The ZimTainment

By Innocent Veremu

Harare, 30 July 2026 – The Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) has announced the postponement of its much-anticipated return, which had been scheduled for August 2026. The decision was shared in a statement to the HIFA community today, confirming that the revival of the festival will require more time to meet the standards audiences expect .

In the statement, HIFA organisers expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support received since the comeback was first announced. "The many messages, memories, photographs and words of encouragement shared by audiences, artists and friends across Zimbabwe and around the world have been a powerful reminder of the affection so many people continue to hold for this Festival," the statement read.

After being on hiatus since 2018 due to financial and operational challenges, HIFA's planned return had generated significant excitement across the country's cultural sector . However, organisers noted that reviving a festival of HIFA's history and scale is a significant undertaking. "As preparations have progressed, it has become clear that giving ourselves more time is the most responsible way to ensure that HIFA returns with the artistic excellence, organisational care and sense of occasion that our audiences expect and deserve," the statement continued.

While acknowledging the disappointment this news may bring, HIFA leadership emphasised that the decision was made to protect the quality and integrity of the event. The statement also confirmed that work is ongoing behind the scenes, with teams continuing to strengthen partnerships and lay foundations for a sustainable future.

HIFA, which was established in 1999, was widely regarded as one of Africa's premier multidisciplinary arts festivals, showcasing local talent alongside international performers in music, theatre, dance, and visual arts . Organisers have expressed hope that the extended preparation time will allow the festival to return in a manner that honours its legacy and serves its community.

"The work has not stopped," the statement concluded. "We look forward to sharing more of the journey with you in the months ahead, and to welcoming you back to HIFA when the time is right."

Following a highly successful opening run that drew packed audiences and glowing reviews, the festive musical “In Search of the King” returns to the Celebration Centre this weekend for its second showing on 5, 6 and 7 December 2025.

The Zimbabwean-created production, which blends original music, rich storytelling, and striking stage design, has been widely praised for its artistry and emotional depth. 

Audiences from the first weekend have taken to social platforms describing the musical as “world-class,” “breathtaking,” and “a landmark moment for Zimbabwean theatre.”

Producers say many who attended last week’s debut have already booked tickets for a second showing a testament to the impact the musical has made in its opening days.

“We have been humbled by the feedback,” said Event Promoter Lyncolin Kapswara of Events by GEC.

“People are returning because they want to relive the experience with family and friends. That tells us the story and the performances have resonated deeply.”

“We have introduced the $60 for 5 tickets “Festive Bundle” perfect for families, friends, colleagues, churches, schools, or any group wanting to share this experience together,” added Event Promoter Lyncolin Kapswara.

Featuring some of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated voices including Pastor Bonnie Deuschle, Janet Manyowa, Arthur Evans, Walter Tapfumaneyi, and a full ensemble of musicians and choir members the 3,000-seat auditorium has transformed into a festive stage showcasing one of the largest local productions staged in recent years.

Kapswara said the creative team is looking forward to welcoming new audiences as the show enters its second and final weekend.

“This production was created to be shared widely, and we are glad Zimbabwe is embracing it the way it has. If you missed the first run, this is your chance. And if you watched it already, we are ready to welcome you back.”

Show Dates:

Friday 5 December

Saturday 6 December

Sunday 7 December

Venue: Celebration Centre

Time: Doors open 6PM, Show starts 7PM 

A new homegrown musical is set to take centre stage in Harare, and its creators believe it could redefine what large-scale theatre looks like in Zimbabwe. 

“In Search of the King”, an original festive production developed by a collective of Zimbabwean composers, directors, and performers, will run for six nights at Celebration Centre.

The first run takes place this weekend on Friday the 28th, Saturday the 29th, and Sunday the 30th, with the final shows scheduled for the following weekend.

The show blends music, narrative, and ambitious stagecraft in a 3,000-seat auditorium, positioning it among the largest productions staged in the country in recent years. 

The creative team includes artists who have built careers both locally and internationally, underscoring the production’s scope and artistic ambition.

The cast features some of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable voices and personalities. 

Gospel icon Pastor Bonnie Deuschle and award-winning gospel singer Janet Manyowa headline the musical, joined by broadcaster Arthur Evans, actor Walter Tapfumaneyi, and a wide ensemble of professional musicians and choir members.

Event Promoter Lyncolin Kapswara of Events by GEC said the goal is to create a holiday experience that feels both familiar and elevated. 

“We wanted to craft a production that families can enjoy together, something warm and full of meaning, but also something that shows how far Zimbabwean theatre has come,” he said.

He added that the team approached the project with cinematic scale and local heart. 

