By Fanuel Viriri
Borrowdale dance remains a unique and authentic part of Zimbabwean culture.
The dance moves, energetic and untamed like a galloping horse, paint a vivid picture of the country’s vibrant culture.
The Borrowdale dance mimics a galloping horse, thus being named Borrowdale, not the course, but the galloping horse rode by nippy jockeys.
The dancers’ arms move back and forth, symbolizing a jockey whipping a horse with a riding crop.
The dance is characterized by rapid, delicate footwork, almost like “nibbling” the ground with your toes.
Some critics argue that Borrowdale dance is a fusion of the old Chibhasikoro dance, but researchers say there’s a clear distinction between the two, with Chibhasikoro dancers appearing as if they’re riding a bicycle.
Borrowdale dance rose with the Museve genre, influenced by the strumming guitar. It’s a quintessential Zimbabwean dance, deeply rooted in Shona culture. Its unique, energetic movements are punctuated with nimble footwork.
This dance has been part of Shona communities at growth points, farming, and mining areas.
Alick Macheso popularized Borrowdale dance with his 1998 album “Magariro” and the hit tune “Pakutema Munda” He accompanied it with a video doing some fancy Borrowdale dance.
While it’s debatable who originated Borrowdale dance, it’s clear that when Macheso rose to fame, so did Borrowdale dance. Macheso added swag and polished Borrowdale, as did dancers Franco “Slomo” Daka and Majuicy.
Macheso, the granddad of live performance, incorporated Michael Jackson’s moonwalk into Borrowdale dance.
Yester-year artists like System Tazvida, Chazezesa Challengers, Hoseah Chipanga, and Devera Ngwena Jazz Band showcased similar but different styles.
Hoseah Chipanga has his own unique dance style, often referred to as “Kwachu Kwachu” or “Bata Mhashu”.
Chipanga shakes his body like reed in a river then appears to nibbling the ground with his feet Though limited, his style remains his own repertoire.
Crooner Oliver Mtukudzi and Picky Kasamba had their own “katekwe” dance. Katekwe is associated with the Korekore people but Tuku put some urban feel to the dance.
Borrowdale dance continues to grow and has quietly been exported to Europe. It’s taking the world by storm, representing Zimbabwean culture abroad, especially in Europe.
It’s become a national symbol, just like Mbende (Jerusarema), recognized by UNESCO in 2005.
If Borrowdale’s global buzz keeps growing, maybe it’ll follow in those footsteps and get UNESCO recognition.
Time will tell!
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