Traditional Zulu A Cappella Singers

From South Africa To Perform Locally

WOODBURY — Thula Sizwe, a group traditional Zulu a cappella singers from South Africa, will present a concert on Sunday October 16, at 3 pm, in the sanctuary of North Congregational Church, 11 Main Street North in Woodbury. The concert is part of a seven-week tour the group has undertaken across the United States.

The musical style of Thula Sizwe is based in ancient Zulu cultural traditions. The tradition of competitions between different singing groups became very popular in the apartheid era, when many men lived far from their families in order to work. The men would form groups to sing and dance to entertain themselves in these times of isolation.

Thula Sizwe perform an energetic routine of song and dance, with a combination of traditional songs in Zulu, English and Afrikaans, as well as arrangements of traditional and contemporary Western sacred music and original sacred compositions. The performance will include explanations of the origins of the performance styles and of the costumes.

Songs include traditional Zulu repertoire, as well as original compositions and arrangements of other composers’ work.

A suggested donation of $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under will be accepted. Proceeds from the concert will be donated to disaster relief efforts in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast area. Refreshments will be served following the event.

North Congregational Church is at 11 Main Street North (Route 6), at the intersection with Route 47, across from Canfield Corners in Woodbury. Parking is available behind the church. Call the church office, at 203-263-2410, for additional information.