The October International Theatre Festival has kicked off in Eswatini, bringing together more than 150 artists from across the region. The festival, which started on October 3, 2026, has attracted artists from South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. They will share their skills and experience with local creatives, promoting cultural exchange and artistic growth.
The visiting artists conducted master classes in various disciplines, including acting, theatre, writing, dance, and production. These sessions were designed for aspiring emaSwati artists to learn from industry professionals and enhance their technical skills. The master classes were held at various venues, including the Eswatini Theatre Club, where the artists also staged performances as part of the festival.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Senator Pholile Shakantu, welcomed the artists and expressed gratitude to the governments of South Africa, Botswana, and Mozambique for supporting their participation. She emphasized that the exchange program provided local creatives with a valuable opportunity to strengthen their skills and learn from regional artists.
Senator Shakantu also highlighted the significance of the arts in promoting diplomacy and strengthening relations between countries. The minister acknowledged the support of various organizations, including the U.S. Embassy in Eswatini, Alliance Française, Eswatini Theatre Club, and Youini Loku Gallery, which provided venues for the master classes.
The visiting artists expressed their appreciation for the minister's support of Eswatini's creative industry. They also commended the government for investing in the development of local talent and providing a platform for artists to showcase their work. The festival aims to contribute to the growth of Eswatini's creative sector and promote cultural exchange in the region.
The October International Theatre Festival is also expected to contribute to the development of world-class local productions at the new ICC Theatre, which was officially opened by His Majesty King Mswati III. The government hopes that the exchange program will have a lasting impact on the local creative industry and help establish Eswatini as a hub for artistic excellence in the region.
The festival concluded on October 3, 2026, with a showcase of performances by local and visiting artists. The event provided a unique opportunity for artists to network, share ideas, and learn from each other. As the festival came to a close, participants and organizers alike looked forward to future collaborations and the continued growth of Eswatini's creative sector.
Key points
- Over 150 artists from South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Botswana attend the October International Theatre Festival in Eswatini.
- The festival features master classes in acting, theatre, writing, dance, and production for local artists.
- The event aims to promote cultural exchange, artistic growth, and the development of Eswatini's creative sector.
