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South Africa
 South Africa has given us some of the most memorable voices from the African continent-the soaring, passionate alto of Miriam Makeba, the purr and pounce of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the amazing sub-bass groaning of Mahlathini, and many others. Such vocal virtuosity is not surprising coming from a land where Zulus, Xhosas and Sothos have for centuries celebrated life's large and small moments with song.
April 27th is South Africa's Freedom Day a commemoration of the country's first democratic elections in 1994 when
South Africans of all races could vote for the first time in its more than 300-year history.
Learn about the legacy of the infamous song "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" through "A Lions Trail"
"The Lion Sleeps Tonight" is one of the most recognizable pop songs in the world. But how many people realize
that this American hit tune was actually written by Solomon Linda, a Zulu musician who never earned a cent in
royalties and died in poverty? Directed by award-winning filmmaker François Verster, A LION'S TRAIL traces the
music back to its original source, telling the story of how the Zulu song "Mbube" was transcribed by American
folk singer Pete Seeger into "Wimoweh," finally gaining international recognition as "The Lion Sleeps Tonight."
Visit PBS for Independent Lens broadcast schedule of this important film.
South African Freedom Day Celebrations Worldwide
NEW YORK CITY
Madiba Restaurant in Brooklyn, New York will be hosting a special screening of the trailer for the
documentary,"MalaMesh; Kwaito, Hip-Hop, South Africa" and a dance party in celebration
of South Africa's Freedom Day!
SOUTH AFRICA
Rosebank Mall, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Freedom Day celebrations held each April 27, are festive occasions with marching bands, drummers, acrobatic
displays, street parades, traditional singers and dancers. A day concert is held at a central venue where a
host of local talent is showcased, and celebrations are held all over the country in all major cities.
Entrance is free.
TRAVEL
Tour with South African Partners, Inc.
"Overcoming Apartheid's Legacy: Education Reform in the New South Africa"
Join fellow educators on a special tour of South Africa and learn about the status of education reform and the
particular challenges faced by township and rural schools. Visit Johannesburg, East London, Mthatha, and Cape Town.
Homecoming Revolution
The Homecoming Revolution is a non-profit organization aimed
at encouraging and helping South Africans living abroad to return home.
Enjoy the Spotlight on South Africa as we continue to bring you new content from the Rainbow Nation. |
