MBABANE — Young Eswatini performers took the stage in Mbombela, South Africa, delivering a powerful production that confronted gender-based violence (GBV) and the psychological toll of domestic hardship on youth today.
The touring ensemble of 20 pupils scouted during the Inyatsi Schools Arts and Culture Competition joined the cast of the international theatre production ‘Igazi’ on August 15.
The opportunity was spearheaded by South African actress Phindy The Real Queen, following an invitation from the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) to identify promising local talent for cross-border collaboration.
Rehearsals were centralised at Swazi National High, bringing together a contingent of primary and secondary school actors from across the country.
The institution with the highest representation was Swazi National High with 13 learners, followed by Ngomane Primary with four, while Gundvwini High, Zombodze High and Vulamasango High each had one representative.
All these learners displayed exceptional talent during the Eswatini Schools Arts and Culture Competition under the Drama and Theatre category.
Beyond highlighting social issues, the production offered the young cast direct exposure to veteran industry figures. The learners shared the stage with established South African television and theatre actors, including Sifiso Sibiya, Patrick Mofokeng, Joram Mkhatshwa and Thulani Mtsweni.
“This platform is a massive milestone for school theatre in Eswatini,” noted Thabo Maseko, Chairperson of Eswatini Schools Drama and Theatre.
The cross-border showcase demonstrated the growing reach of Eswatini’s youth drama and theatre programmes, proving that local school productions can hold space on international stages.
Maseko elaborated that they wish this cross-border collaboration could continue in future years.
“We appreciate the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture for this effort they have given the youth”, he said.
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