INGONYAMA DANCE AND DRAMA GROUP

Ingonyama was established in September 2002 By Hwange Lion Research, a wildlife conservation research project operating within the Hwange National Park.

The young men were recruited from the town of Dete, on the edge of the Park. With the recruits in place, the well-known Malilangwe Drama Group came to train them in drama and theatre techniques. This training, lasting seven intense days, culminated in the group mastering an entertaining play, which carries a conservation message

The group took the name Ingonyama – "King of the Beasts". The conservation-oriented plays incorporate traditional song and dance. Performances take place in schools and community gatherings as well as other public arenas such as the hotels, within the area. The members of Ingonyama have become celebrities in their home area, with children and adults alike in awe of their skills!

The group was employed in March 2003 by The African Centre for Holistic Management in Victoria Falls to train a similar group of young men, thus the momentum of this initiative and it’s success continues to grow.

In addition to this conservation work, the group has continued to develop as a professional Mbube choir to become well recognized for their superior voices and electrifying dancing. Wendy Blakeley, Community Arts Coordinator for Painted Dog Conservation has been their professional and artistic consultant since 2004.

Over the past years they have made several trips to Namibia where they are always eagerly welcomed back, impressing both locals and tourists. They have participated in festivals in both Namibia and in Zimbabwe. In 2006 they were invited to represent Matabeleland North at the Harare International Arts Festival. They are regularly invited to perform at safari camps, hotels and special events venues.

They have cut an album of 17 songs, titled Vumani Madoda which is available on CD. Most of the songs were composed by members of the group PERFORMANCES CAN INCLUDE: songs & dances, animal imitation, their conservation play, and on special invitation, a visit by their "old friend’ Yewuzu Ushe Uba.

Bookings: Mpilo Phahlani 263 11 552 537 or Levi Moyo at 263 11 594 460 OR

Wendy Blakeley 018 475 OR email wendy@painteddog.org