From live music and dance to poetry, theatre and visual arts, MTN Bushfire invites established artists to bring their creativity to one of Africa’s distinctive multidisciplinary festivals. Applications are open until 27 November 2026.
What happens when creative freedom, cultural diversity and the power of artistic expression converge on one stage? The result is more than a performance. It becomes a celebration of identity, a meeting of cultures and an opportunity for artists to connect with audiences through the universal language of creativity.
In 2027, MTN Bushfire will celebrate a significant milestone: its 20th anniversary. As preparations begin for this landmark edition, the festival is inviting established artists from Eswatini, across Africa and around the world to apply for the opportunity to perform at the festival, taking place from 28 to 30 May 2027 at House On Fire in the scenic Malkerns Valley of Eswatini.
With artist applications officially open from 27 October to 27 November 2026, the call presents an opportunity for artists whose work reflects the festival’s eclectic, conscious and multidisciplinary identity to put forward their creative offerings.
More Than Music: A Platform for Diverse Creative Expression
MTN Bushfire’s artistic vision extends beyond conventional musical performances. The festival welcomes applications across a broad range of creative disciplines, including live music, DJ sets, dance, theatre, poetry, puppetry, visual arts, film and roving performances.
This multidisciplinary approach creates space for different artistic traditions, contemporary influences and cultural perspectives to share a platform. For African artists, it is an opportunity to contribute to a creative environment that values originality, cultural diversity and meaningful artistic expression.
From musicians drawing inspiration from African heritage to performers exploring contemporary social realities, the call encourages artists to consider how their work can contribute to a programme that celebrates creativity while inspiring dialogue and positive social and environmental change.
For emerging cultural movements and established performers alike, opportunities to present work on platforms that value artistic individuality can play an important role in strengthening cultural exchange and connecting creative communities across borders.
Twenty Years of Bringing the Fire
Reaching a 20th anniversary is a milestone that speaks to the importance of building lasting spaces for artistic expression and cultural connection.
MTN Bushfire’s 2027 edition offers artists the opportunity to be considered for a festival shaped by an eclectic programme and a commitment to creative freedom. For audiences, the anniversary promises another gathering around music, performance and the exchange of ideas. For artists, the open call is an invitation to put their work forward for consideration as the festival shapes its milestone programme.
The message is clear: creativity can travel across languages, nationalities and disciplines, bringing people together through shared experiences. However, artists should ensure that their applications clearly communicate their artistic identity, the nature of their work and how their creative offering aligns with the festival’s multidisciplinary programme.
Who Should Apply?
The call is open to established artists from Eswatini, across Africa and internationally. Artists working in music, DJ performance, dance, theatre, poetry, puppetry, visual arts, film and roving performance are encouraged to review the application requirements and submit their work for consideration.
Before applying, artists should visit the official MTN Bushfire website to familiarise themselves with the application process and any requirements relevant to their discipline.
Application period: 27 October – 27 November 2026
Festival dates: 28–30 May 2027
Venue: House On Fire, Malkerns Valley, Eswatini
Ready to Bring Your Fire?
The countdown to MTN Bushfire’s 20th anniversary has begun, and the artist application window is now open. For artists with a distinctive creative voice and a commitment to artistic expression, this is the time to explore the opportunity and put their work forward.
Artists are encouraged to apply before the deadline of 27 November 2026.
APPLY HERE: https://www.bush-fire.com/artists/
As Africa’s creative sector continues to build connections across borders, platforms that celebrate diverse artistic voices remain important to the growth, visibility and exchange of culture. MTN Bushfire’s 20th-anniversary call invites artists to become part of that continuing conversation.
Bring your fire. Share your vision. Let your creativity speak.
Imbizo Magazine — Embracing Culture, Inspiring Creativity.
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