The Market Theatre Closes SONGS OF MIGRATION, 2/21

Songs of Migration, a musical tribute to the great songs of migrants across the African continent, has been created by internationally acclaimed trumpeter, composer and lyricist Hugh Masekela and written and directed by award-winning director James Ngcobo. It features the multi-talented, soulful and dynamic Sibongile Khumalo. The Market Theatre will end its run of SONGS OF MIGRATION on Feb. 21.

Following the discovery of minerals in Gauteng and other parts of South Africa during the late 19th century, indigenous people started to migrate to the towns that had emerged out of the mining operations dumps. . These new migrants brought with them their music, traditional costumes, musical instruments, songs, ceremonies and dance.

The prospects of work in a community where citizens could afford to pay to have a good time drew musicians to the rapidly growing golden city of Johannesburg. They left their ancestral homes and gathered in this cosmopolitan town- assembling an extraordinary mass of musical talent.

Songs of Migration rewinds the tape and tells stories about South African music and history, and promotes African music and dance. The production includes rich musical scenes on the train that was seen as a separator of lovers, breaking up families as it moved raw materials to and from the ports for imports and exports.

This show is a musical celebration. We take off our hats to the musicians who captured this journey in song. It features songs by Mackay Davashe, Joseph Shabalala, Victor Ndlazilwane, Gibson Kente, Hugh Masekela, Dorothy Masuka and Miriam Makeba.

Production Information

Compiled by Hugh Masekela and James Ngcobo
Directed by James Ngcobo
Musical Director Ezbie Moilwa
Lighting Designer Wesley France
Sound Designer & Engineer Freddy Malisa
Choreographer Greg Maqoma
Dance Captain Lulu Mlangeni
Set and Costume Designer
Stage Manager RapelAng Leeuw
Cast: Character
Hugh Masekela Lead Storyteller
Sibongile Khumalo Lead Storyteller
Fana Zulu Bass
Ntokozo Zungu Guitar
Tshepo Mngoma Violin & Vocal
Ezbie Moilwa Keyboards
Thumbeza Hlophe Singer & Actor
Mr B Singer & Actor
Bonginkosi Zulu Singer & Actor
Kuki Mncube Singer & Actor
Gugu Shezi Singer & Actor
Happy Motha Singer & Actor
Khululiwe Sithole Khanyile Singer & Actor
Linda Thobela Singer & Actor
Nondumiso Zondeki Singer & Actor

For more information, please click here.