Onetsa Luso Stage unveiled
Hospitality service providers Amaryllis Hotel in Blantyre has unveiled a new creative showcase platform dubbed Onetsa Luso Stage.
The curators are calling on actors, poets, musicians, comedians and dancers to hold live performances on Onetsa Luso Stage. Since its introduction, six artists have graced the platform. Angie Tigris and John Fire featured on the platform over the weekend.
The hotel’s general manager Ramy Waheed says the platform is meant to unearth and showcase Malawian talent to a wider audience.
“The objective is to introduce up-and-coming artists through this arts and culture initiative. This is also a form of entertainment to our guests and viewers on the social media platforms. The venture is an exciting opportunity for artists in Malawi,” he said.
The organisers said the show will be conducted twice a week in a random format. Waheed said they have received overwhelming response and at the moment they have already lined up a diverse list of performers.
He said: “Art and culture is a very celebrated form of expression. Through this showcase other artists will be discovered and some will get a chance to network with decision-makers and other individuals who are passionate about arts and culture.”
Waheed said as per their arrangement, the artists are not benefitting financially, but he has expressed his belief in the long-term benefits that artists will tap from the platform both socially and financially.
“The initiative has allowed us to have a feel of other creative work aspects that we were not covering previously. The feedback we have received has also given us room to improve on our delivery,” he said.
Amaryllis Hotel is implementing the initiative in partnership with Entertainers Promotions who are responsible for scouting for possible performers and also the stage and equipment.
Entertainers Promotions director Tonderai Banda said the venture is complementary to their objectives as some of the artists will have a chance to be considered to perform when they host big events.
He said: “Amaryllis Hotel is a hub. So, we want the visitors who come there to appreciate our culture, our music and all the creative work which we do using this platform. The stage is open to everyone. Either budding artists or established ones. The established artists will motivate others when they feature.”
The artists are being requested to send their footage while performing. The vetting process is looking for elements such as style of presentation and value of the content.
Amaryllis Hotel has previously also partnered with All Shades Beautiful Fashion show, Blantyre Arts Festival and Luso Awards, among others.
