INKULULEKO Yabatsha School of Arts (IYASA) continue to spread their wings on the international scene as they are set to tour Spain and France as part of their European sojourn next month.
The Bulawayo based arts company is currently going through a rigorous rehearsal programme at Amakhosi Cultural Centre in preparation for their annual European tour which starts March 11.
The high flying and energetic artistes have literally made Europe their second home as their breath taking performances have earned them a huge support base there. 
Back home they still command a huge following, more than a decade after a group of drama enthusiasts came together to form one of the country’s much travelled arts ensembles. 
Director Nkululeko Dube confirmed that everything was set for their tour. 
“We leave in March on the 11th. Ten of our artistes embark on the tour and we are off to our usual destinations that include Austria , Germany, Czech Republic and this year we will also perform in Madrid, Spain and France,” said Dube.
The multi-talented group will debut some of its new productions during the tour. 
“We have a new musical production entitled Africa Celebrate. We have also a new theatre production entitled Do You Jodel. We also make a return to Europe with our popular shows China K, Umntwana WeAfrika, Schlaf Gut Susser Mond, Girafika, Amanzi and others. Over the years we have amassed over 10 different productions that continue to be on demand in Europe,” said Dube.
During their tour last year, the group launched a music album, Amaculo, in collaboration with Austrian musicians Eric Spitzer and Lisa Stern. They will use the tour to promote the new album.
“We will also premier a co-production alongside Dschungel Wien, a young people’s theatre house in Austria Vienna. It is entitled DO YOU JODEl, and directed by Flo Staffelmayr and choreographed by Natalie Fend. I am the music director of the show. The two are currently in the country as part of preparations for the new production,” said Dube.
While on tour, Dube said the other group members will remain behind and continue to perform throughout the country. Advertisement