Well folks what can I say, as soon as the first note of the penny whistle is played the crowd becomes alive and it is infectious. This sets the tone of the afternoon as the audience anticipates what is to come. One of the penny whistler’s, despite his age, moves vibrantly to the music and this brings a smile to my face.        

Enter the dancing girls in their colourful ensemble and a man clad in traditional garb. They are called Mbongi, a group in their own right, collaborating in the Kwela Calabash.  The energy pumps up to another level as they dance with such vigour and mirth. The crowd watches on avidly, thoroughly entertained by this new addition.

After a few songs I begin to long for some singing to accompany the sweet music and the joyous dances. No sooner as I think this, the dancing trio open their mouths and outcome the harmonious, warm tones that are associated with this type of music. I am wholly satisfied, even singing along as the lyrics are in my mother tongue. The sweet sound of my youth, my father’s youth, and the nation’s youth.        

The concert is navigated by the ever articulate orator, Albert Nyati’s narration. He is filled with general merriment and this resonates well with the crowd. The nostalgia for a simpler time settles on us as Nyati peppers the set with humorous and historical titbits about the life and times of Zulu Kings and their warriors. He is interacting with the crowd, pulling them on stage dancing with them and dazzling with the famous crowd pleaser; the Zulu Warrior kick. Our journey to the past is rich and filling and the crowd is pleased with their well spent money. All I need to complete my sun soaked, musical afternoon is an accompanying glass of red wine.