blue Blood
Thursday 28 April, 4:30-5:20 pm, $10, Reps Theatre
Friday 29 April, 2-2:50 pm, $10, Reps Theatre
South African choreographer, Gregory Maqoma, takes audiences on an artistic adventure through two mindsets: the 'mother mind' and the 'warrior mind'. In his continued exploration of modern identity, he teams up with major artists, Luyanda Sidiya and Shawn Mothupi, using ancient musical elements that weave a tapestry of evocative music with prominent threads of Zulu guitar sounds and lyrics. This is a major regional dance event and one of the highlights of HIFA's contemporary dance programme this year.
SEE ME!
Wednesday 27 April, 5:15-6:10 pm, $6, Reps Theatre
Friday 29 April, 10-10:50 am, $6, Reps Theatre
After their sensational HIFA 2005 performance, Leaning, Nina Lill Svendsen's company returns with another beautiful and dramatic dance performance by acclaimed Swedish choreographer Sølvi Edvardsen. SEE ME! is a story about a young girl's relationship with her mother and father as she gains independence. Questions about taking chances, making choices and about mutual dependency underpin the constant struggle to be seen and noticed. For this family, it's the essence of living.
The HIVOS Spoken Word Programme
Celebrating African Expression! - Curated by poet Chirikure Chirikure
Engagement is about communication, involvement, awareness and empowerment. It is about hearing each other speak. The HIFA 2011 Spoken Word programme provides a platform for engagement, to stimulate dialogue through the celebration of African expression, with practitioners from across Africa, from Malawi, Botswana, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana and Zimbabwe and a guest artist from Denmark. Saturday is a special dedication to the late great Zimbabwean poet, Julius Sekai Chingono. Each day the programme focuses on a different theme, featuring different languages, styles, rhythms and patterns, poetry, prose, chants and soulful music. Each performer has the liberty to interpret the themes in their own way - the hallmark of of free expression.
The artists are:
Ngwatilo Mawiyoo from Kenya, Quaye Kojo - Sir Black - from Ghana, Pitika Ntuli and Ewok, both from South Africa, Q. Malewezi from Malawi, T J Dema from Botswana, Morten Søndergaard from Denmark, and our own Daniel Mandishona, Valerie Tagwira, Nevanji Madanhire, Mgcini Nyoni, Bhekusa Moyo, Thanda Richardson, Blackheat deShanti, Linda Gabriel, Aura, Upmost, Mbizo Chirasha, and as a special guest, Outspoken.
Duets which combine Spoken Word and Music are presented by Phillip Svosve (saxophone) with Aaron Yafele (trombone), Charles Chipanga (marimba) with Namatai Mubariki (voice), while Clare Nyakudyara, Steve Chikotie and Andy Brown will all present pieces combining guitar and voice.
Ngwatilo Mawiyoo
A keen observer and devoted student of the written word, Ngwatilo Mawiyoo's first book of poems, Blue Mothertongue, published last year, is a collection set in Nairobi and the African diaspora. Ngwatilo has achieved serious acclaim and has been dubbed "a priest of the art of performed poetry". In 2010, she performed here in Zimbabwe and in Malawi on a tour that formed part of the 14th 2010 Poetry Africa Festival held in South Africa, run by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
Qabaniso 'Q' Malewezi
Qabaniso Malewezi, also known as Q, set off on his creative journey in theatre and music in high school. He went on to study performing arts at the prestigious Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) whose patron is Sir Paul McCartney, and later at the Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) in London. Though the focus of his training was primarily music, Q's appreciation of the spoken word led to his own experimentation with poetry writing.
Daniel Mandishona
Daniel Mandishona was brought up by his maternal grandparents in Mbare. Expelled from Goromonzi Secondary School for what the headmaster called 'habitual truancy', he moved to London. He first studied Graphic Design and then Architecture at the Bartlett School, University College London and began writing in 1982 after reading Dambudzo Marechera's House of Hunger. His first short story, A Wasted Land was published in Contemporary African Short Stories (Heinemann, 1992).
Bekumusa Moyo
This poet went to study at Nkulumane High School where he discovered the great talent of poetry in him. In 2006, he won the Power In the Voice Poetry Competition and was the country's representative to the International Festival in 2008. Numerous poems of his have been published in the Sunday News Poetry Corner and other Publications. He is a performing poet too, with one album titled, Moments of Madness under his belt.
