K1 000 concert shunned
Gospel songbird Violet Tengani-Dumbah suffered a setback in her music career as the 1500-seater Sheaffer Marquee in Lilongwe hosted just about 200 patrons on Sunday.
The shunned show is a contrast to the successful launch of her latest album Ngati Ukulota in Blantyre recently and comes after the entry fee doubled up.
Since the devaluation of the local currency last month, musicians have been shy to adjust gate charges from K500. However, Tengani-Dumbah, who has always enjoyed good patronage in Lilongwe, pegged her show at K1 000 per head.
The start of the show was postponed from 1.30pm to 3pm due to the low turnout.
The visibly demoralised artist gave an impressive performance that nearly everybody in the hall was seen dancing.
In an interview, Tengani-Dumbah said the show was great despite poor attendance. She promised to revert to old prices when she launches her album in Mzuzu this Sunday.
