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Each year Zimfest provides the opportunity for a large number of Zimbabwean music
lovers to come together. At the past ten festivals, many topics have been discussed
in forums, village meetings, and other settings. These events have provided a space
for us to discuss issues of mutual importance, make plans for the future, and share
perspectives on a wide range of ethical issues. We have brainstormed and planned how
we can give something back to Zimbabwe. Many of us have come to know each other
better as the community has grown.
The following events are free and open to the public without any registration
process. Just show up. We encourage you to participate in these events and to share
your thoughts freely.
Welcome
Friday, 9:30-10:00 am
Welcome, everyone, to the 2002 Zimbabwean Music Festival in Seattle. Let the music
and sharing begin! This Friday morning welcoming will be brief, as we are aware that
many festival attendees will still be on their way. An official Opening Ceremony will
be held at 7:00-7:30 pm, just before the start of the evening concert.
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Panel Discussion: Musicians and the Performing Arts in Zimbabwe Today
Saturday, 10:15-11:45 am
A panel of the visiting Zimbabwean musicians, who represent a rich cross-section of
musical experience, will share their perspectives on the state of the performing arts
in contemporary Zimbabwe. They will speak of their experiences and struggles as
musicians striving to earn a living through their art, and address such issues as the
support of public institutions and the status of musicians within the society. Bring
your questions for a lively interactive session!
Global Village Meeting and Zimbabwean Guest Forum
Sunday, 2:45-4:15 pm
In this open community discussion we have set the agenda to begin with the specific
topic of Zimfest 2003 and beyond, and then we will throw the discussion open. Last
year Farai Gezi announced his hopes to stage the Zimbabwean Music festival in
Zimbabwe in 2003, and we hope to hear more about the progress of these plans. Where
will the festival be held in future years, and who will do the work of organizing
them? If any communities are interested or willing to host an upcoming festival, this
is the time for you to step forward with your proposal. Participants will then
discuss the pros and cons and move toward decisions on the best course of action.
During the second half of the meeting we will hold an open forum with our Zimbabwean
guests. As with last year’s guest forum, this session will provide an opportunity to
hear from visiting Zimbabwean musicians about their perceptions of the Zimbabwean
music community in North America and whatever else they would like to share.
Questions and comments from all participants are welcome and encouraged!
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