Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Bulawayo-based Imbube/Isicathamiya ensemble Amaqaqa, will be taking their new production The Spirit of Africa: Umlilo Kachothoza to South Africa, as they are billed for a maiden show at the Hillbrow Theatre in Johannesburg on September 20.
The Spirit of Africa: Umlilo Kachothoza production carries the deep essence of African music that portrays the way of life for the Ndebele people through Imbube music and dance.
The production signifies the importance of identity as it touches a lot on our past and on how our forefathers used to live.
In presenting the musical, Amaqaqa will be supported on stage by Imbizo, Lihle Izulu, Inkanyezi ZeZulu, Khiwa as well as Zinkonjane Indeginous Voices.
Known for their powerful stage presence and award-winning performances, the leader of the group Khulekani “Khabo” Madodana Dlodlo said they came up with the initiative of the gig so as to break boundaries and take African music to the rest of the world.
He said the musical is a reminder to all African black people to celebrate their culture and pride, so they continue to be reminded about who they are.
“The preparations for the Mzansi gig are going very well. We have our organisers on the ground, who are making sure that everything goes accordingly for us to perform smoothly and celebrate with our followers in the South of Limpopo.
“In South Africa, there are many people who believe in preserving African culture be it Zulu, Pedi, Ndebele, Venda and so on. With such cultural enthusiasts, we then decided to take this production to them so that we can bond with our audience over there, at the same time spreading our own identity as Amaqaqa.
“As a cultural ensemble, we wish to showcase and unveil the hidden old lifestyle of our fore fathers through our music because we believe that is one of the ways we can unlock Ubuntu among African people,” said Dlodlo.
As a group, which mainly organises their own shows without promoters’ help and sponsorship, Dlodlo said they managed to sail through and craft this show because of determination and passion.
He called upon companies to come on board for possible collaborations.
“There are challenges that we faced in coming up with this event. We do not have a promoter or sponsors but we are doing this event because we are driven by passion and the power and love of music.
“Going forward, we would like to call upon sponsorship from different companies, who can help us in perfecting our events. We are open to collaborations and be brand ambassadors to various companies as our profile is clean and resonates with a lot of people,” said Dlodlo.
