The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
ZIMBABWE Prisons and Correctional Service Band (Manicaland) is geared to make a mark in the mainstream entertainment scene with commercial public performances.
The Prisons Band, which has been providing entertainment to inmates and sometimes visitors, is now a professional entity and has revved up its quest to stardom through performances at entertainment venues.
The 23-member band recently shocked scores of revellers who thronged entertainment joint, Rozvi Leisure Centre, after putting up a sublime performance.
The band’s versatility and exceptional marimba-playing was first class.
Prison officers clad in ZPCS uniforms added glamour to the event with their energetic dancing skills and choreography.
It was exciting to note that every band member could play at least two musical instruments.
They enthralled revellers with a blend of cover versions and own compositions, with afro-traditional instruments such as hosho (rattles), marimba (xylophone), mbira (thumb piano) and drums spicing up the music.
In an interview with Post Entertainment, ZPCS’ Manicaland public relations officer, Chief Correctional Officer, Liberty Mhlanga said entertainment is vital for rehabilitation process.
“We established the ZPCS Manicaland Band to support the tourism and entertainment industries in the province.
Just like ZPCS Band in Harare and Ntabazintuna, we now have our own entertainment entity that is ready to conquer.
“Those who witnessed the group’s performance last weekend can testify that the band is there to stay and we are calling for everyone’s support.
The band has also played a crucial role in rehabilitating offenders through art.
“They have been nurturing inmates with artistic skills since entertainment is vital for the rehabilitation process. Entertainment is a therapy and we are happy that besides entertaining inmates, the band has stepped a gear up to commercialise the brand.
“The band is now available for events such as funerals, weddings and other public and private functions.
“So far, we have equipped the band with traditional instruments such as marimba and hosho and we are looking forward to equipping the band with other instruments so that they will be versatile and match other bands, but we are happy with the progress made so far,” said Mhlanga.
