Mbeki's inauguration to rock
2004-04-25 15:35
Johannesburg - Words and images documenting South Africa's journey from oppression to freedom will form part of the artistic celebration of the country's 10 years of democracy on Tuesday.
The thousands of people expected at the festivities in the gardens of the Union Buildings in Pretoria will hear songs which a group called Creative Collectors have composed especially for the inauguration.
Hugo van Heerden, consultant for Creative Collectors, confirmed that the songs were timeously completed , but refused to divulge their lyrical content.
A glittering audience of presidents, premiers and royalty will attend the inauguration of the president, which will be completed by around midday.
Then it will be time to celebrate.
The more than 40 000-strong crowd expected at the Union Buildings gardens will be treated to the music of Wanda Baloyi, Bongo Maffin, Danny K, Fohloza, Jennifer Jones, Jabu Khanyile , Mafikizolo, Arthur Mafokate , Busi Mhlongo , Joe Nina , PJ Powers , Karen Zoid , Dolly Rathebe, Abigail Kubheka , Lundi and Ishmael, among others.
Khaya Mahlangu and Zwai Bala will lead 12 background singers and two 10-piece bands The morning's performance includes four traditional horn players, 12 traditional drummers, a 14-strong brass band, under the leadership of Prince Lengoasa, and a mass choir comprising members of the Durban Serenade, Ionian Music Society, Amazwi Kantu and Cenestra Male Choir.
The lunchtime festivities include a show directed by Mbongeni Ngema and Gwangwa and performances by 50 dancers, five actors and 22 child performers.
The luminaries will be treated to a night concert, at the State Theatre, featuring Semenya, Hugh Masekela, Letta Mbulu, Sibongile Khumalo , Judith Sephuma , Vicky Sampson, Abdullah Ibrahim and Gwangwa, among others.