By popular demand, THOKOZA, a group of six South African and African women, all "of a certain age," will return Off-Broadway in I SING FOR FREEDOM, Sundays at 5:00pm at the Jackie Onassis Theatre beginning January 26th, 2014. I SING FOR FREEDOM played an extended run at Baruch Performing Arts Center from June to December of 2013.
Conceived and directed by Thuli Dumakude, I SING FOR FREEDOM is a unique theatrical event featuring women with a collective total of over 130 years of singing experience. Together, they sing music that they love and that makes them feel free, often in six-part harmony, always acapella and unamplified. Ranging from Southern church gospel to traditional South African Township songs, THOKOZA (meaning "joyfulness" or "happiness" in Zulu) is a celebratory experience, overflowing with rich and valuable history. The New York Times says, "Not only does their music sound intricate and effortless, but their banter - a crucial part of the show - does, too. They seem to have the comfort level of old friends..."Thuli Dumakude was born in Durbin, South Africa. She has acted internationally, playing varied roles, from Rafiki on Broadway in The Lion King for 2 ½ years to Lady Macbeth in A Zulu Macbeth. She was the featured soloist in the movie Cry Freedom. Joining Dumakude in I SING FOR FREEDOM are Ghanniyya Green, Brenda Fair, Silindile Sokuto, and Debbie Carter.Videos