By DEO GRATIAS MAGAGULA | 2025-03-22

DZELI the Poet, founder of Divine Artists recently embarked on a journey to South Africa to learn from some of the most respected figures in the theatre industry with an aim bring back the vibrancy of theatre in the country and ensure it is taken seriously once again.

“So basically, I went to consult since we are benchmarking from Joburg Market Theatre,” she shared. "I had a few meetings and also sat in on their classes.

As well as being part of the stage planning for Mantsopa, a theatre production directed by Dr Jerry Mofokeng waMakhetha, who is my mentor in this industry.

As a way of inspiration since I manage Divine Artist Theatre as well, I had to watch The Winnie Mandela play directed by Momo Mantsunyane as well as The Piano Lesson directed by James Ngcobo."

During her time in Johannesburg, she shared that she had the opportunity to meet and engage with some of the actors involved in these productions. "This gave me an opportunity to meet some of the actors as Dr Jerry and his familywere hosting me," she said.

Divine Artists Theatre has been in existence for two years, and its foundation is deeply rooted in the inspiration and mentorship the Baka Ngwane head writer has received from industry greats.
"Meeting Dr Jerry two years ago has opened up so many opportunities for me.

He pushes me to write and produce theatre productions even when I feel like I can't. He inspires me, he pushes me to do the most. So, he called me to come and be part of this so that I'm inspired to keep pushing, not give up. He inspired me to start Divine Theatre Group after taking me to watch Sophia Town two years ago."

She expressed that she is adamant that theatre must reclaim its place in Eswatini’s cultural landscape. "More than anything, I want to make sure that theatre comes back in this country. To make sure that it is taken seriously.

Theatre comes first, film is second. Theatre is alive in almost all African countries except Swaziland, so this is the time."

She went on to explain that her vision extends beyond local productions she aims to take Swati storytelling to the global stage.

“Divine Artists Theatre is about to take over the world telling Swati stories.
We have a rich culture and traditions that the world is hungry for.”

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