Lerato Matheka

MASERU — Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso and the Principal Chief of Matsieng Khoabane Theko were among the “working-class” audience for the inaugural Poetry Night at Maseru Golf Club on Wednesday.

Budding poets Lyrical Bacteria, Makoae Phooko, Kekeletso Sekhoacha, Nthati Ntšuhi, Mpho Thulo and Kofu Matšaba charmed the audience with their talent.

The mood of the night was set by the Disciples, a group of Christian guitarists, who twanged and strummed beautiful melodies before the poets took to the stage.

The jazz star Bhudaza Mapefane, who was among the audience, was blown away by the performances.

“This is the most beautiful performance I have ever seen in the country,” he told Xpress People.

“What we now need to do is to lend a helping hand to see to it that the talent goes far.”

“This event has forced me to think broader about the development of local art,” Bhudaza added.

“This is what makes us want to continue representing the country and if events like this are held frequently, it will make it easy for a brighter future for Lesotho’s art.”

Opening the event, Maseru Golf Club captain Masuhli Leteka said they were pleased to be involved with a youth development initiative.

“This is the first time that we have hosted an event of this kind and we are very pleased to provide our support and moreover the presence of Her Majesty proves the significance of the gala,” Leteka said.

One of the organisers of the event, Kelello Lerotholi, called for support for local art.

“We always look to international art yet we turn a blind eye to our own talent,” Lerotholi said.

“Tonight marks one of the many initiatives of uplifting local talent and embracing the beauty of our culture. We are exhibiting the potential of Lesotho talent.”