“Every element from the music to the set design has been created here at home. Audiences will feel the excellence we are capable of when we collaborate at this level.”

With a blend of seasoned performers, an original score composed by Daniel Deuschle, and a story designed to resonate across generations, In Search of the King is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cultural events of the festive season. 

Organizers expect demand for the six shows to be high, noting that the production’s mix of family-friendly themes and star power is likely to draw thousands to Celebration Centre.

Tickets for the show are ranging between $15 to $100 and are available at Booties Pharmacies

By Innocent Veremu

Zimbabwe’s Shoko Festival will celebrate its 15th edition from 25–27 September 2025 in Harare and Chitungwiza, under the banner “The Legacy XV.” The milestone event honours 15 years of artistic innovation, creative freedom, and the growth of urban culture in Zimbabwe and beyond.

Global Partnership for Peace

Organisers have announced an exciting collaboration with the UK-based arts collective Arcadia and global non-profit In Place of War, renowned for supporting creative communities in conflict-affected regions. Together, they are launching Build The Peace, an artistic exchange linking young creators from Zimbabwe and the UK.

The project will produce a co-designed mural that debuts at Glastonbury Festival in June 2025 before being showcased at Shoko’s flagship Peace in the Hood event in Chitungwiza.

“In an era where conflict dominates headlines, this collaboration is a clarion call for peace—using art and culture as catalysts for unity,” said Shoko Festival Coordinator Vera Chisvo.

A Platform for Urban Expression

Since its 2011 debut, Shoko Festival has become a leading stage for music, comedy, spoken word, and digital culture, amplifying marginalized voices and fostering creative freedom. The festival has provided a launchpad for emerging talent and a platform for established artists to engage Zimbabwe’s vibrant urban audience.

This year’s programme stays true to that spirit, with performances across multiple venues. Highlights include a major homecoming by acclaimed comedian King Kandoro as part of his global comedy tour, alongside acts such as Bagga, Runna Rulez, Madedido, and Jnr Spragga.

Digital Justice and Civic Tech

Shoko Festival week opens with The Hub UnConference (24–25 September), Zimbabwe’s premier civic tech gathering. Under the theme “Decolonise the Internet,” it will examine colonial legacies in digital systems, artificial intelligence, data governance, disinformation, and online narratives, drawing innovators and thought leaders from across Africa.

Closing with Peace in the Hood

The festival finale, Peace in the Hood, will once again bring thousands together for a free community concert at Unit L Grounds, Chitungwiza, celebrating resilience, creativity, and unity.

Tickets are available online and at Moto Republik, 3 Allan Wilson Avenue, Harare. Advance tickets for Comedy Night cost $15 (gate: $20), Mash Up Nights are $10 (gate: $15), and a double-entry pass for both nights is available for $20.

NaGuG

Songwriter and performer NaGuG has released her new song titled ‘Simuka’ which is a celebration of one’s culture and heritage.

On the project she enlisted the services of prolific industry gurus; multi-award winning Los Angeles-based producer, Pascal Guyon and multi award-winning choreographer, music producer and creative John Cole to direct the video.

Nagug says the song Simuka was based from a personal experience.

“As a diasporan, it is inevitable that after seeing the world, you begin to value your culture, history, and heritage much more,” she said.

Her years away from home helped her under the richness and value contained in the Zimbawe cultures and value system.

“The song Simuka is birthed from this experience. It's me speaking what I have grasped from the spirit of vanhu/Bantu which I have grown to acknowledge and understand better in my years of estrangement from home, over the years. Africa, particularly My Zimbabwe are a proud nation, wealthy in culture and resources, education and much more,” added NaGuG. 

The product is vibrant and full of life showing the cooperative work of Zimbabwean young people including, videographers, editors, costume designers/stylists, Dancers, Artists and Dreamers.

She stressed that this was proof our young are competent and professional in execution  of projects and that more opportunities should be outsourced to them to build their experience.

“The video of SIMUKA is amplifying the message of coming together of young people hence I outsourced it to 'young blood' , Zimbabwe's young and vibrant generation to amplify the message SIMUKA. I procured John Cole, known as best Dance choreographer and artist to direct  the project,” said the ZIMA 2022 nominated artist.

NaGuG which is an acronym for Nature, Advantage, Gem, Unique and Uncanny and Grand describes her music as soulful and captivating with lyrical depth, that evoke one's thoughts.

Some of her previous work include ‘Back to the Beginning’ and ‘EarthChild’ which were recorded at HubII studios and premixed by multi Grammy winning British Producer, Simon Gorgerly.

Watch Simuka below