Comedian Gogo Eswatini Recalls Meeting King Mswati III at Royal Theatre Night

Comedian Gogo Eswatini has recalled his encounter with His Majesty King Mswati III at the Royal Theatre Night hosted at Ezulwini Palazzo. The event was attended by the King and visiting Azerbaijani businessman, musician, and property developer Emin Agalarov. Gogo Eswatini and his comedy partner Slwane performed at the event. After their performance, Gogo Eswatini managed to approach and greet the King despite a bodyguard initially attempting to stop him.

Reflecting on the encounter, Gogo Eswatini described being overwhelmed by the moment and the honour of meeting the King. He said he froze for a second and prayed for courage, asking God to take the wheel. The comedian said the handshake left him humbled and grateful. He hoped the warm reception from the King, his guest of honour, members of the royal family, and other guests was a sign that their work was making an impact.

Gogo Eswatini revealed that they held a preparation session on Friday to review their material, make changes, and agree on how they wanted the show to come across. The response they received afterwards suggested to them that the effort had paid off. The comedian said they took it in their stride and trusted God to be at the wheel. He described the reception as something they would remember for years.

The experience had also strengthened their belief that humility was important to their growth as entertainers. Although comedy comes naturally to them, Gogo Eswatini said performing before the King pushed them to raise their standard. He said it leaves them inspired to work even harder and aim higher. For the pair, the occasion added meaning because it was their first performance before the King and his distinguished guest.

Cultural expert Indvuna Lutfwacula Fakudze said receiving a handshake from His Majesty King Mswati III is more than just a memorable moment. It is also a sign of good luck and a special privilege. Fakudze said getting a handshake from the monarch was something people should appreciate. He explained that not everyone gets the chance to stand before the King, making such encounters special and worth remembering.

Fakudze said people who received this honour should value it because it was an opportunity that did not come around often. For Gogo Eswatini, the handshake was particularly meaningful as it followed his first performance before the King and his distinguished guest, Emin Agalarov. The comedian had earlier described the moment as overwhelming.

Gogo Eswatini and Slwane now hope to carry that energy into their upcoming work. Gogo pointed to their videos and a show scheduled for Ermelo on Saturday as the first opportunities for audiences to see what the experience has inspired. A royal handshake is considered a blessing, and the comedian is grateful for the experience.

Key points

• Comedian Gogo Eswatini met King Mswati III at Royal Theatre Night and described the encounter as memorable.
• The handshake with the King was a sign of good luck and a special privilege, according to cultural expert Indvuna Lutfwacula Fakudze.
• The experience has inspired Gogo Eswatini and his partner Slwane to work harder and aim higher in their comedy career.