Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Trish Mukwazo, trishmukwazo515@gmail.com
THE Bulawayo Amphitheatre was filled to the brim on Thursday evening with school children welcoming the festive season with Christmas carols, decorations, and a vibrant atmosphere. The celebrations were hosted by the Bulawayo City Council in partnership with the Rotary Club of Bulawayo and the Zimbabwe Academy of Music.
Bulawayo residents came from all corners for the event. Students from Falcon College, Girls College, Whitestone, Petra Schools, Montrose High, and Riverdale Academy entertained the crowd. The guests enjoyed a momentous evening of entertainment and live music performances by the school children and Bulawayo’s emerging group, the Band of Misfits.
Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart shared that Christmas carols have a deeper meaning and mark the beginning of a beautiful season.
“It is a great honour to attend this amazing setting surrounded by the warmth of candlelight and the spirit of the season. I am reminded of the importance of community, hope, and togetherness as it marks a season of peace and reconciliation,” he said.
He said that he has attended similar events before, but this one in particular was more vibrant and joyous, as he had the opportunity to introduce young people to the Christmas carols, an event that fosters unity and love.
“This evening, as we listen to the joyous melodies of our talented students and local choirs, let us remember that music has the power to uplift our spirits and bring us closer together. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Rotary Club of Bulawayo for their tireless efforts in organising this wonderful event. Your commitment to service and community development is truly inspiring. Thank you for your dedication to making Bulawayo a better place for all,” said Coltart.
He further highlighted that everyone should spread love in every place.
“I encourage all of you to carry the spirit of this evening into your homes, neighbourhoods, and hearts. Let us work together to spread kindness and goodwill, not just during the festive season but throughout the coming year,” he said.
The president of Carols by Candlelight, Arnold Mahonye, highlighted that before being taken over by the Rotary Club, the programme was first staged in Bulawayo by John Barham and Miss Una Etheridge with the assistance of a small band. Carols by Candlelight started in Australia in the 1930s by a well-known Australian radio personality and broadcaster, Norman Banks.
“We are delighted that this year we have been joined by The Zimbabwe Academy of Music and a number of school choirs organised by Jeanette Delport. We are grateful to the Municipality of the City of Bulawayo, which has allowed us to use this Amphitheatre free of charge and has assisted in many of the practical arrangements since then,” Mahonye said.
Mahonye appealed to the community to generously donate towards the recently launched Christmas cheer fund, which is aimed at assisting the less privileged this season.
The night was sealed with a sterling performance from the Band of Misfits, who set the roof on fire with their performance of various Amapiano songs. School children and their parents could not get enough as they danced to the beat.
