University of Florida Performing Arts

Sponsored by Gainesville Guardian.

There will be a pre-performance discussion at 6:45 p.m. led by Dr. Stephanie Evans.

Did you know…

• When it comes to vocal talent, Africa, and more particularly South Africa, has spawned the most evocative sounds on earth and still produces the very best that the world has to offer in this art form. Soweto Gospel Choir is that very best.
• Expect earthy rhythms, rich harmonies, a cappella numbers as well as accompaniment by an exciting four piece band and percussion section. Add to this, energetic dancing and vibrant, colorful costumes, and the mix is awesome. This young dynamic choir performs both traditional and contemporary music, adding its own unique feel and interpretation to both.
• The choir performs in six of South Africa’s 11 official languages.
• Formed in November of 2002, by promoters/presenters Andrew Kay, David Vigo and Clifford Hocking, in association with Executive Producer/Director Beverly Bryer and Musical Director David Mulovhedzi, Soweto Gospel Choir’s existence has become a multi award-winning sensation.
• Another exciting and memorable occasion for the choir was at Sun City on New Year’s Eve, where they performed for Oprah Winfrey and 200 of her V.I.P. guests including Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Tina Turner, Patti LaBelle, Sidney Poitier and Quincy Jones.
• On February 11, 2007, the Soweto Gospel Choir received probably its greatest accolade, a Grammy Award for the CD Blessed in the category “Best Traditional World Music.” In 2008 they won a second Grammy Award in the Best Traditional World Music Album, for African Spirit.