Harare Open Mic is set to make a grand return this Saturday, March 8, at The Garden, Newlands, from 2 to 5 p.m., in celebration of International Women’s Day. The event, which has been running for the past five years, has become a vital platform for emerging artists, offering them a space to experiment with the stage, grow their confidence, and connect with fellow creatives across different artistic disciplines.
By Plot Mhako
Event organizer and poet Batsirai Chigama reflected on the significance of the platform, likening it to the once-thriving Book Café, which was a hub for artistic growth and collaboration.
“I remember a time when this kind of space was offered to us by the Book Café. It was filled with innumerable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and finding one’s feet and voice as a young artist,” Chigama said. “It thrills me to be able to open up possibilities for growth and nurture talent that will one day be big and gracing different platforms.”
This year’s edition has drawn an impressive lineup of over 32 artists, with performances spanning music, poetry, comedy, dance, and theatre. The event is being organized in partnership with The Garden, One Billion Rising, and several other arts organizations.
The lineup includes promising young poets such as Tadana Nakai and Yvonne Matanhire, who will perform alongside seasoned names like Shingirai Manyengavana, Takudzwa Goniwa, Khadijah Finesse, Tamika, Momo Size, and Tawanda Vombo.
Rising mbira sensation Aripheleng Kwela is also expected to captivate audiences with her powerful voice, while hip-hop artist D-Blok, AneUnhu Gwatidzo, Tendai Mhlanga, Nicole Livet, and The Breeze will showcase their musical prowess. Many young voices will also take to the Harare Open Mic stage for the first time.
Chigama noted that the overwhelming response to the call for performers meant that some artists had to be placed on a waiting list for future editions.
“It is encouraging to see the hunger in young artists to perform. I hope, resources permitting, to organize more regular sessions so that more artists can benefit from this initiative,” she said.
More than just an artistic showcase, Harare Open Mic offers a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Chigama encouraged the public to attend and support budding talent.
“If you have a child, friend, or someone who may benefit from this space, bring them along. They may learn a thing or two and be inspired to explore more of their talent,” she added.
With a vibrant and diverse lineup, this Saturday’s Harare Open Mic promises to be a memorable celebration of artistic expression and women’s contributions to the arts.
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Founder of earGROUND, Jibilika and Amplifaya Festival. Creative entrepreneur, cultural producer, award-winning journalist, arts community champion with two decades of dedicated experience.
