Cate Prestidge is a principal academic and co-ordinator of journalism and communication programmes at Wintec. She has been writing theatre reviews for NZME since 2021.
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Mary Mulovhedzi entered, accompanied by high-pitched lilizela (ululation) from the offstage choir.
Mulovhedzi, daughter of one of the choir’s founders, is a commanding performer in both voice and movement.
Her opening solo set a thrilling benchmark for the night ahead, and a ripple of excitement moved through the crowd as the full ensemble joined her onstage.
Dressed in coordinated, brightly coloured outfits representing the “rainbow nation” (with neon sneakers adding a contemporary edge), the choir combined visual flair with remarkable discipline.
Every member was fully engaged, physically and vocally.
The first half of the concert focused largely on South African freedom songs, with different soloists showcasing the depth and variety of voices within the ensemble. Photo / Levi Santana
The first half of the concert focused largely on South African freedom songs, with different soloists showcasing the depth and variety of voices within the ensemble.
It closed with a moving tribute to Nelson Mandela, highlighting exquisite harmonies.
The second half broadened into protest songs from the civil rights movement and more contemporary material, generating a few quiet sing-alongs.
The sound produced by just 16 performers was astonishing in its scale and richness.
Their precision and stamina sustained the performance throughout, drawing an increasingly enthusiastic response from the audience.
While all the performers urged us on with equal enthusiasm, choir master Shimmy Jiyane proved especially adept at engaging the crowd, coaxing participation with humour and ease.
A stirring rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah brought the evening to an emotional close, leaving many in tears, including this reviewer.
It was a fitting finale to a performance that was as powerful as it was uplifting. One night only, but worth it.
The Soweto Gospel Choir performed in Auckland on Sunday and will perform in Wellington and Christchurch this week.
Cate Prestidge is a principal academic and co-ordinator of journalism and communication programmes at Wintec. She has been writing theatre reviews for NZME since 2021.
