Mbabane will once again host one of its most intimate nights of art and reflection as Poetry & Acoustics returns to Bahle Gallery 112. The monthly series, known for combining spoken word with live acoustic music, has become a valued space in Eswatini’s cultural calendar hosted by Umsamo We Culture.
Director and host Siyanda Dlamini says the gatherings are designed as ‘an evening of exhale’, a chance for people to pause from daily life and connect through poetry, music, and community. Candlelight, stripped-down performances, and the gallery’s scenic setting gives the event its trademark atmosphere of calm and reflection.
The next edition, wrapping up September, will feature South African poet and musician Flex of He & I, whose work is celebrated for blending lyrical storytelling with rhythm. His visit, supported by Concerts SA, forms part of a cultural exchange program that also includes an arts development workshop with local creatives. He will also perform at Malandela’s Lifestyle in Malkerns the following night.
Local poets and artists are specially invited to be a part of this movement, that the sessions are crafted with them in mind and hence an open mic, jam session, where everyone in the audience will get a chance to share their talent without limiting it to a predetermined line up, when all the greatest art is in the room.
According to Dlamini in a press release, bringing international voices like Flex is part of a broader vision, welcoming international perspectives to art into Eswatini and simultaneously exporting our own to the world.
“Poetry & Acoustics is not only about entertainment, but is also about nurturing creativity, sparking conversation, and reminding us of the beauty of slowing down,”
The performances often touch on themes such as love, resilience, identity, and the shared human experience, giving audiences more than a show but also something to carry with them. Calling on all lovers of engaging spaces, poetry, music, serenity to come and take on this soul adventure.
Beyond hosting events like Poetry & Acoustics, Umsamo we Culture plays a wider role in nurturing Eswatini’s creative community. They also offer workshops, consultations, and exchange programmes that give poets, musicians, and other creatives space to grow their craft and connect with wider networks. These efforts extend opportunities to both emerging and seasoned artists, strengthening cultural ties in the region.
At its core, Umsamo we Culture positions itself as a safe and inclusive space for artistic expression across generations, a place where dialogue and collaboration are encouraged.
Tickets are E200, Poetry & Acoustics takes place at Bahle Gallery 112 on 25 September at 7:00 PM, followed by Flex’s Free-entry performance at Malandela’s Lifestyle at on 26 September at 6:00 PM.
For bookings and media inquiries, contact Umsamo we Culture at umsamoweculture@gmail.com or +268 7662 3182.
