Denmark Trained Zimbabwean Filmmaker’s Zvirimudzimba gaining popularity
By Ronnie Chisamba – Zvirimudzimba, an online series directed and produced by Zimbabwean Denmark trained filmmaker, Artwell Mukonyora – aka Angel Arts – is gaining popularity and gradually bringing fame to its leading characters Baba Tanya and Mai Tanya.
Mitchelle Gore aka Mai Tanya
Mitchelle Beverly Nyaradzo Gore (21) takes up the role of Mai Tanya as Ngonidzashe Matamisa (23) plays the part of the husband: Baba Tanya.
Premiered on YouTube on 2 July this year, Zvirimudzimba has a cast of 5 artistes. The series focuses on the day to day lives of an ordinary African couple.
At its inception an episode was made of about 5 minutes but due to public demand the production team has had to increase the time for each episode. Thirteen episodes have so far been produced and the longest episode is over 20 minutes.
A visit to the Zvirimudzimba YouTube account reveals that the latest episodes have registered over 40 000 views. The initial episodes continue to record an increase in views.
Challenges brought by the influence of tradition are exposed by the leading artistes and the supporting cast. Sadness, happiness, suspicion and unfounded allegations are part and parcel of the series.
Ngonidzashe Matamisa aka Baba Tanya
Mukonyora had this to say about the birth of Zvirimudzimba: “The birth of the series was inspired by everyday African marital lives – what men and women go through in marriages”.
The inclusion of Zimbabwe’s veteran and legendary actor, Lovewell Chisango has added the much-needed expertise and experience among the actors and actresses, the majority of whom are still budding artistes.
“It is an honour and privilege to have the opportunity to work with Chisango,” said Mitchelle.
“It is quite inspiring and motivating to be able to work with him (Chisango),”added Ngonidzashe.
