Inyatsi Schools Arts and Culture champions take the stage

MBABANE— The reigning champions of the Inyatsi Schools Arts Culture, Drama and Theatre Competition take centre stage.

The Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Art featured an extraordinary line-up of stellar performances from standout schools, including Swazi National High School, Ngomane Primary School and Vulamsango High School. These champion schools delivered powerful theatrical presentations that prove the remarkable depth of artistic talent nurtured within local schools.

Genesis Ekucaleni Media Director Minister Pholile Shakantu in her speech delivered by the Chairperson of the Eswatini Tourism Authority Board Penelope Mkhwanazi congratulated the students stating that: “Over the past two weeks, Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Arts has supported the preparation of these three schools by providing a director to work with the learners and help them refine their productions. This is a meaningful investment in young people. It is not enough simply to recognise talent; we must also provide the guidance, training and platforms necessary for that talent to develop”, she said.

The day began with a workshops in dance, a directing workshop, writing and theatre which was facilitated by South African actor Hamilton Dlamini.

Minister Shakantu elaborated that the workshops, forming part of today’s programme further demonstrate that the festival was not only about watching performances. It was also about learning, participation and developing practical skills. Through the Children’s Theatre Workshop, Creative Writing and Poetry, Directing, Dance and Theatre Workshops, learners will be exposed to some of the many different disciplines that bring stories to life.

She also encouraged the learners to take their performances seriously today stating: “To our young performers, take today seriously, but also enjoy it. Do not allow fear to silence the gift within you. Every accomplished artist once stood where you stand today learning, rehearsing and wondering whether their talent was good enough. Your talent is a seed. It will grow through practice, humility, discipline and a willingness to continue learning. You are not merely learners participating in a school production you are the future of theatre and the creative arts in Eswatini”, she said.

Adding regional prestige to the occasion, Eswatini’s young prodigies shared the spotlight with renowned creative groups from neighbouring South Africa. Among the international guests was the acclaimed KwaZulu-Natal ensemble ‘King Qetshwayo’ whose riveting traditional performance bridged historical storytelling with contemporary stagecraft.

The event served as a major milestone for the Genesis Ekucaleni School of Creative Arts highlighting its pivotal role as a pipeline for professional creative talent in the kingdom. By anchoring the champions of the Inyatsi Art and Culture competition.