Alice 'Thanda' Richardson
Alice 'Thanda' Richardson is an explosive young vocalist on the local Zimbabwe music scene, known for her passion and energy for dancehall reggae and ragga – what she calls "a fusion for the youth of the 21st Century". In 2009, she performed in Harare and Denmark with hip hop group, Bikstok Rogsystem, and with youth festival Umoja. Thanda composes her own songs and is working on her debut album, Give Thanks And Praise, which features Only Jah, Jah He Knows - already an anthem among her fans.
Mbizo Chirasha
Mbizo Chirasha was inspired by his social surroundings at a young age. As a young man, Mbizo quickly gained prominence as a performing poet and writer both in Zimbabwe and internationally. The themes of his poetry include children's rights, politics, social lives, gender issues, praise and protest, culture and African pride. With a vision of using his poetry to promote peace, healing, stability, and cultural freedom, Mbizo is a poet with commitment, talent, and a desire to perform whenever and wherever he can.
Aura
20-year-old Aura started writing poetry at the age of 12 and, as she grew older, realised poetry is not about words but about what you are saying. While at college in her second year, her father was retrenched so fees could not be paid, since then, she has been the bread winner in her family. Her poetry and music preaches about love and she regards her art as her husband. She is a regular at the Book Café and sees in her work an opportunity to influence people, envisioning a world where artists are taken seriously and realise that we are voice that can be utilised.
Morten Søndergaard
One of a golden generation of Danish poets, Morten Søndergaard is as versatile as he is memorable. Having gained renown across Europe and the US for his organic adaptation of poetic form, his output over the last several years has been varied and remarkable. His humorous, sensory poetry is a major contribution to this art form in Northern Europe. Critics have observed in his work, a deliberate return to wide-eyed curiosity, and an observant humour.
Nevanji Madanhire
Nevanji Madanhire has lived a varied life reflecting the restlessness of growing up in an amorphous fledgling Zimbabwe. As a teenager, during the war of liberation, most of his classmates ended up fighting on either one side or the other. During the first two decades of independence he worked as a teacher, curriculum theorist, educational book publisher, public relations executive and a journalist.
Pitika Ntuli
Pitika Ntuli combines a vast store of African mythology and history, a keen awareness of the contemporary and an astonishing ability to improvise in his evocative poetry. A South African sculptor, poet, writer and academic spent 32 years of his life in exile in Swaziland and the U.K.. He has exhibited in several individual and group exhibitions in many countries in Europe and in the U.S.A., and has organised numerous international art and cultural events in Britain.
Spoken Word Scheduling
Tuesday 26 April, $6, 3-4 pm
Here we go! Opening the week of poetic celebrations, a taste of what's coming.
Hosted by Chirikure Chirikure
Featuring: Pitika Ntuli, Valerie Tagwira, Bhekusa Moyo, Thanda Richardson, Namatai Mubariki and Charles Chipanga.
Wednesday 27 April, $6, 3-4 pm
Theme - Rhythm in the voice - Celebrating the vibrancy of our diverse languages.
Hosted by Aura
Featuring Q. Malewezi, T.J. Dema, Quaye Kojo, Mgcini Nyoni, Mbizo Chirasha and Clare Nyakudyara
Thursday 28 April, $6, 12-1 pm
Theme - Reflecting, expressing! Looking deep down the inner soul, with sincerity.
Hosted by Blackheat deShanti
Featuring Ngwatilo Mawiyoo, Pitika Ntuli, Quaye Kojo, Nevanji Madanhire, Mgcini Nyoni, Steve Chikotie, Morten Sondergaard
Friday 29 April, $6, 4:30-5:30 pm
Theme - Future in our hands! The younger voices, mature now, gearing for tomorrow.
Hosted by Upmost
Featuring Ewok, Q. Malewezi, Bhekusa Moyo, Thanda Richardson, Blackheat deShanti, Clare Nyakudyara
Saturday 30 April, $6, 3-4 pm
Theme - Vende – Missing tooth! Tribute to Julius Sekai Chingono
Hosted by Linda Gabriel
Featuring Pitika Ntuli, Morten Sondergaard, Daniel Mandishona, Mbizo Chirasha, Aura, Phillip Svosve and Aaron Yafel
Sunday 1 May, $6, 12-1 pm
Theme - Basa sebasa - My poetry is my job. Celebrating the worker!
