|
HELVETAS DEVOTES MORE THAN M120, 000 FOR SOYINKA'S VISIT | |
|
Helvetas Lesotho has devoted a tune of more than M120, 000.00 to the Art House Association (THAHA) theatre artists as assistance in preparation for the visit of the renowned writer Professor Wole Soyinka, who will be in Lesotho from September 17 to 20. According to THAHA's Advisory Member, Mrs. Limpho Mokhochane, Helvetas has witnessed that bringing a production of Soyinka's caliber to Lesotho will help strengthen the nexus between art and development which have not yet made mark in the history of Basotho. She pointed out that theatre productions in Lesotho are viewed more as entertainment, saying that Soyinka's visit will assist in making theatre production to be viewed critically at what they portray, either through painting or a theatre piece. She indicated that Soyinka's play to be staged in Lesotho which is entitled "King Baabu" will portray good governance as the main theme, adding that it will affect the viewers' outlook on everyday life issues regarding power, greed and how they are handled. She said though the play deals mainly with politicians because they are ever in the public eye, it can set others also on a reflection trail regarding how in their respective environments, they either differ or reflect the same qualities as King Baabu. Meanwhile, the Consul of Ireland and the British High Commissioner have
also promised to extend an arm of financial support to the visit, while the
National University of Lesotho, besides supporting the event financially,
will facilitate the public lecture that will be made by Soyinka himself.
Soyinka's books that have been used in High schools and University level
since early eighties include The Lion and the Jewel, the Trials of Brother
Jero, A Dance of the Forests, the Strong Breed and the Swamp Dwellers. | |
| SOURCE: LENA |