UMOJA - THE SPIRIT OF TOGETHERNESS brings its pulsating musical celebration of South African song and dance to the Vogue Theatre November 29th – December 18th. From the potent rhythms of tribal music to the intricate steps of gumboot dancing; from the foot stomping jazz of Sophiatown to the inspirational full-throated joy of Gospel, UMOJA is a vibrant, colourful showcase of the glorious sounds of Africa that have led to the rich contemporary beat of modern music. "Our music helped to keep us human," the show's narrator tells the audience, "for in Africa, rhythm is life itself."


From the remarkable synchronicity of the Venda Snake dance, to the soaring sounds of gospel and a capella, the soul of Africa bares itself in music. Nothing is ever wasted, music is made from anything, and happens anywhere. A couple of sticks and the boys make a marimba; a few tin cans and the young girls make maracas. UMOJA speaks the language of life understood by any culture!

Through the cast of 40 of South Africa 's brightest and most versatile young performers, singers, dancers, drummers and marimba players, the story of Africa unfolds: as the morning mists melt under the warmth of the African sun, the women walk down to the river to collect water. Balancing pots delicately on their heads, they make their way back to the kraal, humming, to prepare the meal. Even engaged in these simple domestic tasks, music is the underlying rhythm that accompanies their work. Suddenly the ferocious warriors burst in on the scene of tranquility, drumming furiously in aggressive unison. Muscular bodies clad in traditional garb leap, stamp and gyrate, brandishing shields and spears; the village maidens are persuaded to join in a dance of breathtaking sensuality as the male and female bodies merge and separate.


UMOJA - THE SPIRIT OF TOGETHERNESS runs November 29th – December 18th with previews November 29th and 30th at 8 pm and Opening Night Thursday, December 1st at 8 pm at the Vogue Theatre. Show times are Tuesday though Saturday at 8 pm, Wednesday & Saturday matinees at 2 pm, and Sunday matinees at 3 pm