The central focus of the schools festival will be the workshops headed by South African-born chromatic harmonica player and pianist Adam Glasser, Market Theatre’s Woza Albert! performance team and an old favourite of MTN Bushfire, Steve Barnett, the 'silent conductor'.

Glasser is a true original and a guardian of one of the world's most identifiable national jazz traditions, and he will illuminate the young minds of those attending the festival. “It is often just a small spark of recognition in these kids that sets them on a new path, and music is an excellent way to liberate young minds, especially those in poorer communities,” he says.

Glasser’s workshop will bring students together to find their hidden musical talents. The collaboration will lead to an exciting and emotional ensemble performance by the students taking part. “In every community there is artistic talent and often it is left untapped, but once you get children in a setting like this it is very easy to uncover their strengths. Only then can these talents be nurtured,” he continues.

Steve Barnett, the 'silent conductor', describes himself a motivational 'non-speaker.' Using simple African percussion, he shows how to build true teamwork and communication through the laughter and celebration of making music. The festival kicks off with Market Theatre’s stunning production of Woza Albert!, a highly physical production that will demonstrate the versatility and vibrancy of communication through theatre.

“MTN Bushfire believes that access to the arts should be widespread, allowing people from all walks of life to experience the beauty of song, dance, poetry, theatre, and other forms of artistic demonstration,” says Jemima Yong, festival coordinator.

The Schools Festival is a forum for interschool interaction and provides children with the means to explore the arts and express themselves creatively. “This opportunity to grow through art is imperative, and many schools in Swaziland currently do not have a comprehensive arts education curriculum,” Yong continues.

In addition to its outreach in the youth community, the Bushfire Schools Festival works with teachers and facilitators in sessions of professional development. The teaching workshops encourage the development of comprehensive arts curriculum into schools across the country. “By encouraging teachers to bring arts curriculum into the classroom, the festival hopes to initiate a cycle of creative learning and teaching,” Yong adds.

Standard and VIP tickets, full festival passes as well as one-day passes for the MTN Bushfire International Festival of the Arts are available at www.bushfire.co.sz.

The website also includes information from Swazi Travel on where to stay during the festival, from backpackers and campsites to chalets, B&Bs and hotels.