Photo Flash: First Look at SONGS OF MIRGRATION at the Kennedy Center

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is playing host to the US premiere of the Sibojama Theatre Company production of Songs of Migration, a jazz-infused tribute to the songs of late 19th century African migrants from all across the vast continent seeking new opportunities in South Africa.  BroadwayWorld has a first look at the produciton below.

Songs of Migration was conceived by lauded South African trumpeter, composer, and lyricist Hugh Masekela and James Ngcobo, a prominent South African television and stage actor who also wrote and directs this show. This musical tribute, featuring songs compiled and arranged by Masekela and Ngcobo, was first produced in South Africa to critical acclaim and is currently receiving a production in the United Kingdom before it arrives at the Kennedy Center on October 17. The piece will expose our local audiences to South Africa’s rich and transformative cultural history and highlight, through stories and songs, the experiences of those migrants that shaped South Africa’s cultural profile. A cast of nine, including Masekela himself and Sibongile Khumalo in the Lead Storyteller roles, and a five-member band showcase Masekela’s music as well as the works of other prominent African songwriters, including Mackay Davashe, Joseph Shabalala, Victor Ndlazilwane, Gibson Kente, Dorothy Masuka, and Miriam Makeba.

Photo: Provided by the Kennedy Center

SONGS OF MIGRATION

SONGS OF MIGRATION

SONGS OF MIGRATION

SONGS OF MIGRATION

SONGS OF MIGRATION

SONGS OF MIGRATION