SOUTH African born musician Valanga Khoza and his Australian wife Andrea will this week bring the story of Nelson Mandela to Ballarat.
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Committed to sharing South African culture and music with Australians, the Khoza's recent project has seen the husband and wife duo bring the Memeza Choir from Soweto to share their performance of Mandela In Me.
Andrea Khoza said the performance celebrates the life of the late icon and the South African spirit using vocals, poetry, African dance and traditional drums.
"It (performance) is a universal message of reconciliation, Nelson Mandela is an amazing story of courage," she said.
"He was a fantastic role model for people who have experienced hardships."
Directed by Emmy award-winner Jimmy Mulovhedzi, Andrea said the choir, who use music and dance to voice out challenges faced by communities in Africa, has proven to be an uplifting experience for those watching.
"They're great ... the vocals get you right in the heart and the male voices are so powerful,"she said.
"It's raw and emotional, the gumboot dancing which original came from men working in mines is amazing.
"If you love singing and dancing and if you're inspired by people like Nelson Mandela you will love this."
Joining the Memeza Choir on stage is local Ballarat choir Sweet Monas. Vocal workshops also be held prior to the performance for anyone interested in working with the Memeza Choir.
Open to all ages, the workshops will be held on June 2 from 7-9pm at the Ebeneezer Hall in Armstrong Street. To attend visit www.mandelainme.eventbrite.com.au
THE INFO
WHAT: Mandela In Me with Memeza Choir
WHEN: Wednesday, June 3 at 7.30pm
WHERE: Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts
TICKETS: www.wcpa.com.au
