11 Sep 2022

Kgalemang Motsete Choir (KTM) and Mophato dance group are collaborating in a three-day show as a reminder of how Batswana respect and believe in telling a beautiful story about their culture.

Speaking at the opening of the concert at Maitisong Theatre on Thursday, KTM choir patron, Nonofo Molefhi said it was befitting for the duo, who have made a name for themselves both in Botswana and internationally, to perform together on stage.

Molefhi said he was intrigued by the theme of the show: A re Yeng Batswana, which would demonstrate in song and dance how Batswana lived back in the day and now.

He said the initiative was also part of preserving ‘our culture and showing the world our identity’.

He applauded Mophato, the afro-fusion and contemporary dance troupe, for breaking music trends through excellence and perseverance and KTM, who had, over the years, made strides and continuously displayed cultural practices in song, through their choral music.

Molefhi said winning gold at the European choir games in 2019, in the folklore category as first timers, was proof that KTM were now on an international level.

They have also been invited to the world choir games next year in July in Korea

“In 1993, I had the honour to accompany them in the United States of America as their Public Relations Manager and the youthful choir displayed a great performance and in 2023, I have no doubt that they will do the same,” he said.

KTM Choir Board Chairperson, Lorato Morapedi thanked all for gracing the show to witness a collaboration of two of Botswana’s creative giants.

Morapedi said from its inception 30 years ago, KTM had always prided themselves in telling people their cultural story through choral music.

She said the collaboration between KTM and Mophato was worthwhile, especially that the dance troupe had been giving the industry great contemporary dance, mixed with African dance for the past 10 years.

She said the collaboration also presented an opportunity for the choir to share the Setswana culture with the nation to celebrate this year’s independence and for Batswana to appreciate the two top groups’ music, dance expertise and skills.

The first show captured the sad moment to show the announcement of the first President of Botswana, Sir Seretse Khama’s death.

During the three-day show they will also acknowledge and recognise the heroes and heroines of Botswana and also demonstrate one of the iconic stories of Lentswe la Baratani in Otse village as well as a traditional song called Lekanyane, where they will showcase all the modern Botswana dances. ENDS