Small audiences worry artistes

Dec 11, 2009

THE dwindling audiences in theatres are worrying local artistes, who say they will soon be out of business.

By Francis Emorut

THE dwindling audiences in theatres are worrying local artistes, who say they will soon be out of business.

“One can organise a concert in the theatres and only 10 to 15 people turn up. This is worrying and soon we shall not be able to support our families,” said Kiyimba Musisi, the board secretary of artistes savings and credit cooperative organisation (SACCO).

Musisi attributed the small audiences to individualistic egos of some artistes and television programmes.

He appealed to musicians to unite in order to promote the entertainment industry and support the families of fellow singers.

Musisi made the remarks during the artistes’ re-union party at the Uganda Museum in Kampala on Wednesday.

The artistes SACCO comprises singers, painters, film producers, song writers and creative art workers.

Gen. Elly Tumwine is its chairman.

Robert Tumwesigye, a public speaker, criticised musicians for taking people’s money and failing to perform to the expectation of the audience.

“Some artistes make so many bookings, take people’s money and only sing one song and disappear to another function,” Tumwesigye disclosed.

He advised musicians to be people of integrity so as to attract sponsors who would promote their songs.

Musisi urged artistes to give their audiences good entertainment so as to attract other fans.

He called upon other artistes to join the SACCO so as to access loans at a low interest rate.

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