According to LOC CMO Derek Carstens, the ceremony will have a distinctive African feel, with world-class technology and a contemporary, youthful theme.
"Africa's first FIFA World Cup has showcased the unique and colourful spirit and warmth of the African continent and its people. The closing ceremony will pay tribute to that spirit with a world-class production. It will also be a tribute to the football that's been played in the tournament, to the fans and their experiences. It will also be a reminder of what South Africa has offered the world over the last month and encourage fans to come back to our country in great numbers after the tournament," said Carstens.
Columbian pop star Shakira will feature at her second successive FIFA World Cup closing ceremony, performing the hit song Waka Waka with South Africa's Freshlyground. The catchy song has reportedly topped the global music charts in 15 countries and was the most watched video on the Internet in June 2010, with over 75 million views on YouTube to date.
Other artists will include multiple Grammy Award winners Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Jozi, Stoan Seate, Slikour, Zuluboy, Abigail Kubeka, Theo Kgosinkwe, Afrikaans artists Nianell and flutist Wouter, Nigeria's 2Face, Ghana's Samini and popular local traditional group Ihashi Elimhlophe.
Continued Carstens, "While the opening ceremony was more traditional in its approach in order to do justice to Africa's heritage, the closing ceremony will have more contemporary and youthful themes. It takes place at night, which will allow for more dramatic lighting and special effects. We urge those at the stadiums and those tuning in to take their seats early and not to miss what's sure to be a spectacular show."
The Soccer City stadium gates open on Sunday at 2.30pm, six hours before kickoff of the final match at 8.30pm. The closing ceremony starts at 6.30pm and spectators are urged to be seated by 6pm in order to be part of the historic closing ceremony of Africa's first FIFA World Cup.
The commercial display areas at Soccer City will be fully operational from 2pm on final day and will offer a variety of fun-filled activities for early fans, with a number of transport options available from the City of Johannesburg.
