By Karabo Ntanzi
Masihlangane Productions in collaboration with the National Arts Council held the Annual Masihlangane Festival at Gaska Community hall in Kimberley. Meduduetsane, Dithuto tsa Setso Cultural Group, Amandla Dance Teatro ZA, Limpopo Boys, and Balwela Ngwao Arts Production were invited to perform in line with strict rules of Covid-19. The festival was recorded and later posted on social media platforms.
Founder and producer of Masihlangane Productions Kagisho Lobatsi said, ‘the festival was supposed to be hosted in Kuruman this year, but due to the pandemic, logistics and the technology involved, it was easier to invite a few groups within Kimberley’.
He explained the normal procedure that enables participants to perform at this festival. Masihlangane Productions starts off by making an open call to interested groups or individuals, applicants are then subjected to auditions because it is a developmental festival. The selection process also assists mentors and coaches to design and customize workshops. The contestants who excel at workshops are selected to perform at the main festival and are awarded prizes for their efforts at the end.
The festival has previously been held in Pampierstad, Warrenton and Kimberley, where it attracted a huge interest from cultural and heritage groups from all backgrounds. It also contributes towards job creation and stimulates the tourism industry at the villages and townships where it was held. On average thirty group applicants respond annually, often resulting to more than 120 individual participants and an audience of over 300. Entrance to the festival is free.
According to Lobatsi, although the virtual concert exceeded their expectations by attracting a larger audience then face to face, which is over 500 hits, it took away the excitement of personal interaction between the performers and spectators as well as the spirit of competitiveness amongst the performers.
In addition, the objectives of this festival is to share and exchange creative skills. Pulane Jantjies from Meduduetsane said, “it was for the first time that we were invited to participate in this festival. We are happy for the exposure as it will create opportunities for us”.
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