Hosted by Chirikure Chirikure
Featuring Ngwatilo Mawiyoo, Quaye Kojo, Morten Sondergaard, Q. Malewezi, Upmost featuring Outspoken, Linda Gabriel and Andy Brown
Other Spoken Word Happenings in the HIVOS Poetry Café - all these shows are *Free*
Tuesday 26 April, 4-5 pm
Kudzai Chimbaira and Per Gottfredsson from Stockholm Improvisation Theatre lead an interactive workshop and play reading session.
I AM ABUNDANCE - a hybrid art documentary/video art project
Friday 29 April, 2:15-3:15 pm
This session showcases the joyful and powerful expression of a group of poets and performers who are aspiring Zimbabwean filmmakers. Born out of workshops led by Agnieszka Piotrowska, acclaimed documentary filmmaker, and funded by the British Council, the performance hopes to capture the spirit of their energy, creativity and confidence.
Saturday 30 April, 11 am-12 pm
Readings of scripts from the highly successful HIFA-Direct project, presented by the British Council. Be part of the development process for Zimbabwe's classic plays of the future!
HIFA 2011 Visual Arts
Entrance to the Gallery every day is *Free - provided you have a HIFA general admission ticket for that day, or ticket to any other show at HIFA, for that day.
Beyond Borders
Questioning the development and challenges in contemporary art practice in East and Southern Africa and beyond. An exhibition curated by Raphael Chikukwa and presented by the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in partnership with HIFA. Beyond Borders seeks to examine the role and idea of borders in today's world and how they shape our ideas of nationalism and identity. The exhibition and the conversations around the theme "Beyond Borders" will look at how Africa is viewed from the outside and how Africa see's itself.
Participating Artists Include:
Zimbabwe:
Mukudzeishe Muzondo, Berry Bickle, Charles Bhebhe, Bording Dzinotizei, Gideon Gomo, Gareth Nyandoro, Toney Gwenya, Rudo Zijena, Lin Barry, Barry Thomas, Chrispen Matsikenyera, Kufa Makwavarara, Ray Bernard, Bethule, Wycliff Munopa, Keith Zenda.
From Beyond our Borders:
Justus Kyalo - Kenya, Miriam Kyambi - Kenya, Lawrence Chikwa - Zambia, Uhuru Kgope - Bostwana, Titosh Pelembe - Mozambique, Sabine Kutt - Germany, Katrina Nitsch - Sweden, Beatrice Ehrstom – Sweden, Romex Ahimbimbe - Uganda, Wassa Donald - Uganda, Henry Mzili – Uganda.
This show pays special tribute to the wonderful Mozambican artist Valentino Malangatana who died earlier this year.
Happenings in the Gallery
*Free* provided you have a HIFA general admission ticket or ticket to any other show at HIFA.
Harare Conversations
A series of conversations will be held by visiting artists and curators. These will run between 9 am to 1 pm on the 26, 27 and 28 April. For more information about the Harare Conversations, please contact Tashinga Gondo at tmatindike@gmail.com.
Music While You View
Chisipite School Flute quartet will perform a short concert on Lion Lager Day, Friday the 29 April, 2pm.
Me-Me
Tuesday 26 April, 11am-1pm, *Free*, National Gallery of Zimbabwe
Tuesday 26 April, 4-6pm *Free*, National Gallery of Zimbabwe
Wednesday 27 April, 11am-1pm, *Free*, National Gallery of Zimbabwe
For an other worldly experience don't miss the live art installation Me-Me, interacting with Gallery visitors on the first two days of the Festival.
Global Quarter Craft and Design Market
Open every day from 10 am to 7 pm *Free*
HIFA's creative hub of 89 different artisans from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Swaziland and South Africa showcase and sell a fine selection of original gifts, toys, home decor, accessories, and fashion regalia in the highly engaging market area behind the National Gallery.
Global Quarter Platform - all shows *free
Theatre Irrwisch, the Austrian street theatre company who will perform 2 shows.
The Mudjumping features a small group of performing vagabonds - acrobatics become poetry as the performers interact with the audience and tell their story.
Wegenstreit's Guests has become a classic performance at street and city festivals throughout Europe. The crazy figures in tails on stilts don't talk but create chaos wherever they go – they are artists on their stilts and poets in their hearts.
