A gospel festival is set to reverberate the famous hymn “O for a thousand tongues to sing, my great Redeemer’s praise,” at Botshabelo’s Kaizer Sebothelo Stadium.
The Mangaung Gospel Festival was officially launched in Bloemfontein on Friday (03/02) and is set to feature various gospel artists, each with their unique voice.
The festival is scheduled to be staged on 1 April, paving the way for the observance of this year’s Easter celebrations.
This is pioneered by local organisers involved in the music industry and private business. They are Sam Moteoane, Apostle Muso Motsoikha, Mohlolo Mochela, Kegorapetse Melamu and Thabo Mafanyolle.
It will afford the masses and artists a chance to unite and give thanks through singing in various voices, after the global Covid-19 pandemic.
Motsoikha says the idea to bring various gospel artists fits the objective to mark the campaign and reawaken the powerful Holy Spirit and spiritual power.
“The gospel festival is underpinned by hope and good intentions, and brings a fresh breath of hope to mark the revival of the socio-economic situation in Mangaung.
“The selection of Botshabelo has been inspirited by existing opportunities needing an initiative to get people on board.”
The artists billed to perform include national acts, as well as a talented breed of local artists from the Free State, including the Mangaung region. Genres that will be featured include traditional gospel, clap and tap gospel, contemporary gospel, as well as praise and worship.
“Having a host of gospel artists resonates with unity,” says Motsoikha .
Melamu, a music producer, says the festival inspires self-reliance because it encourages locals to take the lead in starting an initiative beneficial and meaningful to bring development.
“The festival will create a platform to discover and nurture a new breed of gospel artists. We are going to feature upcoming artists along with established acts in the country,” says Melamu.
He says after the Covid-19 pandemic, fans are hungry to see their favourite artists and they can look forward to great performances.
The organisers have called on music lovers to support them, making the festival a success.
“The support of the community is fundamental to us in ensuring success and staging it annually in Botshabelo. We want the festival to become an annual attraction in the country,” says Motsoikha.
Tickets are selling for R250, with R1 200 asked for VIP tickets, made available through computicket.com.
