Minister of Arts and Culture, Dr Pallo Jordan. Pic by Juda Ngwenya
July 29, 2008 – Some of Africa’s best artists will perform at a special musical concert to be staged in Johannesburg next month in celebration of Nelson Mandela’s life.
The event, to celebrate Madiba’s 90th year, will be held at the Johannesburg Stadium on Saturday August 23 from 11am and will be hosted by the Department of Arts & Culture in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
Dr Pallo Jordan, Minister of Arts and Culture, said that the “all star concert by South African and African performers” would be “joyous, celebratory and inclusive” and “an event to be remembered”.
“In fact, this event will display to all of us the spirit of togetherness and unity that not only exists among the people of this country but between Madiba and artists who truly understand what he stands for. We cannot think of a better way to celebrate the life and legacy of this great son of the African soil,” he said.
“This is going to be a case of South African legends on one stage, in one celebration for the ultimate icon, Nelson Mandela, who is both a South African and international inspiration,” said Jordan.
Artists who have confirmed their attendance come from countries like Senegal, South Africa, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They include legendary names like Baaba Maal, Dorothy Masuka, Jonas Gwangwa, Jimmy Dludlu, Kampi Moto, Karen Zoid, In-Cha, Jae, Danny K, Gang of Instrumentals and Jozi.
At the concert Madiba’s life will be reflected in song by a choir, South African vocalists and a live band through poetry, traditional instruments, praise singers and archival footage. A children’s programme will be supported by performances including live DJ’s, traditional performances, diverse dance and vocal genres from African dancers to Kudu horn blowers.
Achmat Dangor, Nelson Mandela Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, said celebrations to honour Mr Mandela are expected to continue until the end of the year.
“This has been a truly momentous year,” he said. “I think this [concert] is a very important milestone in these celebrations. It is very, very important because it brings the celebrations home publically.”
“The Johannesburg Stadium event is a springboard to showcase to the world the wonderful talent that Nelson Mandela has inspired in his struggle for freedom. This talent is not only to be seen on stage, but it will also be evident by the work of talented youth in the areas of lighting design, set design, event production and project management. A range of talented South Africa’s are working hard to create this celebration of the life of a unique person,” Dangor said.