Joburg Theatre to mark #AfricaMonth with a special programme celebrating African talent

Remembering Tuku

Remembering Tuku, a two-day spectacular performance from 29 to 30 May 2021, will feature Africa’s Vusi Mahlasela, Selmor Mtukudzi, Madosini, Steve Dyer and Ami Faku with a live band that will be paying tribute to the legendary, late Oliver Mtukudzi, renowned for being a cultural icon globally.

“Now more than ever is the time for collaboration and circulation of local content with the global market. The pandemic has presented a great opportunity for creatives and institutions to position themselves for local and international markets, bridging and challenging the artistic divides,” says Xoliswa Nduneni Ngema, chief executive officer of Joburg City Theatres.

“As an artistic director, I don’t always perform but will come on board to enhance on a few of Tuku’s popular songs such as Neria given my relationship with Tuku,” says Dyertribe director Steve Dyer.

The Big Band Jazz Festival  

Joburg Theatre kicked off the month with a live concert celebration titled The Big Band Jazz Festival produced by Oupa Salemane, which featured award-winning MTN Joyous Celebration, Siya Makuzeni Big Band Orchestra and Mandisi Dyantyis.

The theatre has been at the forefront within the arts industry by creating and curating content during the pandemic by having performances on stage and the digital platforms, catering for patrons of all ages.

Rhythm and Blues Concert 

Joburg Theatre will also host the Rhythm and Blues Concert directed by Roshnie Moonsammy, director of Afro Arts, on the Lesedi Stage later this month. The concert features contemporary vocalist Bonj and bassist Aus Tebza, who has toured and recorded internationally. In addition, Standard Bank Young Artist award-winner, trombone player, vocalist and composer Siya Makuzeni will also make an appearance. Other featured artists performing will include piano maestro Yonela Mnana, The Brother Moves On, Albert Frost, Andre Kriel from Black Cat Bones, actress and singer Nelisiwe Sibiya, Themby Khumalo, Femi Koya, legendary SA guitarist Bra Themba Mokoena, Gunshot Blue and vocalist Lindsay McGuire.

Watching from home 

Those that are still wary of being in public spaces can stream theatre performances from the comfort of their home and enjoy a truly global project and celebrate Africa Month, with a series of six new showcases co-curated with Cultural Connections Africa and Serious, as well as a selection of shows from the Indaba Is take-over, which is produced by Siyabonga Mthembu, lead vocalist in the Brother Moves On Band. Streaming from 24 to 28 May 2021 on the Joburg Theatre Facebook page.

All Covid-19 protocols are in place for all live performances. Tickets are on sale on the Joburg Theatre website.