Mango Groove back with a Splash

“We're really looking forward to the show as we've always had fantastic support in PE,” said lead vocalist Claire Johnston, who is hoping to treat their supporters to a vintage performance.

Subtitled “20 Years of Hits and Memories, 20 Years of Mango Magic”, it is perhaps fitting that the 11-piece band will once again delight fans as part of the festival's closing ceremony (2pm) as the African seaside event is also celebrating its 20th anniversary. “When Glenn van Eck (festival director) approached us, we simply couldn't refuse. It is such a giant, uniquely South African celebration,” said Johnston.

Fans can expect to hear hits such as Special Star, Hellfire, Dance Some More, Hometalk, Moments Away and Another Country. More recent chart-toppers like Bang the Drum, This is Not a Party and the all-new Hey! will also be performed.

A second home

“PE is very much a second home to John (founding member John Leyden) and I,” said Johnston. “We visit the area regularly and are absolutely in love with its natural beauty.”

“Our interest in conservation was very much triggered by events in and around the city.” She says they witnessed the re-release of lions into Shamwari, performed at the World Wilderness Congress in PE and are associated with the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Foundation.

“Amazing things are happening in relation to conservation, tourism and community involvement and we are honoured to be part of it.”

International borders

After the Splash Festival, Mango Groove will perform around the country before heading for international borders.

“We are looking at shows in the rest of Africa, Britain, Australia and New Zealand. After that, we will see where it goes,” Johnston said.

For more information, call +27 (0)41 393 4844 or go to www.splashfestival.com.