Soweto Gospel Choir to Perform at MIAC
South African freedom songs meet gospel and classics in outstanding performance
TUESDAY, OCT. 7
The Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture (MIAC) continues its 2025-2026 performance season with the Soweto Gospel Choir showcasing their vibrant new concert Peace at the Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center. With a program combining South African freedom songs, traditional spirituals, and beloved classic artists including Aretha Franklin, Leonard Cohen, Kate Bush, and Harry Belafonte, the Soweto Gospel Choir has earned critical acclaim across the world for their performances and compositions.
"Hailing from Soweto, the historic township outside Johannesburg that was once home to Nelson Mandela and the heart of South Africa's democratic movement, the Soweto Gospel Choir has captivated audiences worldwide with its electrifying fusion of African gospel, freedom songs, and international classics," MIAC describes. "Praised by luminaries including Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Barack Obama, and Oprah Winfrey, this extraordinary ensemble enchants with its rich harmonies, dynamic rhythms, vibrant costumes, and an infectious spirit of joy."
Founded in November 2002 by David Mulovhedz and Beverly Bryer, the Soweto Gospel Choir was established to celebrate the heritage, languages, culture, and music of South Africa. The historical role of Soweto in helping dismantle apartheid, including the Soweto Uprising of 1976, is an important theme the group conveys to audiences. The township was also home anti-apartheid activists Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Telling their stories of the resistance to apartheid through music, current choirmaster Shimmy Jiyane explained, is a unique way of helping audiences understand the historical context and showcasing the traditions and resilience of South Africa.
7:30 p.m. // Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center, 501 E. 38th St. // $25-$50 // For tickets and info: miac.mercyhurst.edu
