Picture: The acting CEO of Mmabana Foundation, Wessel Morweng/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
The acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Mmabana Foundation, Wessel Morweng said, his stakeholder engagements with artists and local business people in Taung were fruitful. Morweng had a consultative engagement with local business people and artists in preparation for the Taung Cultural Calabash event that is set to take place in September 2023. Â
“This is the first of many engagements that our entity will have with various stakeholders. During the meeting, the Mmabana Foundation presented its exciting plan to artists. The Taung Cultural Calabash will feature two main programs that will unfold leading to the main event.
“We will have auditions on 22 and 29 July and the date will be extended to 5 and 12 August 2023. Auditions will be held in various districts across the North West province. This will provide a platform for talented artists to showcase their skills and creativity,” he said.
Morweng further said, the final competition date will be communicated in due course, but the proposed date is on 2 September 2023. He added that the proposed date for the Taung Cultural Calabash main event is 23 to 25 September 2023.
“These festivities will encompass a range of exciting events, including a Kgotla event, music festival, lifestyle market, and theatre productions. The aim is to create a vibrant and inclusive celebration of arts, culture, and creativity. The Main Festival is going to be outsourced to a service provider over a three-year period effective from 2023.
“During the stakeholder engagement, artists had the opportunity to voice their concerns and provide valuable advice regarding the festival plan presented. The Mmabana Foundation actively listened and took these inputs into consideration.
To ensure effective collaboration and inclusivity, a Taung Cultural Calabash committee of relevant stakeholders will be formed,” said Morweng.
He said the committee will play a pivotal role in shaping and organising the festival. Morweng said he is thrilled to witness the North West creative sector coming together to celebrate the Tang Cultural Calabash festival once again.
“Please, stay tuned for more updates and let’s prepare for an unforgettable showcase of talent, diversity, and the rich cultural heritage of our province. Please note that the dates might change, however, that is the proposed plan,” he said.
The Guardian 