Slated for the weekend at GICC, it is an exclusive affair replete with a hand-picked audience of no more than 800 in attendance. Staff Writer GOSEGO MOTSUMI reports
The 2024 BOMU (Botswana Music Union) Awards are on track to captivate audiences with an event bigger and bolder than ever.
Set for 23 November at the Gaborone International Convention Centre, this year’s show promises to deliver an unforgettable evening themed “Music Beyond” to celebrate the boundless possibilities of Botswana’s music.
Awards organiser, Seabelo Modibe revealed at a press briefing in Gaborone recently that attendees and viewers alike can expect a “three times bigger” experience than last year’s with an ambitious two-hour production packed with artistry and innovation.
State-of-the-art stage
This year’s event is bringing a state-of-the-art stage setup that promises an immersive experience for live attendees and at-home viewers. “The sound, stage and lighting design are a complete departure from the past,” Modibe emphasised.
He went on to say how local production talent has been central to the creative process. In a bid to foster skills sharing, BOMU has minimised external staffing, relying heavily on local experts with only a few international specialists, such as the head engineer, for specialized input.
Scheduled to kick off at 6pm, the red carpet affair will welcome a glamorous parade of style under a sartorial code of Dresses, Suits and Sneakers.
Guests to flaunt their looks
The one-hour Fashion Spectacle is set to bring glitz to the evening, and with a real red-carpet setup this time, guests will have a chance to flaunt their looks as they enter.
Doors will close promptly at 7.30pm in readiness for the main show to start on the stroke of 8 broadcast live on Btv.
From performances by some of Botswana’s biggest names in music to an exciting lineup of four emcees namely DJ Fresh, Petula El-Kindiy, LB Moroen and Jazelle Kebakile this year’s BOMU Awards will be a showcase of local talent.
Select tastemakers
In an effort to create an intimate yet elite setting, only 800 seats will be available at the venue, reserved for the media, nominees, the guests and select tastemakers.
With this limited capacity, the BOMU organisers have opted not to sell tickets to the public, ensuring a carefully curated experience for those in attendance.
Platinum partnership
A highlight of this year’s awards is Okavango Diamond Company as the Platinum Sponsor with P300 000. Other sponsors are the Department of broadcasting services, Vib Mobile, Staged Productions and Events Lab.