The ManicaPost
. . . set to tie the knot this weekend
Liberty Dube and Luke Mafere : Entertainment Correspondents
“BECAUSE you are special, we are cordially inviting you to a wedding of the revered Gilbert Kutaika, popularly known as Man Gidza. The wedding and family will be held at the Pipeline Arena, Number Six, Chineta Road in Sakubva on September 17 and will be hosted by Murapa Tavern management,” reads an invitation sent to The Weekender recently.
Yes, it is true, the lanky entertainer has finally found the love of his life and will be exchanging nuptial vows this weekend in a potentially-intriguing wedding that is set to draw scores of people from sprawling suburbs of Sakubva, Dangamvura, Chikanga and surrounding areas.
The event starts at 11am with a long-winding convoy from the Meikles Park in Mutare’s Central Business District, through the Sakubva Swimming Pool and around Sakubva to the wedding venue (Pipeline Arena).
Organisers of the wedding withheld the name of the bride, saying they would want to surprise guests. The wedding is also part of a fundraising programme that is set to benefit Man Gidza and his less-privileged family.
“Despite his slight mental challenge, “Man Gidza” is a darling of all in the eastern border city. He graces virtually all weddings and other public gatherings in Mutare and entertains the audience with his immaculate dances. Murapa Tavern has seen it worthwhile to extend a befitting recognition to his free services through hosting this event, partly as a fundraising project for his well-being.
“He stays with grandparents (Sekuru naMbuya Kutaika) at Number 97, Mazhambe, who can no longer fend for themselves, so we have decided to tap into Man Gidza’s capabilities and popularity for his and their benefit. You are, therefore, being cordially invited to Man Gidza’s action-packed wedding and extend a gift of your choice to him,” said one of the organisers. His family representatives will be there to take account of all the gifts.
A galaxy of local entertainers such as musicians dance groups will be there to add pomp and fanfare and work in unison to raise funds for the “celebrity”.
He rose to fame in 2001 through dancing at private and public functions, particularly at Sakubva Stadium during soccer matches and state events such as, Independence, Heroes and Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day.
Sungura musician, Alick Macheso’s plug track, Gungwa, off the album Tsoka Dzerwendo, is one of his favourite tracks and Man Gidza can showcase some waist-wriggling dances that would make Macheso’s lead dancer, Selemani “Majuice” Mupochi green with envy.
He usually leaves people clamouring for more. He can dance to any musical genre, talk of rave, traditional country, sungura, rock, jazz and roots reggae.
In a recent interview, he confirmed that he had found a soulmate.
“People recently spread rumours that I had died, but as you can see I am alive. I found the right woman and I am wedding soon,” said the ever-smiling, yet shy entertainer before walking away.
The organisers appealed for assistance in terms of cash and resources such as tents, stage, benches, transport, food, refreshments, video filming, balloons, décor, wedding gown, cake and bridesmaids’ dresses so that the event will be a success.
Anyone willing to assist should contact one of the organisers on 0716361995 or 0715-118036.
