By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Festival of Lights Ushers in Christmas with Carols – Festival performances continue with award winning vocalist Brenda Mtambo and musician Bongi Mthombeni concluding Festival of Lights on a musical high.
Over the past few weeks, Festival-goers have been treated to world-class entertainment perfectly delivered by very talented local artists. The remaining programme is no exception!
The week of the 22nd will feature Sempre Orchestra and the Mzansi Youth choir spreading the Christmas cheer with their exciting entertainment playlist packed with popular Carols that are enjoyed by many.
Except for the 25th of December, festival-goers will get to unwrap festive joy at the live open-air concert with Sempre Opera soloists and instrumental ensemble in the spectacular surroundings of the Joburg Zoo at the Festival of Lights as they present Gloria in Excelsis Deo! which celebrates the message of love and peace that accompanies the Christmas season.
The company promises to bring something for everyone, from traditional Christmas carols to sing along to classical and opera favourites. Do not miss their performances on 21, 23, and 26 December at the Johannesburg Zoo.
Sempre Opera is a professional, non-profit opera company devoted to creating full-length opera productions of exceptional artistic standards. They are committed to building a company with a reputation for presenting operas in a bid to make true opera accessible to South African audiences not only in the metros but also in rural areas.
Sharing the stage Sempre Opera is the internationally acclaimed, Mzansi Youth Choir who will perform on the 21st with Sempre Opera and the 22nd, 24th and 27th of December.
A World Choir Games Champions for the year 2020, Mzansi Youth Choir has now become known for its pinpoint choreography, extraordinary vocals, breathtaking wardrobe, and the choir’s knack for never giving an international performance without receiving a roaring standing ovation.
Award-winning vocalist Brenda Mtambo and Tembisa born musician, pianist, music arranger, sound engineer and producer, Bongi Mthombeni will conclude the Festival of Lights calendar on a musical high from the 28th of December and into the New Year, concluding on the 2nd of January. Patrons should be aware that there will not be a performance on the 31st December.
Brenda Mtambo’s amazing and unique ability to tell stories through her musical works allows one to journey with her in the narratives when listening to this Afrosoul powerhouse. From belting out notes at the tender age of 5 and spending her teenage years singing choral music, Brenda Mtambo is without a doubt one of the most powerful and soulful voices in the world.
Former Idols Contestant, Bongi Mthombeni’s passion for music was ignited at a very young age which has led him to learn instruments such as the piano on his own as a young lad. From grade 1 to grade 7, he always took part in his school’s talent shows and was determined to excel in every performance, whether it was with drama, music or even addressing the school! When he was in grade 2, he taught himself piano by watching his brother play at church.
His passion for singing also led to Bongi featuring as Lead Singer for the song Crazy Praise on Joyous Celebration 20 Performances will take place from 19h00 to 22h00 and patrons are encouraged to arrive from 18h00 and allow ample time for Covid screening that will be done at the entrance.