Traditional song & dance from Southern Africa
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Black Umfolosi is a self taught Acappella (Imbube) singing and traditional dance group that was formed in 1982 by the then school-age members who wanted to develop themselves and contribute to their community. Specialising in imbube music, gumboot dance and Zulu dance, Black Umfolosi have since toured internationally and have enchanted the people of Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and Asia with their fantastic harmonies, energetic dancing and gentle humour. Black Umfolosi have also represented Zimbabwe at international events such as Expo 1992 in Seville, Spain and the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Canada.
Their performances are energy driven and completely engaging, mixing a great gentleness of spirit and song with an exuberance in dance. Their trademark harmonies mixed with intricate rhythms, clicking and clapping are highlighted during their brilliantly choreographed shows with a full range of movements from subtle to vibrant stomping and leaping!
Their famous Gumboot Dances showcase the traditional styles and rituals of the South African mining regions and are a particular crowd pleaser. The group also provide inspirational song and dance workshops to suit all age ranges and are a sheer joy to experience. See an example above of a Gumboot Dance Workshop at Belmullet Arts Centre in the West of Ireland
Black Umfolosi Performing Arts Project is registered as a company. It is also registered with the Zimbabwe Ministry of Education, Sport, Art and Culture, as well as the Zimbabwean Arts Council. It is affiliated to various organisations, including the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association.
Pictured above outside Áras Inis Gluaire in Belmullet on their 2013 Ireland tour: Austin Chisare, Sotsha Moyo, Sidinumuzi Moyo, Thethelela Moyo, Alec Ncube with manager Thomeki Dube leaning against the front of the bus
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission statement of Black Umfolosi Performing Arts Project is: TO PROMOTE, PRESERVE AND PERFORM SOUTHERN AFRICAN TRADITIONAL MUSIC AND DANCE, WHILE CREATING LINKAGES WITH INTERNATIONAL, CONTEMPORARY AND TRADITIONAL PERFORMING ARTS GROUPS.To achieve this mission, Black Umfolosi seeks to: To create employment for its members.use the Arts in addressing various social, economic, cultural and topical issues.use the Arts as a vehicle for promoting social harmony and understanding amongst people of different backgrounds.
“It was the best of all the festival, They have an incredible way to sing, to dance, a beautiful presence on the stage. Their simplicity, naturalness and cheerfulness was for us, at the end of the festival a beautiful present.” Milan Festival,
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