It is scheduled from May 25 to 27 at the majestic Malkerns Valley, Swaziland.
The fest has had its share of negativity owing to the domestic political issues but now that has been brushed aside, its all system goes!
Songstress Lira, MTN SAMA winner Mi Casa, and Mango Groove, just to mention the few, will be dishing out their favourite hits, expected to be attended by close to 10 000 or so fans.
Backed by the global telecommunication giant MTN, the organisers confirmed the next round of acts that will be appearing on the main programme, ensuring audiences of three days filled with masterful music, theatre, art, dance, performance, craft and all-round good vibes.
Stand-up comedian Joey Rasdien, who’s famous for his role in Material and Bunny Chow, Woza Albert and Mozambiquen Giant Puppets, Saul Williams, and Ayo, look forward to fun times and exhilarating moments.
A special performance by Japanese Sakaki Mango & Limba Train Sound System, who have just won Japan’s World Music Award bring their energetic melodies, sung in a mixture of Swahili and Kyushu Island dialect.
Newly formed group Jika Nelanga (Zulu for “sunflower”), consisting of legendary guitarist Steve Newman and his accomplished partner in the Aquarian Quartet, bass and oudtar player Greg Georgiades, plus master drummer Godfrey Mcgina and Ashish Joshi, playing tabla, dugi and darbuka will be joined by singers Zama Mbutho and Lu Dlamini in what is certain to be an unforgettable musical encounter.
Marionetas Gigantes de Mocambique – aka the Giant Puppets and Ras Haitrm Rastafarian all from Mozambique, renowned Kaya FM DJ Nicky B and top Swazi DJs such as Chuidy, Muscle, Cya, Mfundo, Mseto, Rekorder, Tendaness, Toxik and Swazi hip-hop outfit LIT – Labahambako in Transit – featuring KRTC, have promised to keep fans during the three-day event on their toes.
Audiences will also be treated to exceptional physical theatre from performers Mncedisi Shabangu and Hamilton Dlamini in the iconic play Woza Albert!, written by Mbongeni Ngema, Percy Mtwa and Barney Simon. The revival of this groundbreaking, world-renowned two-hander has enjoyed sold-out seasons at Johannesburg’s Market Theatre, and now Bushfire festival-goers can experience its raw power and insightful satire as well.
Standard and VIP tickets, full festival passes as well as one-day passes for the MTN Bushfire International Festival of the Arts, are available at www.bushfire.co.sz
The website also includes information from Swazi Travel on where to stay during the festival, from backpackers and campsites to chalets, B&Bs and hotels.
