International Arts Foundation presents

AFRICA UMOJA

Created by Todd Twala and Thembi Nyandeni
Choreography: Todd Twala
Costume Design: Thembi Nyandeni
Sound Design: Bernard Productions
Stage Manager: Halid Hadiz

Executive Producer:  Ernest D. Kelly

Featuring: Penuel Bhekitzitha Ndaba, Gregory Mkhabela, Aphiwe Dumeko, Kenalemang Angela Kolodi, Hazel Ntokozo Mhlaba, Leroy Thabiso Madlala, Mbhali Ndlovu, Mxegeni Enock Hlatywayo, Lindiwe Malinga, Nhlanhla Vilakazi, Nompumelelo Mayiyane, Bafana McDonald Langa, Mosia Mokheseng, Neo Ernest Chuene, Thabo April Legae, Refrieca Consent Chiloane, Kegomoditswe Mildred Nhlabathi, Metja Phillipine Ledwaba, Livhuwani Beverly, Mawela, Tumelo Seleke, Mbuyiselo Issac Dlamini, Nonhlanhla Ngcobo, Richard Pheello Mazibuko, Nomasonto Penelope Zwane, Nkululeko Freedom Molefe, Thokozile Maria Dunge, Penwell Langa, Buhle Nikosi, Fernwell Sibusiso Nyirongo, Noah Mashilo, Reuben Sipho Dhlamini, Sbongiseni Gordon Mnguni

Press Representative: Glenna Freedman

Symphony Space
2537 Broadway at 95th Street
www.symphonyspace.org; 212.864.5400,

Umoja means togetherness. And together this cast of 32 lively, soulful and talented performers tell the story of South Africa before, during and after the tumultuous Apartheid period. They present the lives and perspectives of the native tribes and their fellow city dwellers through the music and dance as both evolve over time. The costumes are colorful and exotic, traditional and contemporary, and change over time and from country to city.

Act I begins with a thrilling show of drums and actors in native costumes. The narrator (Hope) says drums are the heart and soul of Africa. This first act includes a snake dance for girls coming into womanhood with innovative choreography; a Zulu dance of proposal; a competition for work when the men leave the village for Johannesburg as they also face the temptations of the city; a village scene for the women and children who are left behind; and the prohibition type bars called Shebeens run by voluptuous Queen proprietors (strong women they are called).

By Act II, as time has passed, we go back to the country side. The Tin Can Girls perform with tin cans as their instruments. Gospel made its way to South Africa and the next number, a Gospel Explosion, is filled with hallelujah’s. Jazz too has made its mark on music and dance. A taste of the modern comes with a club scene that is hip hop, yet retains its South African roots. Hope gives us a narrative on his childhood and the final number ends as it began: drums giving us the true power of Africa. The singing and dancing are exceptional; there are too many standouts to pinpoint any one performer.

AFRICA UMOJA brings to the stage this most difficult and trying period for South Africa and its people, but through music and dance they persevere. As a tribute to Mandela, the songs include Long Road to Freedom and I Have a Dream, South Africans turn to music in good times and in bad–for celebration and salvation. The audience is in for a rollicking good time. The energy is intense and the performers gleefully impart their passion and energy. The live band elevated in the back of the stage enhances the singing and drums beautifully. They are shown through a transparent screen that reflects historical scenes during this period and photos of the country side and cities in South Africa.

Tonight is their last performance on their US tour. When they return, be sure to see this production - it is a WOW!

- Gloria Talamas -