The four time traditional Grammy award winner acappella group has been scheduled to perform at the State Theatre, Pretoria from April 17 to May 11.
This will be in celebration of their South African Amambazo Musical tour before wrapping up at The PlayHouse, Durban in September 2014.
Having wowed the world with their distinct and unique African repertoire Mambazo, recently won their fourth Grammy Award in the Best World Music category: “Singing For Peace around the World” which makes them the only respected musical group to reach such accolades in South Africa.
The ‘Amambazo the Musical’ tells a story about the journey of the Ladysmith Black Mambazo from the formation of the group by Professor Joseph Shabalala in the 1950s. One of the major highlights in the journey of the group over the years includes collaborations with international artists such as Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, Josh Grabon, Ben Harper and Dolly Parton.
It has also honoured invitations to perform for world leaders such as the late former president Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela and Queen Elizabeth of England.
“We are excited about the upcoming tour, as it tells one of the most successful stories in the local music industry,” says Black Mambazo Project Manager Xolani Majozi.
“From the day Professor Shabalala moved from Ladysmith to find work in Durban to the formation of the Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and hits that made the group popular over the years, it’s all going to be reflected on the performance. We are inviting all South Africans to come and witness this musical, the cast is amazing.
The musical was well supported in the US, so it only makes sense that the support be even greater here,” continued Majozi, excitedly.
The male group sings in vocal styles of isicathamiya and mbube . It is South Africa’s most prolific recording artists, with their releases receiving gold and platinum disc honours. The group has now become a mobile academy, teaching people about South Africa and its culture.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo has to date sold over 16 million albums internationally.
Sad news though, Prof Shabalala confirmed this year that he will be retiring from participating with the group as a result of ill-health and ageing.
Yes, already talks are making rounds on who will succeed him but the legendary was honest enough and said, all remaining members are capable of carrying the baton aloft.
Well, you have made your make Sir, and its’ only fitting to honour you whilst still alive!
The Amambazo musical will be directed by Edmund Mhlongo.
Since this is their first live performance in the country this year, get your tickets NOW and have a ball with our pride of the Nation!
They’re available from R120 from Computicket outlets. It starts from 8pm.
