Story by Silibaziso Dlodlo
THE Bulawayo Arts Festival concluded on Saturday with a vibrant celebration of music, dance and film, bringing together artists, performers and culture enthusiasts in a showcase of Zimbabwean creativity and storytelling.
The festival’s closing programme began with performances by Vuyo Brown at Bulawayo City Hall before attention shifted to the Zimbabwe Music Academy for the premiere of Becoming Madam Boss, a film by popular entertainer Tyra Chikocho, widely known as Madam Boss.
The premiere attracted arts lovers from across the city, with dancers and performers entertaining guests outside the venue ahead of the screening.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Honourable Raj Modi, underscored the importance of investing in local creative industries and promoting Zimbabwean stories on the global stage.
“Every time we carry our stories, we yield skills, create jobs, and prove that Zimbabwean cinema deserves a seat at the global table,” he said.
Madam Boss expressed gratitude to Bulawayo residents for their overwhelming support and turnout at the premiere.
“To all the fans, my Bulawayo fans, you have no idea how excited I am. At first, I thought no one would come because people kept saying it’s cold in Bulawayo, but you are here just to support me and my journey,” she said.
Inside the academy, audiences were treated to a film that blended humour, emotion and inspiration, capturing the personal journey behind one of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable entertainment figures.
Viewers described the production as a powerful story of resilience, determination and hope.
“I enjoyed watching the Madam Boss movie a lot. I learnt many things, and at times I found myself crying and laughing. I see it as the beginning of good things for Bulawayo and Zimbabwe as a whole,” a resident said.
“What I learnt from this movie is that you should never give up. Even when people say it is impossible, if you have a dream, follow it,” a citizen said.
“We enjoyed it and learnt that you can start with nothing and end up with something. Many times we wait for something big, yet we can start small and still become successful in life,” a moviegoer said.
The premiere of Becoming Madam Boss provided a fitting finale to the Bulawayo Arts Festival, leaving audiences inspired while highlighting the growing strength and potential of Zimbabwe’s creative and film industries.
