iWeekend Yo MUTHI
By Siphesihle Dlamini siphesihled@rubiconmedia.group
LADIES and gentlemen, the weekend is upon us.
It’s time to set aside the worries of the week and embrace the joy and excitement that awaits. Eswatini Daily News is here to guide you through the weekend with a curated list of events and activities to make your days merry and unforgettable. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of entertainment and fun as we bring you the ultimate weekend gig guide. 2 UMUTHI FEST
When: Thursday
Where: Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre’s Outdoor Arena
Fee: E150
The festival, a brainchild of Afro-Pop sensation Blaq Diamond in partnership with Megasound Events, is poised to be a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and unity like never seen before. Set against the backdrop of showcasing the finest South African talent and creativity, Umuthi Fest has already garnered attention with confirmed performances by industry heavyweights such as Blaq Diamond, Sjava, Aymos, and Eswatini’s star, Diba Diba. Now, with the inclusion of Mlindo, the festival is gearing up to be a must-attend event for music enthusiasts nationwide. Scheduled to take place on April 18, 2024, at the prestigious Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre’s Outdoor Arena, Umuthi Fest promises to be a day filled with electrifying performances and unforgettable moments. Tickets for Umuthi Fest are currently up for grabs on Computicket, with presale general admission priced at E150 and VIP tickets at E400. For the spontaneous souls among us, fret not, as tickets will also be available at the gate for E200. 2
1-NIGHT-STAND WITH MDURA When: Thursday
Where: 268 Jams, Woodlands Fee: E100
Renowned Eswatini comedian Mdura has once again proven his knack for collaboration by joining forces with the popular food and hangout spot, 268 Jams. Scheduled for April 18, 2024, Mdura will headline a special comedy event, aptly named the 1-Night-Stand, at 268 Jams. With only 50 exclusive tickets priced at E100 each, attendees can expect an evening filled with endless laughter and entertainment. In an exclusive interview, Mdura expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture of collaboration. He highlighted the unique blend of comedy and cuisine that he and 268 Jams aim to offer to their audience. “I am thrilled about this collaboration. I am gearing up to deliver a stellar performance that promises to be a memorable experience for all attendees. A big thank you to 268 Jams for this exciting opportunity,” Mdura shared. Furthermore, Mdura issued a challenge to other organizations to consider partnering with spoken word artists, such as poets and comedians, to ensure they receive equal recognition alongside musicians and DJs. Encouraging fans and comedy enthusiasts to attend the 1-Night-Stand show, Mdura assured them of a night filled with well-crafted humour and entertainment. Unlike typical lined-up events, Mdura emphasized that this show allows him ample time to engage with the audience and showcase his talent. 2
THIRSTY THURSDAY When: Thursday Where: IF’s Lounge Fee: E30
Excitement is brewing as Thirsty Thursday approaches at IF’s Lounge, promising a night of entertainment, delicious specials, and the chance to win big. This Thursday, fun lovers are invited to indulge in a night of music, great food, and fantastic prizes at one of the hottest spots in town. The highlight of the evening will be the tempting specials on pizzas and drinks, with a special offer that allows patrons to win a mouth-watering E200 meal voucher. All it takes is a minimum spend of E250 on drinks to be entered into the draw for this delectable prize. The night will be filled with non-stop entertainment, courtesy of talented DJs who will keep the dance floor packed and the energy high. From Maphi’s fiery set to The Best Duo’s electrifying beats, and performances by Khuni, Maradona, Mckomzer, Mistosoul, and Wacko, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. The MC will be the energetic Thando Ntshangase. To top it all off, the entry fee for this unforgettable night is just E30, making it an affordable way to kick off the weekend in style. And don’t forget to dress to impress, as the theme dress code for the event is smart casual, adding an extra touch of glamour to the evening. 2
FRIDAY GROOVE Where: IF’s Lounge When: Friday Fee: E30