Villa 1 Nyau Club, a multi-award winning company from Harare, presenting ceremonial Malawian masked dance – mysterious masks, colourful characters and a pantomime-like performance style that makes this traditional dance show entertaining, and also a little frightening….
Handcraft Showcase, gleaming, jangling and sparkling on the Global Quarter Platform!
Tuesday 26 April, 12-12:45 pm – Theatre Irrwisch The Mudjumping, 4-4:35 pm – Villa 1 Nyau Club
Wednesday 27 April, 10-10:45 – Theatre Irrwisch Wegenstreit's Guests, 1:15-2 pm – Handcraft Showcase
Thursday 28 April, 11-11:45 am – University of Zimbabwe Confucius Institute Choir, 3-3:45 pm – Theatre Irrwisch The Mudjumping
Friday 29 April, 10-10:45 am – Theatre Irrwisch The Mudjumping, 1:30-2:15 pm – Handcraft Showcase; 5-5:30 pm – Theatre Irrwisch Wegenstreit's Guests
Saturday 30 April, 11-11:35 am – Theatre Irrwisch Wegenstreit's Guests, 2:30-3 pm – Villa 1 Nyau Club
Sunday 1 May 2-3 pm – Handcraft Showcase and Auction; 4:15-5:15 pm – YOUTH ZONE CARNIVAL PASSING THROUGH THE AREA!
HIFA 2011 Workshops
HIFA 2011 workshop and professional development programme - networking and dialogue opportunities for arts professionals.
The power of music to transform the lives of young people, families and communities
Thomas and Dennie Palmer Wolf of WolfBrown - <http://www.wolfbrown.com/> - describe examples from both large cities and small towns in the United States where music programs have been specifically designed to make positive changes in people's lives and address local societal challenges. A dialogue to explore connections and opportunities between US and Zimbabwe.
Tuesday 26th April, 3-4 pm, National Gallery of Zimbabwe, Upstairs Space, *Free* - If interested in attending email <mailto:artists@hifa.co.zw>
Sarah Johnson, Director of the Weill Music Institute at Carnegie Hall, New York City will lead a discussion about the educational and community work undertaken by the Institute in NYC. The session offers an opportunity to learn about shared challenges, and strategies to bridge arts education gaps in urban schools.
Wednesday 27th April, 3-4 pm, National Gallery of Zimbabwe, Upstairs Space, *Free* If interested in attending email <mailto:artists@hifa.co.zw>
Networking Session for Cultural Sector Motivators
Speed-dating; engage with like minded professionals, funders and visiting festival directors and policy makers.
By invitation, please contact Jane Parsons on medemjane@yahoo.co.uk <mailto:medemjane@yahoo.co.uk> for more information
Friday 29 April, 12:30pm-1:15pm, Studio 4
Growing the Sector
An invitation to all craft sector development enthusiasts – Presenters Erica Elk (CCDI South Africa) and Gail Mawocha (Technoserve, Swaziland) will talk about product, development, marketing and access to international markets. A discourse that aims to "craft" a way forward for the sector. Lion Lager Day, Friday 29 April, 2:30-3:30 pm, Studio 4, *Free*
Harare Conversations
A series of structured conversations between visiting artists and curators. These will run between 9am and 1pm on 26, 27 and 28 April. For more information contact Tashinga Gondo at <mailto:tmatindike@gmail.com>
The African Music Festivals Network (AMFN)
In order to support networking and development, we are extending a welcome to 16 festival directors from around the Continent. The AFRICAN MUSIC FESTIVALS NETWORK - AMFN – will be launched at HIFA 2011. The founding festivals include the most prominent music festivals from Mali, Senegal, Mauritania, Togo, Benin, Burkina Faso, Niger, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, Mozambique, Ethiopia and of course HIFA itself from Zimbabwe. The network is launched by agreement between Zimbabwe's Pamberi Trust and the Danish Centre for Cultural Development – DCCD – in association with regional partners African Synergy (South Africa) and Kaay Fecc (Senegal).
By invitation only Workshops
ALENKA PONJAVIC (soprano) – Vocal Workshop
It's not about being PERFECT, it's about being your self - give voice to your wildest self! This workshop in the National Gallery aims to offer - Awareness of the power and quality of your voice, - Improved confidence in public speaking through singing, - More vocal energy and focus. Friday 29 April, 11 am-12 pm, National Gallery, *Free*
GILES RAMSAY – Theatre Skills Workshops
British theatre writer and director, and Founder of Developing Artists <http://www.developingartists.co.uk> Giles Ramsay, leads two workshops for theatre practitioners and those interested in theatre craft (minimum age: 17).
