Urban Music People (UMP) Festival, led by Chitoliro Productionz, has said it is determined to give people an experience with more activities in different artistic disciplines ahead of its 2024 edition dubbed The Evolution in October.
The event debuts at Cape Maclear in Mangochi from October 25 to 28.
And in their quest to satiate everyone, the organisers have added to their bill film showcases to give movie lovers a treat.
The development follows recent announcements Chitoliro Productionz made of other additions such as beauty pageant to this year’s itinerary.
“We are trying to balance and at the same time celebrate arts and culture to the fullest,” UMP spokesperson Marie Thom said.
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The film showcases will see United States of America-based filmmaker Chawezi Chaz Munthali leading film showcase, with actress and radio personality Mwai Simbota as host.
Chaz has since hailed UMP for what he described as a textbook move for the film industry.
“UMP Festival deserves a pat on the back for including movies. This is a good beginning. It is only going to get better. The film industry in the country is growing. There are so many talented writers, producers and actors looking for an opportunity to showcase their talents and work,” he said.
Chaz encouraged budding filmmakers to keep pushing the waves.
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“It does not matter where you start. You can use your own phone to shoot something, create noise and get noticed by other people. You cannot be waiting for a right time financially; you just have to start from somewhere,” he said.
With two films to his acclaim Misnomer and Highbrow, Chaz said he is currently in the course of finalising drama series Mushroom Shade season one.
UMP has since said preparations were at an advanced stage as regards film selection for the showcases.
Simbota said she is honoured to be part of the film showcase as well as having the pleasure of hosting it.
“The art of film is one I am highly passionate about and to have a day dedicated to appreciating the work of Malawians at a festival held on our beautiful sands along Lake Malawi is incredible,” the award-winning actress said.
Several artists are set to perform at the festival and they include reggae group Black Missionaries, South Africa-based artist and promoter Born Afrikan, Hayze Engolah, Onesimus , Phyzix , Gibo Pearson, Temwah , Tuno, DJ Lomwe, Afana Ceez, Bucci, Nepman, Zonke Too Fresh and Trumel.
