The annual event features a variety of shows including the ‘Comedy Xperience’, ‘Traditional Xperience’ ‘Main festival Xperience’ and a few others designed to draw attention to the vast artistic value of the province and encourage growth within the local economy, all while boosting tourism. The festivities came to a close this past weekend with the Soul session Xperience and it was a pleasantly stimulating affair.
Needless to say many artists were put out of work since the pandemic started and the restrictions of events and gatherings continues to take a toll on them to this day. This is why a noteworthy aspect of this year’s shows (specifically the Main festival and soul session Xperience) was definitely the lineup made up of 100% Mpumalanga based artists for the first time since its conception, with musicians from Xitsonga music veteran General Muzka to up and coming gems like vocal talent Chilla Flamez. In addition, ‘Gugulethu’ vocalist Indlovukazi and ‘Caracara’ hitmaker KO, both expressed their pride in their province of origin as they performed some of their latest hits.
The significance of this format also highlights the debate around whether or not ‘local’ artists can deliver quality entertainment at renowned events without the presence of national acts to pull a crowd – and the answer is absolutely! It is time to do away with the stigma that homegrown talent does not meet the standard and recognize them for the potential powerhouses that each of them can be with more opportunities of this magnitude. The Department of Culture, Sports and Recreation took a huge leap of faith in support of their performers and it is truly commendable. The stage was also graced by former idols SA contestants from Mpumalanga, Brenden Praise, Karabo, Musa Sukwene, Zama and Brandon Dhludhlu. All of whom brought their personal brand forth to present a soulful performance and leave a piece of their work on stage with the audience. It was truly a special treat to see how far each of them have come since their time on the reality competition and the growth they display through their music. This may be a testament to a need for more platforms for local youth to express their talent.
Some highlights from the Soul Session Xperience included the firework display, a nod to the looming end of the year and more excitingly, the closing performance by surprise act ‘Tag Team’, who delivered an electrifying and show-stopping production complete with fiery drums. It was a truly fitting end to a long list of reputable and amusing shows. Patrons will be reminiscing about the image of a young samurai literally setting the soul session stage on fire while in his element to the beat of his own drum.
Local enterprises were also in attendance once more, ranging from the unique take on chips by vendor Surf’n Fries to famed new addition on the Mbombela scene, Prestige who served beverages and designer service respectively. Some other establishments included a hookah service by Hookah Moguls and a display of a new take on winter wear using blanket fabric by a local designer. This is another nod to the growing start-ups and other business-related initiatives within Mpumalanga.
In conclusion, the annual cultural Xperience is steadily showcasing why it is important for a production like this to exist, from giving young (and old) voices a place to simply be appreciated within their own backyard to generating an interest from the country at large to explore what Mpumalanga has to offer from hospitality, artistry, tourism etc. This year’s edition was truly the DCSR’s ode to some of their own creatives and a bold statement about their willingness to fully support the creative industry.
#MPUCE21 #AnnualMpumalangaCulturalXperience #SoulSessionXperience #MainFestivalXperience.