Artists unite to revive EL’s Imbizo venue

IN an attempt to revive Imbizo Jazz Cafe and poetry in East London, three local women have started a monthly event to celebrate artists involved in poetry and hip- hop.

Kualeza Drum Circle serves as a platform for all artists and music lovers to unite and showcase their various skills. It is a relaxing gathering-place where poets, vocalists and instrumentalists get together to share and learn. One of the organisers, Anathi Tiyo, said last year she bought herself a djembe drum but could not find a venue to play it.

“The idea to host the events came once I met up with Vuyo Tshingila- who is also an organiser, and we realised artists did not have a common ground to meet and share their craft with East London,” she said.

“The theme for our first show was Black History, a topic which the audience delved into and we all had a chance to hear different views about our ethnicity,” she said.

This month’s theme will focus on Africa Day celebrations as the continent celebrates the day on May 25.

Tiyo said local artists like Anitah, Rawmentic W, UBizo and Asanda Slam would showcase their talents at the next event.

“Our resident drummers Nish and MakaSkill will be encouraging everyone to take part in this soulful experience,” she said.

The first show, last month realised a good turnout.

“That has encouraged us to grow this cause and make the second show even better,” she said.

Tiyo said they hoped they would instill a culture of unity through art with the support of the community.

“That is the only way that this platform for poets, vocalists and drummers can grow and become sustainable throughout generations.”

Their next show, celebrating Africa is on May 12 at Imbizo Jazz Cafe in Quigney. —