Joyous Celebration returns to the Big Top
MTN Joyous Celebration’s music has become a soundtrack to the lives of many South Africans over the years.
Carnival City’s Big Top Arena once again provides the stage for the highly anticipated, multiple award-winning gospel ensemble MTN Joyous Celebration as it launches its 23rd album tour.
This gospel music feast fittingly takes place over the Easter weekend, from April 19 to 21.
Some of the new and innovative elements included in Joyous 23 augment the “old” songs Joyous fans have come to love with contemporary sounds and rhythms.
The stage design for Joyous 23 is put together by a team that always pursues freshness in terms of look and feel of the set.
The fresh depiction of musical elements incorporated in the design befits the brand stature as pathfinders in live-show staging.
When the founders of this world-acclaimed group conceived their very first show in 1994 it was to celebrate South Africa’s smooth transition to democracy.
In 2019, their bold and daring 23rd offering is filled with creative elements and adventurous musical expression, driven by the two young musical directors, Mnqobi Nxumalo and Sphiwe Ngcobo.
MTN Joyous Celebration’s music has become a soundtrack in the lives of many South Africans over the years.
Read: South Africans rejoice as Soweto Gospel Choir wins their third Grammy Award
People are able to remember specific times when specific songs carried them through hard times in their lives, as well as songs that helped them celebrate good times.
“The Joyous 23 show, like previous shows, has something for everyone,” said pastor Mthunzi Namba.
“It’s fresh and unique, but still offers the ‘old’ Joyous sound even after we have experimented and included new and innovative elements.
“To remain relevant for over 20 years in an industry that’s so competitive has been a challenge, but we have managed to keep going because of the support of our fans and by the grace of God.”
According to pastor Jabu Hlongwane, “The people who have made Joyous what it is today deserve a treat.
“That is the reason we pull out all the stops when it comes to our productions,” he said.
“Our fans and supporters, sponsors and partners alike have become accustomed to quality and the wow factor in our offerings.
Read: Pray, Eat and Play at Carnival City
“Our shows are more than just an entertainment platform for music lovers, they are also a platform that allows for spiritual growth, sharing joyful moments in the Lord, freedom of being and expressing oneself through music and dance.”
In line with MTN Joyous Celebration’s ethos of grooming young talent, this year’s choir outfits were designed by up-and-coming designers.
This has opened an opportunity for young and talented South African designers to showcase their gifts and skills on a big platform.
“There is something for everyone – from songs sung in charismatic churches to the audience that is looking for traditional church songs sung in the mainline churches or Zion churches,” added Hlongwane.
“Similarly, those who are younger and are up to contemporary upbeat songs are definitely catered for in this album.
“These combined elements promise a masterpiece to feed your ears, get you tapping your feet and singing along while you define your own freedom through the music.”
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