Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo and Langalakhe Mabena recently in Johannesburg
If there was ever a night when heaven came down to earth, this was it!
The Celestial Chorus launch at Carnival City’s Big Top Arena last weekend was nothing short of a divine spectacle, as thousands gathered for a powerful, spirit-charged night of praise and worship that united nations, voices, and hearts.
Despite light rains threatening the evening, nothing could keep gospel lovers away.
By nightfall, the venue was packed to capacity, with an atmosphere thick with anticipation, faith and joy.
From the very first note, it was clear this was no ordinary concert.
Led by celebrated Zimbabwean gospel star Everton Mlalazi, the Celestial Chorus delivered a seamless and deeply moving production, backed by a breathtaking 100-piece orchestra and a tight in-house band that elevated every performance into a spiritual encounter.
“This was not just an event — it was an altar,” Mlalazi said, reflecting on the night.
“People didn’t just come to watch, they came to encounter God. You could feel it from the first song to the last. That unity, that hunger for worship — it was overwhelming.”
Mlalazi who led the show also performed songs from his new album “Great God.”
Inside the Big Top Arena, the atmosphere struck a rare balance between electrifying celebration and deep reverence. Hands were raised, tears flowed, and voices blended into a thunderous chorus that transformed the venue into a sanctuary of sound.
South Africa’s Sindi Ntombela opened with authority, commanding the stage with a presence that ushered in waves of worship, while Dumi Mkokstad delivered a spine-tingling performance of Lalelani that had the crowd hanging onto every note. Zimbabwean powerhouse Canaan Nyathi brought both fire and finesse with Thokoza Phambili, blending traditional gospel with a rhumba-inspired rhythm that sent shockwaves of excitement through the audience.
One of the night’s most emotional moments came from Rudo Madindi, who delivered a heartfelt rendition of the SDA hymn Iva Gamba, leaving many visibly moved.
“Firstly, all glory to God who enabled me to minister. The audience at Celestial was not just responsive — they were part of the ministry. I could be myself, I could pour out, and they received it,” she said. Madindi also used the platform to speak boldly about the role of women in gospel music.
“Women in gospel are warriors. No matter the obstacles, we rise, we stand, and we continue to minister. Our strength is not in ourselves, but in God and in the calling we carry,” she said.
Also delivering unforgettable moments were Sharon Cherayi, whose vocal chemistry with Madindi created moments of pure musical magic, and Janet Manyowa, whose energy ignited the crowd. Veteran Mthunzi Namba reminded fans why he remains a pillar in gospel music, while Mmatema brought the night to a powerful close with a soul-soothing rendition of “It Is Well”.
The stage also shone brightly with performances from Mpumi Mtsweni, Fisani Masinga and Natasha Mlalazi, whose angelic vocals added depth and richness to the experience.
Emerging artistes including Peniel Tambama, Petronella Sengwayo, Tawanda Midzi and Precious Marimbire proved they belong on the big stage, standing tall among seasoned performers.
Behind the magic was a world-class production spearheaded by Afrotainment, combining crisp sound engineering with immersive lighting that enhanced — rather than overshadowed — the gospel message. Fans left the venue buzzing, many describing the experience as life-changing. “I have been to many concerts, but this was different,” said Nomsa Dube.
“This was not entertainment — this was an encounter. I felt something shift in my spirit.” Another attendee, Kabelo Mokoena, echoed the same sentiment.
“The unity in that room was powerful. South Africans, Zimbabweans — it didn’t matter. We were one voice, one people, one worship.”
For Lerato Ndlovu, the orchestra was a game-changer.
“That orchestra took everything to another level. It felt like heaven was backing the singers. I haven’t felt this close to God in a long time.” Music lover Brighton Maphosa said the production raised the bar.
“Everything was top class — the sound, the artistes, the flow of the programme. This is how gospel events should be done.”
Mlalazi said the overwhelming response affirmed the vision behind the Celestial Chorus.
“We had a full house, people from different nations, different languages — but one purpose. From song one to song 20, the energy never dropped. That tells you God was in it,” he said.
The free show, made possible by the Bridging Gaps Foundation, ensured accessibility for all, breaking financial barriers and opening doors for a truly inclusive worship experience. As plans are already underway to take the Celestial Chorus across Africa, one thing is certain — Johannesburg did not just host a concert. It witnessed the birth of a movement.
A movement of worship. A movement of unity. A movement that is set to shake the continent.
