By Matthew Pearce
Described as “The Lion King on steroids”, Cirque Mother Africa is bringing a celebration of African culture to Rockhampton’s Pilbeam Theatre in April.
The 90-minute show, which has been seen by two million people around the world, is described as “exuberant, high-energy entertainment with colourful costumes, immense physicality, powerfully rhythmic music, song, dance, cirque acts and comedy”.
It combines the very best talent from nine African countries including Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania,
Singer and narrator Nonhlanhla Pretty Changese, who comes from the city of Durban in South Africa and whose family is Zulu, said the show showcased contortion, acrobatics, traditional dance, live music, pan spinning, hand balancing and more.
Pretty started her singing career as a young girl, escorting her friends to a singing audition, which she had not planned to take part in.
Wowing the judges with her incredible voice, she was offered a two-year contract to tour with some of the best musical talent South Africa has to offer including Tsepo Tsola, Ringo Madlingozi, Thandiswa Mazawi, Brenda Fassie, Busi Mhlongo and the African queen-Miriam Makeba.
Pretty joined the Australian tour of Cirque Mother Africa after originally planning to tour in Germany. In addition to singing, she serves as the narrator, introducing each act.
She described the show as “The Lion King on steroids”.
“I enjoy being African on stage and delivering for the audience, letting them enjoy and listen to some nice music… the show is a celebration of African music and culture,” she said.
“When it’s all on point, the sound and the music, I get so emotional and have been brought to tears.”
Pretty said she loved Australia and the Australian people.
“It’s so beautiful, especially the small towns… There’s a big difference between the country and the city. They’re all lovely people, but I prefer the country.”
Cirque Mother Africa is coming to the Pilbeam Theatre on Thursday, 6 April at 7.30pm.
You can buy tickets to the show at seeoitlive.com.au or at the Pilbeam Theatre box office.
