09 Jul 2025

 The inaugural Dining with Diamonds show has the potential to become a hallmark event in Botswana’s entertainment calendar, setting a precedent for future collaborations in the arts and hospitality sectors.

Presented by Brand Botswana in partnership with Opulent Entertainment Group, the event scheduled for July 11 at the Grand Ballroom of Hotel 430 will see the venue transformed into a diamond-themed wonderland, showcasing Botswana’s legacy of luxury and elegance. This innovative concept merges the sophistication of fine dining with the vibrancy of live musical theatre. 

In an interview, Denim Richards, founder and CEO of Opulent Entertainment Group, promised attendees a once-in-a-lifetime experience. An accomplished American performing artiste with over two decades in TV, film, and musical theatre in Hollywood, Richards is currently known for his role as Colby in the hit series Yellowstone.

He described the event as an enchanting experience where ‘the table is set for royalty, and every course tells a story’.  Guests will be treated to a five-course meal, premium wines, and entertainment from a 15-person live orchestra, featuring 20 local artistes affectionately referred to as Botswana’s home grown diamonds. The primary objective of this dinner theatre is to establish and fund an international creative conservatory based in Botswana. 

“This space will be dedicated to training and elevating Botswana’s already talented creatives in acting, singing and dancing,” he explained.

Participants will reconnect with their theatrical roots during a 12-week intensive programme led by an international team of entertainment professionals. The event aims not only to revive Botswana’s rich theatrical culture, but also to expand the creative economy, creating sustainable job opportunities. 

Currently, around 35 individuals have been contracted behind the scenes, showcasing the extensive opportunities arising from this major event. This blend of culinary and artistic excellence is poised to attract both locals and tourists, fostering a greater appreciation for Botswana’s cultural scene. 

Richards confirmed that Jonathan Procter, Group CEO of Primedia Group, along with his South African delegation, will attend. Monde Twala, senior vice president and general manager at Paramount Africa & Lead BET International, will also be present. Notably, 95 per cent of the artistes participating have recently graduated from the University of Botswana and they include talents such as Sebaga Thipe, Tshegofatso Kgomotso, Unathi Kerebotswe, and Thebe Moraladi.

To partake in this extraordinary experience, there are 15 corporate tables available for sale, which strategically bring together the public and private sectors. Richards noted that the creative economy is often seen as not a viable financial investment.  The initiative aimed to enhance the value proposition of the show. Corporate packages have already been sold to diverse companies, including KGK Diamonds Botswana, whose diamonds pieces will be modeled by some performers.

Other attendees are Brand Botswana, BITC, Air Botswana, National Arts Council, Bank Gaborone, and the Ministry of Trade and Entrepreneurship, among others. This collaboration offers an opportunity for significant corporations in the public and private sectors to unite. Richards mentioned plans to organise another show for the general public in a larger venue at a later date.

“Our focus is on longevity and sustainability, and we’re excited about the future of Dining with Diamonds beyond Gaborone. We ultimately envision taking the show on the road to places like Maun, Kasane, and other iconic locations across Botswana,” he shared. 

He noted aspirations to diversify the tourism experience beyond traditional game drives by integrating elements of creative tourism - immersive, live performances staged in culturally and environmentally significant areas. Richards underscored their commitment to artistes beyond the stage, highlighting that all performers are compensated promptly for every rehearsal.

His company is dedicated to establishing a model that uplifts the creative economy and positions Botswana as a leader in innovation-driven tourism. This event is a curtain raiser to many other similar events to be delivered by Opulent Entertainment Group in the home soil. ENDS