(Playhouse Company CEO Linda Bukhosini, Chris Ntuli and MC Thanda Ndlovu congratulate the winners, Mthusi High School from Port Shepstone)Durban Black Drifters will host its 11th annual choir festival on the May 6 of 2011 at the Playhouse Opera. 60 choirs from Durban townships and surrounding areas will compete in this award-winning, vibrant, energetic and youth-based music competition. Huge cash prizes, trophies, certificates, computers and give-aways on offer. The event aims to preserve promote and develop Isicathamiya at grass root level.
Popular Ukhozi FM DJ and SABC sports presenter Thanda Ndlovu will compère the event for the third time. Veteran Isicathamiya groups Easy Walkers & Xolo Home Boys will entertain the audience while Izangoma from Nkandla will re-kindle ancestors with burning of traditional incense (impepho) at the opening of the show.
Other top names invited to this prestigious music experience are those who have been associated with Durban Black Drifters since its inception: Joseph Shabalala of Ladysmith Black Mambazo , Paul Mfuphi of SATMA , Prof Pitika Ntuli and Prof Cosbie Mbhele, Dr Vera Dubin, Vusi Mkhize, Prof D.B.Z Ntuli, Director of KZN Schools B. Ntuli and Caroline Smart, to name but a few.
For over the past 18 years, Durban Black Drifters have been involved in teaching Isicathamiya in townships, urban and rural schools. It is the only group that teaches Isicathamiya at school level, encouraging schools to create their own groups which will eventually reach a high enough level to enter the competition. Led by singer, composer, producer and Nkandla-born Chris Ntuli, Durban Black Drifters have toured overseas in France, Belgium, China, Norway, Japan, Canada and the U.S.A. Ntuli has been involved in the music industry for almost 30 years, and has worked and recorded with top artists such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the late (both) Jabu Khanyile and Sipho Gumede as well as Madala Kunene, Busi Mhlongo and Aerto Moreira (Brazil).
Durban Black Drifters has also released their fifth album entitled Lathini Ilembe. Ntuli has also initiated, recorded and produced the first Isicathamiya compilation album featuring 13 popular and veteran Durban-based Isicathamiya groups entitled The Best of Isicathamiya Groups.
The 11th Caltex Isicathamiya High Schools Choir Competition is sponsored by Chevron SA and managed by DBD Entertainment. The show starts at 10h00 sharp and entrance is free. Dress smart casual or traditional. More information on 073 301 6740.
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