BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MANZINI – Do you want to trade at the Poetry in Comfort show?
Apply now as stall applications have opened for the highly anticipated ‘show scheduled for December 7, 2024.
This innovative gathering promises to weave together artistry and comfort, elevating the poetry experience to new heights. Set against the tranquil backdrop of Millennium Park in Manzini, the event is poised to be a haven for poetry lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
Curated by Jonokuhle Upholstery, a brand renowned for its luxury and exquisite design, ‘Poetry in Comfort’ aims to provide attendees with an unforgettable experience that transcends the ordinary. The event will feature an impressive line-up of performers, headlined by Festival B, alongside South African poet Landa, and a roster of notable talents, including Fakazi Samuel, MoCats, and Blessing Dludlu.
Sibonokuhle Simelane, the event director, articulated his vision for the gathering, highlighting the intent to create a luxurious and memorable atmosphere for attendees. “We are presenting the art space with a luxurious Poetry in Comfort outdoor concept. It is a self-explanatory idea—we want to provide an exclusive experience for poetry lovers and art enthusiasts, creating lasting memories rather than just an ordinary event,” he explained. The chosen theme, “Let’s Meet over brunch in Poetry and Style,” reflects the organisers’ commitment to blending comfort with creativity.
Attendees can expect elegantly designed spaces equipped with beautifully crafted sofas, embodying sophistication and comfort. The event is structured into three segments, each crafted to highlight various facets of poetry and performance. The first segment, ‘Talent Search/Talent Appreciation,’ is a pivotal initiative to nurture young poets undiscovered. This segment seeks to provide a platform for emerging talents, to share their voices on a grand stage.
“We believe that this will change the poetry industry. We are giving amazing undiscovered talent a stage to showcase their work to the world,” Simelane emphasized. Participants will be categorised into two age groups—ages 11-16 and 17 and above—ensuring a diverse representation of voices and perspectives. This carefully curated approach prioritises quality over quantity, with limited entries to maintain the event’s exclusivity and manageability.
Simelane passionately encouraged poetry lovers, art enthusiasts, and young people to support this vital initiative, to foster a deeper appreciation for poetry within the community.
Tickets for ‘Poetry in Comfort’ are priced at E100 and available at Platinum Barbershop in Manzini.
