Christon Bank will once again play host to the unique Miombo Magic Music Festival this weekend. Gates open at 2 pm this afternoon (Friday 27 May), and the fun continues solidly through till sunset on Sunday, 29 May.

Fast becoming a favourite on the Zimbabwean music calendar, Miombo Magic is unique in its format. Festival-goers bring their tents and camp on site in a beautiful natural setting on a hill top looking over the Mazowe valley.

The festival, which was conceived as a fundraiser for the local Christon Bank primary school, is known for its commitment to diverse local musical talent. Highlights this year will range from the melodious vocals of up and coming star Gemma Griffiths to the raw energy of Ammara Brown, the singular talent of Rob Burrell and the crowd-pleasing stage presence of Jah Prayzah. There will even be a rare appearance from Zimbabwe’s only heavy metal band, Dividing the Element.

Speaking to Harare News this morning, festival organiser Gus Le Breton said that they were please with the bit of rain that came down this morning. “The drizzle has settled the dust and softened the ground nicely for camping. It’s warmer here than in Harare, and the sun is expected to shine later today and tomorrow. Conditions are perfect and we’re expecting an amazing festival,” said Le Breton.

Here is a tiny taste of the amazing local artists that will perform.

Tickets are available from Pariah State in Borrowdale or online at www.miombomagic.paynow.co.zw.