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Showbiz Reporter
NATIONAL Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), organisers of the annual National Arts Merit Awards (Nama) are calling on production houses, studios, stables, galleries, organisations, associations, groups, artistes to submit entries for next year’s ceremony.

November 30, 2015 has been set as the deadline for entries which can either be submitted at NACZ offices in Harare or their provincial offices.

NACZ communication and marketing officer, Catherine Mthombeni yesterday said only artistes with works published from December 1, 2014 to November 30, 2015 would be considered for selection.

“Only Zimbabwean citizens or those with Zimbabwean resident status can enter their work for Nama.

“All entries must be accompanied by the artiste’s product(s). These could be in the form of videotapes, cassettes, flash drives, CDs, pictures or books. Individuals submitting works for Nama are encouraged to supply three sets of the particular works/production to assist adjudicators,” Mthombeni said.

The disciplines that will be adjudicated include dance, film, literary arts, theatre, music, visual arts, media and spoken word.

Mthombeni said Nama which is now preparing for its 15th edition is a forum where the NACZ recognises outstanding achievements within the arts sector.

“By rewarding excelling artists, Nama stimulates more interest in the arts and raises the profile of the same. The awards are a means of encouraging creativity and excellence in the quality of the arts, making Zimbabwe a force to reckon with on the international arena.”

In addition, the awards aim to inspire artists to strive for higher and original forms of creativity.

Bulawayo model and actress – Bathabile Dhlamini, Iyasa, poet Likhwa Ncube, Cynthia Mare, music promotions company X-Mo Squad and Tocky Vibes were some of the winners last year.