Let the Show Begin!

BULAWAYO THEATRE – Prestigious Geraldine Roche Drama (GRD) Competitions began on a high note at Bulawayo Theatre last Friday with a total of 10 drama groups, from across the city, participating.

Funded by Geraldine Roche of Australia and implemented by the Zimbabwe Development Democracy Trust (ZDDT), the drama competition seeks to promote the arts among the youth whilst developing a medium for positive social change.

ZDDT successfully launched the GRD programme in December last year at a colourful ceremony held at Bulawayo’s Small City Hall.

Registration for the competition opened on January 7 at ZDDT offices with many drama groups showing interest in the unique programme.

Last Friday’s performances ran under the theme: “Arts for Living” and participants battled it out and convincingly demonstrated that arts can also be a source of employment.

For three hours drama groups showcased their skills and talent before a sizeable audience and judges who had come to the theatre to watch the performances.

When all groups had performed, one of the judges, Nkosana Mlibazi, then took to the stage to give the verdict.

Bambelela Arts Ensemble came first after scoring 166 points, followed by Drums of Peace on 163 points and then Umkhumbi Arts, 148 points.

In fourth position was Langelitsha Arts who garnered 139 points, trailed by Jabulani Arts with 137 points.

Mountain Peak Arts came in sixth at 128 points, followed byTaoa who amassed 112 points. Advertising: English courses at school link

On eighth position went to Moonlight Arts who scored 90 points and then Amazing Stars Arts Academy (ASAA) with 86 points.

Youth with Destiny took up the rear 55 points. Fortunately, for all participants, no group was knocked-out on the first day and Mlibazi challenged the artists to go back home and perfect their skills in preparation for this Friday when one of the 10 groups will be knocked out as competition intensifies.