Times of Zambia | NATAAZ plans to host theatre festival in Kitwe

Published On July 30, 2016 » 1800 Views» By Davies M.M Chanda » Features

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THE National Theatre Arts Association of Zambia (NATAAZ)has confirmed that it is organising a theatre festival in October from 27th to 29th. The event will take place at Kitwe Little Theatre, which was recently refurbished by Mopani Copper Mines (MCM).
Chibale said the period between today and the festival dates short, but that theatre groups were expected to adhere to various obligatory guidelines which among others include immediate payments of affiliation and individual membership fees by October 15.
The festival, Chibale explained will resemble most of the usual and common rules of admitting contemporary and topical plays with themes that highly kowtow and adapt to local or African society and have outstanding relevance to the social, cultural, religious, economic and political scenario of the local society.
For purposes of logistical planning and organization the NATAAZ boss said participants per group should not exceed ten, and that disciplined artists would be the key to a successful festival. It is expected that all the activities on the program would be pursued; the itinerary of events includes watching performances, workshops and discussions.
Chibale said illustrious efforts are being made to secure accommodation and meals if not at a nominal fee or affordable cost, then freely; hence payments of all the necessary fees should be a priority for all the groups. He said with appeals sent out for financial assistance from the corporate world in hosting the festival, it is NATAAZ’s view to supply all the necessary facilities.
“We are expecting groups that wish to participate to affiliate first by October 15 by paying all the dues; K1500.00 which include affiliation and participation fees failure to which particular groups should not take part in the festival,” Chibale said.
Other fees are individuals’ affiliation of K50.00 per participant, but for all those in the group.
Chibale said a firmed programme will be produced soon after receiving names of theatre groups intending to take part in the festival, which should be adhered to.
“The idea to allow for groups to know when and what time their performance should come in advance, is aimed at the prime for the theatre groups to prepare adequately. Therefore, we will not expect changes over flimsy excuses as this guide will help the public to plan to watch some plays,” the NATAAZ chairman signaled admitting residents on the Copperbelt should excitedly enjoy theatre during this period.
Implemented, the program would relieve most theatre goers and fans on the Copperbelt to decide which plays to watch. Additionally, Chibale said participating theatre groups will be expected to submit three hard copies of their scripts for advance perusal by the Zambia Panel of Adjudicators (ZAP).
Last year, the NATAAZ committee failed to organize the theatre festival, earlier set for primarily, Livingstone. which primarily was set for Livingstone citing financial difficulties.
And during the solidarity march past against political violence ahead of the general elections on August 11 a fortnight ago, Chibale exuded NATAAZ’s failures saying once not supported the theatre institution cannot bear fruit. He similarly agreed that NATAAZ’s role was one of decisive determination which once financially buoyed Zambia can attain a high standard of culture through theatre.
During the event Given Lubinda, minister of agriculture and former Kabwata Member of Parliament was admitted as NATAAZ’s patron, a role the theatre body has only made after 30 years of existence.
Chibale feels, with a patron of Lubinda’s influence, it would be easier to source for funds, and make ‘trusted friends’ in the corporate world.
It is presumed the gathering of theatre artists in Kitwe will culminate in to a convention during which time a new committee of NATAAZ will be ushered into office. Chibale said the modalities of the convention will be communicated alongside the festival program later.
The convention is planned for Sunday, 30 October – being the last day of the festival beginning at 09.00 to 13.00 before the theatre groups’ departure.