September 10, 2007
By Tabisa Mntengwana
THE Soweto Gospel Choir is set to bring some African Spirit to the Joburg stage when it performs in the city later this month.
The Grammy award winners will be performing at the Johannesburg Civic Theatre for seven performances, from 16 to 23 September.
African Spirit, says the choir, explores the different aspects of the human spirit; the spirit of love for one another, the spirit of living together as a nation, and the spiritual love of life.
"Soweto Gospel Choir's earthy rhythms, rich harmonies and charismatic performances create a unique blend of inspiration, soul and celebration of the unique spirit of South Africa," according to a press release.
The world-renown choir performs a range of work – from traditional African gospel to international and contemporary spirituals – in six languages, including English, Xhosa, Zulu and Sotho.
The Soweto Gospel Choir returns home with their new show African Spirit
A quartet, dancers and percussionists accompany the performances.
The Soweto Gospel Choir has become a familiar name on international music programmes, having performed in Australia, London, Singapore, New Zealand and Germany.
Its work has also received global acclaim, winning the Helpmann Award for best contemporary music, a Grammy for best traditional world music, an American Gospel Music Award for best choir, a US Gospel Music Award for best international choir and the local South African Music Award for best live DVD.
"The choir continues to grow from strength to strength, expanding their repertoire to include a wide range of music and performing sell-out concerts throughout the world," said executive and musical director Beverley Bryer.
The Soweto Gospel Choir has performed alongside music icons such as Bono of U2 fame, Peter Gabriel, Queen, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Diana Ross, Johnny Clegg, Jimmy Cliff and Bebe Winans.
The choir also sang at the 75th birthday celebrations for Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
The Soweto Gospel Choir performs at the Nelson Mandela Theatre from 16 to 23 September. Ticket prices range from R80 to R212 per person at Computicket and groups of 10 or more can get a discount by calling 011 877 6854.
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