Ndebele culture takes centre stage at Bulawayo Arts Awards
by MELUSI MHLANGA
BULAWAYO – THE upcoming Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) on December 20 at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC) Hall 3 promise a vibrant celebration of creativity deeply rooted in Ndebele cultural identity.
This year’s Qhube Outstanding Theatre Production category features three dynamic nominees whose work continues to shape and preserve local artistic heritage: Ipi Ntombi by Bulawayo Theatre, Grand Taimaz by Umthombo Arts, and Without a State by Bambelela Arts Ensemble.
Bulawayo Theatre’s re-imagined Ipi Ntombi is directed by veteran playwright Sandy Bradnick, with Vusi Ndebele as music director and Future Dube of Khaya Arts leading choreography.
Set and props were crafted by Candy and Amy Murrell, contributing to a production that has travelled from Bulawayo to Harare after successful runs at BAF and Intwasa.
Umthombo Arts’ Grand Taimaz is guided by artistic director Memory Zikhali, whose work continues to centre Ndebele storytelling through dance and physical theatre.
Bambelela Arts Ensemble presents Without a State, led by director Nomvelo Behane, known for tackling social themes through the lens of community experiences and traditional forms.
In the acting category, Bulawayo Theatre’s Praise Ncube is nominated for Outstanding Theatre Actress, standing alongside Memory Zikhali of Grand Taimaz and Nomvelo Behane of Without a State, further highlighting female excellence within the region’s artistic landscape.
What stands out across all nominees is their shared commitment to uplifting Ndebele cultural expression—through dance, language, costume, and storytelling. The BAA stage this year becomes more than a competition; it becomes a platform affirming the value of preserving ancestral memory.
Each production reflects the resilience, rhythm, and philosophical depth of Ndebele tradition, reminding audiences that the arts remain a living vessel of identity.
As Bulawayo prepares for the awards night, the spotlight shines brightly on creators who continue to honour and elevate Ndebele culture for future generations.