IF’s Lounge is set to ignite with excitement this Friday as the highly anticipated event, Friday Groove, takes centre stage. With a lineup of talented artists ready to bring the house down, this promises to be a night of music, fun, and unforgettable moments for all in attendance. Headlining the event is the one and only UrCousinPhayo, whose electrifying performances and infectious energy are sure to get the crowd on their feet. Joining him on stage will be a lineup of stellar supporting acts, including Mistosoul, Yamkela, and Wacko, each bringing their unique style and sound to the mix. Guests are urged to dress to the nines, with the theme dress code for the evening set as smart casual. Entry to the event is a steal at just E30, making it an affordable way to kick off the weekend in style. With a lineup of top-notch artists, a vibrant atmosphere, and a night filled with music and excitement, Friday Groove promises to be an event that you won’t want to miss. 2
GLORY LIVE RECORDING When: Saturday
Where: Big Top Arena in Carnival City Fee: E300
Eswatini’s Gospel talent, Sphiwo Ndoni is gearing up to captivate Gospel enthusiasts at the highly anticipated Glory Live Recording by the renowned Takie Ndou. Scheduled to take place on April 20, 2024, at the illustrious Big Top Arena in Carnival City, Gauteng, this musical extravaganza promises an evening of celestial melodies and spiritual enlightenment. With a seating capacity of 5000, the stage is set for an unforgettable performance against the backdrop of the vibrant East Rand. The event will also feature Gospel stars including Takie Ndou, Khaya Mthethwa and Benjamin Dube. Sharing his elation on social media, Sphiwo Ndoni expressed excitement for joining forces with the esteemed Takie Ndou, stating, “I’m thrilled to be standing alongside my big brother, Takie Ndou, at the upcoming ‘The Glory Live Recording’ in Carnival City. Who’s coming with me fam?” In a reciprocal display of admiration, Takie Ndou acknowledged Sphiwo Ndoni as one of his mentees, highlighting the significance of featuring the talented artist in this monumental event. “Now this is one of the artists that I have been mentoring, Sphiwo Ndoni from Eswatini. I am so excited to be featuring him on ‘The Glory Live Recording,” read his post. Reflecting on the upcoming performance, Takie Ndou revealed his mix of emotions, confessing, “Returning to the live stage at Carnival City’s Big Top Arena is a dream come true. I hope that these seats will not only be filled with my presence but with souls seeking solace and inspiration.” 2
JOZI KNIGHTS When: Saturday Where: IF’s Lounge Fee: E50
Prepare for a night of unforgettable entertainment as IF’s Lounge plays host to the sensational event, Jozi Knights, this Saturday. With a lineup of talented acts ready to take the stage, this promises to be a night to remember for all who attend. The event will feature performances by a stellar roster of artists, including Smashsoul, Expo, Katz, Miss Lwah, Mistosoul, and Yamkela, each bringing their unique flair and energy to the stage. From soulful melodies to electrifying beats, there will be something for every music lover to enjoy. Guests are encouraged to dress to impress, with the theme dress code for the evening set as smart casual. Early birds will be rewarded with a special offer, as entry to the event is E50 before 9 pm, providing a fantastic opportunity to kick off the evening in style. For those arriving after 9 pm, entry will be E70, ensuring that the party continues well into the night for all who join in the festivities. Get ready to dance, mingle, and create lasting memories at Jozi Knights – the ultimate Saturday night extravaganza. 2
SUNDAY BEST
When: Sunday
Where: Polar Park Guest Lodge Fee: E30
In a bid to provide a perfect Sunday retreat for locals and visitors alike, Polar Park Guest Lodge is gearing up to host an event that promises a day of relaxation and refreshing music. The highlight of the event will be the renowned Rewind Band, known for their soulful tunes and captivating performances. Whether you’re looking to unwind with some smooth jazz or dance the afternoon away to upbeat rhythms, this event has something for everyone. With an entry fee of E30, attendees can enjoy a day filled with good music, great company, and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.