Playwrighting - Writing for Actors
Solving problems - writers sometimes forget they are actually writing words that actors have to convincingly say and instead write for themselves, or an imaginary reader.
Thursday 28th April, 1-2 pm, Studio 4, *Free*
Directing - Staging for an Audience
Solving problems - directors forget that their job is to consistently engage audiences throughout theatrical performances and to communicate clearly.
Friday 29 April, 4:30-5:30 pm, Studio 4, *Free*
Familie Flöz – Playing With Masks
What do I do? I put on a mask – and then what? What can I do to give life to this rigid contraption covering my face? How can I make the mask "act" so the illusion is created that my mask and me are fused into a single character?
Friday 29 April, 15:30-16:30 pm, Studio 4, $5
Photography Workshop
German photographer Sabine Kutt will be working with a group of young Zimbabwean photographers in an intensive workshop during the week of the Festival. This workshop is supported by the Zimbabwe German Society (ZGS). By invitation only
Choral Workshop
Renowned Finnish conductor, Marjukka Riihimäki, of the Philomela Choir will lead a two-day choral workshop with local singers.
By invitation only
Dance Workshops
Master Classes - During the week of the Festival, all visiting dance companies will host classes for dance professionals. Companies/choreographers include - jozi art: lab, Sharona Florsheim, Zab Maboungou and Impact Dance. To get a schedule and register please contact Soukaina Edom: <mailto:emarielaure88@hotmail.com>
Fun, Activity-Based Workshops
Necklace creations
Create your own necklace using semi-precious stones Kits available @ $20, tools provided. Hosted by Michelle (Shamelle International) – ages 13 +
Wednesday 27 April, 2-3 pm, Studio 4, *Free*
Creating Angels
Make your own beautiful angel decoration with Michelle (Shamelle International). Kits available @ workshop for $5. Tools will be provided – under 12's
Thursday 28 April, Noon-1 pm, Studio 4, *Free*
Zumba Dance
Participate in feel good dance sessions (Merange, salsa, reggeton, cumbria, samba, tango… and more) - no problem if you don't know the steps, Tofara will show you how – all ages
Saturday 30 April, 9-10 am, Studio 4, $5, Alliance Insurance Day, Sunday 1 May, 9-10 am, Studio 4, $5
"LAUGH YOUR HEAD OFF" - LAUGHTER AS EXERCISE
Join the rest of the world in celebrating World Laughter Day – adults only
Sunday 1 May, 3– 3:45 pm, Studio 4, *Free*
DRUMS OF PEACE
Join this group in creating a sound that resonates through the Festival site, demonstrating the wonderful spirit of Zimbabwean people and the peace and harmony that exists within each of us - drums will be provided.
Sunday 1 May, 10 am-11 am, Global Quarter Craft and Design Centre, *Free*
Thursday 28 April, 10 am-7 pm, *Free*
Friday 29 April, 10 am-7 pm, *Free*
Saturday 30 April, 10 am-7 pm, *Free*
TAM TAM DRUM MAKING WORKSHOP
Engage in a drum circle or hand craft your own drum with Anthony and visiting drummer Daniel. They are based in the Global Quarter, near the Platform, so visit them whenever suits you! Global Quarter Craft and Design Centre, *Free*
SPECIAL EVENT: Book Launch - Jump Theatre - How To Make A Play by Kevin Hanssen
Theatre is about telling stories, and it takes more than just actors to do that. There is a whole team of people needed to make a show a real success. Jump Theatre explores these many roles and process. Littered with Kevin's personal experiences in the theatre, both locally and abroad, he has distilled the last twenty years of his theatrical experience into a book that guides the reader through the many varied and wonderful layers of putting together a brilliant play. So jump in, join him and some funny friends at the Jump Theatre Book Launch at HIFA 2011.
Saturday, 12:30-1:30 pm, National Gallery Upstairs Space, *Free*
HIFA 2011 - Outside Engagements
Totally FREE shows on the First Street Platform - every HIFA day from 12 to 2 pm!
And engage your senses and keep an eye out for large scale “happenings” in and around the city. Mural company Mooiemuur will again collaborate with local artists on developing a second large-scale mural in town, and designer Heath Nash will develop a permanent light installation in the CBD.
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