The Soweto Spiritual Singers are at the Fringe with two shows, this later one at the Assembly Rooms called
The show and the ensemble really do shine, with each singer given the opportunity to show off their individual skills; the soloists impressing with both their range and ability to perform with such a large set of singers.
The South African singers and musicians put on a show that is full of energy and African culture. With a wide ranging song choice, from starting the show with a rendition of Our Father, to more traditional African music, the show is never boring.
The singers showcase the material that has made them famous, including the song they sang at the opening ceremony of the first football World Cup to be staged in Africa in 2010. The energetic choreography that comes with the music is also a great exhibition of their performing prowess.
Unfortunately, (and maybe I’m showing my own personal music taste too much here), the band that provided the background music to the exceptional singing too often sounded like something you might hear if you got lost in London and ended up in an elevator in the ‘60s. This lounge music sound detracted from the overall beauty and power of the singing and when stripped back to the absolute basics, the show improves immeasurably.
The show and the ensemble really do shine, with each singer given the opportunity to show off their individual skills; the soloists impressing with both their range and ability to perform with such a large set of singers.
Overall the show is enjoyable and the poignancy of the message behind the music; one of joy, acceptance and tolerance, really comes to the fore throughout. It’s a fantastic celebration of South Africa, its music and dance and is brilliantly uplifting.
