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Principal's Message 2025


True to the commitment made by the Premier of the Free State, Me Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, and the Member of the Executive Council for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation (SACR), Me Ntombizanele Sifuba, MACUFE continues to be a catalyst for local artists showcasing. During the launch of MACUFE on 1 August 2025, a clear commitment was expressed pertaining to the need to continue to elevate Free State artists through MACUFE. As preparations for the festival are well underway, the Department of SACR is proud to announce the participation of artists from the Free State in the 2025 MACUFE programme as follows per the three (3) major MACUFE music programmes:

  • MACUFE Hip-Hop vs Amapiano: Out of 20 artists 17 are Free State artists.
  • MACUFE Main Festival: Out of 18 artists 10 are Free State artists.
  • MACUFE Gospel Festival: Out of 19 artists 11 are Free State artists.

A total of 38 out of 57 artists from the three (3) major MACUFE music shows, which constitute 67%, is therefore constituted by artists from the Free State. This strong representation of Free State artists is sustained through other platforms such as:

  • MACUFE Comedy and Poetry show where all 19 comedians and poets are from the Free State.
  • MACUFE Film Festival is constituted by four (4) film productions (Bed News; Blood Film; and Mophando) all of which are by Free State film producers.
  • MACUFE Dance Fiesta programme will showcase dance productions called “Rhythm of Change” and “Motswadi”. The total number of performers in both productions is 25 Free State dancers.
  • The winners of Naledi Ensemble Award, the Free State theatre production called “Coal Yard”, which consists of 05 Free State theatre performers, will be featured under the MACUFE Theatre Festival.

    • The Visual Arts, Crafts and Literature Exhibition will feature 15 exhibitors who are all Free Staters. With all the 2025 MACUFE platforms considered, 121 out of 140 artists (86%) of artists who will be performing during this festival are Free State based. As a multicultural and multidisciplinary programme MACUFE thus continues to ensure the elevation and showcasing of local talent, while also remaining a national and international cultural pilgrimage. The national and international caliber of MACUFE signifies that national and international artists and productions will continue to constitute an important part of this programme.




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