Black Melody and friends in the spotlight on Saturday
The internationally acclaimed Black Melody Cultural Group (BMCG) celebrate its 32nd anniversary with dance and music in the capital on Saturday.BMCG represents the Batswana community/culture in Namibia. It was established in 1992 by seven young individuals aiming to engage youth in constructive and educational activities centred around cultural expression.
BMCG president Julliette Mogotsi says the group has transformed the lives of many young people over the years by offering safe spaces for cultural interaction while addressing the needs of the broader community. This has been evident through their presentations and performances of traditional songs, dramas, and music genres known as Borankane.
Since its inception, BMCG has grown from seven members to a current membership of between 15 and 35. The group has not only preserved cultural heritage but has also tackled social issues such as poverty, HIV/AIDS and violence.
“The group has stood the test of time, and this calls for a big celebration that unites the nation through culture, music and dance; hence Saturday’s show,” Mogotsi says.
The 32nd-anniversary event aims to inspire other cultural groups and artists to thrive despite the challenges faced. It also seeks to establish a platform for networking and forming partnerships within the cultural sector.
Scheduled to take place at Palm Tree Park from 14:00, the celebration also features performances by six cultural groups, eight music artists, and two DJs. There will also be stalls showcasing various cultural items, and selling food and drinks.
Another highlight is a performance by the Bame Shekuwetane Traditional Group from Botswana, adding a regional/cross-border cultural exchange to the festivities.
Advance tickets are available for N$150 via webtickets.com.na or N$200 at the gates.