For 26 years, Umkhathi Theatre Works in Bulawayo has been entertaining and inspiring audiences with their unique performances and the group has won numerous accolades over the years to become the mainstay of the cultural scene in the city.
Established in 1997, their work has covered a range of topics, from social issues to cultural celebrations and they have collaborated with different artists. The group has also been a training ground for many young artistes, who have gone on to have successful careers in the arts.
This week, the dance ensemble celebrated its 26th anniversary in the competitive showbiz industry in Zimbabwe. They are truly a treasure of Bulawayo and Zimbabwe and an inspiration to all who experience their work.
The group's approach to theatre is deeply rooted in Zimbabwean traditions and culture, but they also bring a modern sensibility to their work.
They are known for their use of music, dance, and storytelling to create compelling performances that engage the audience on multiple levels.
They have also been at the forefront of using theatre as a tool for social change, addressing issues like HIV and Aids among others. They have extensively toured Zimbabwe and beyond, and their work has been seen by audiences all over the world. The group proves to be truly a testament to the power of theatre and the arts to make a difference in the world.
On Tuesday last week, the dance ensemble celebrated their milestone on social media saying: “Today marks twenty six years of Umkhathi Theatre, we are proud to reach this milestone. Thanks to everyone who has supported us in this journey. Forward ever!”
Umkhathi Theatre Works founder, Matesu Dube told Standard Style that, for the past 26 years, they have changed their approach and introduced storytelling to their dance shows, which has led to more understanding of African traditional dance.
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“Storytelling is one of the oldest art forms in Africa, performing it with African traditional dance gives our show a dimension that has been missing in the past productions. "Most people know that when you need entertaining traditional dance in Bulawayo, Umkhathi is your perfect choice. We are the custodians of our cultural dances,” he said.
Dube shared the group's vision for the future of theatre and how they have adapted to changing technology and the rise of social media.
“Our vision is to be a theatre arts resource centre in Zimbabwe where young people and adults can enjoy locally made live theatre performances. We have also adapted to changing technology by being available on the internet and social media. You can access some of our works online from anywhere. We have had some of our works recorded on video and played on online festivals such as the Zimfest in the US,” he said.
on how the group has dealt with controversy or criticism over the years, Dube said it helped shape who they are today.
“Controversy and criticism will always be there as long as we are in the arts, but we have learnt to consider positive criticism to improve our works. Criticism makes us strong as it makes one do self-introspection. Bulawayo is a royal city and royalty goes with entertainment. We all know that this city has produced great artists from the youth clubs that include Lovemore Majaivana, Dorothy Masuka and others. So as Umkhathi we are in the right direction as we are one of the best of Bulawayo’s premier arts organisations,” he said.
For the past 26 years, the group has produced productions, which reflect the history and culture of Zimbabwe. Dube also said the group used its platform to raise awareness about social issues among others.
“We produced plays that reflect the history of the country such as Bayethe Nkosi which was based on the story of how the Matabele warriors defeated the Pioneer Column led by Allan Wilson. We are involved in campaigns against HIV and Aids stigma. We have created plays and music to raise awareness on such issues. We have done radio plays on Covid-19, we have also produced skits on inheritance.
“We are working on a project to raise awareness on climate change.We have worked with many groups that includes Iyasa and Bambelela that have availed their artists to perform in our productions or vice versa. We have worked with the Intwasa Arts Festival for many years also,” he added.
The group's impact on the city of Bulawayo and the people who live there is immeasurable. They have been a force for positive change and their legacy is one that will continue to inspire generations to come.
