Bushfire 2011 - A celebration of African spirit

The House on Fire is easily one of the most amazing man-built places in Southern Africa. It's basically Swaziland's Owl House, just less depressing. A whimsical mix-match of craft, art, architecture, new Africa and African tradition, House on Fire is a rather odd dream built of cement, ceramic and nzima. And it plays host to the annual Bushfire Festival in Malkerns, Swaziland.

Since it's inception in 2007, Bushfire has grown to a 3-day, 3-stage festival expecting 20 000 visitors for it's 5^th birthday celebrations in 2011. It is one of the most popular International festivals on the African continent and exhibits some of the most amazing, pioneering talent in Africa.

Although this year's acts have yet to be announced, the line-up is bound to be good. Last year saw the likes of Ringo and Freshly Ground from SA and an array of stellar artists from across the continent, including Mozambique, Kenya and Swaziland (of course).

But Bushfire isn't just a musical gathering. It celebrates film, poetry, theatre, dance – if it's an artform, it's there. (OK, there are no mimes. Or clowns. Thank the entire pantheon.) And, most impressively, all the proceeds from the festival go to Orphan sponsorship NGO Young Heroes. 

The 2011 Bushfire Festival runs from 27 – 29 May. Day passes are between R150 – R400 and full festival passes from R400 – R650 pre-booked. You have a choice between regular tickets and a Golden Lounge pass, which gives you access to exclusive seating and a dedicated bar with waiter service. Tickets are available from Computicket.

For more info on House on Fire visit www.house-on-fire.com

For info on Bushfire, visit their website www.bush-fire.com or join the Facebook fan page http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=516102812#!/group.php?gid=18076203888

Check out the Young Heroes organisation at www.youngheroes.org.sz