Sensational Lira keeps crowd on their feet

NELSPRUIT – Lira had the crowd at Emnotweni’s new arena on its feet for most of her show last week.

The newly built multipurpose arena was officially launched with two concerts held by the South African Music Awards (Sama) winner on Thursday and Friday. Parts of the Emnotweni Casino Complex has had a multimillion-rand revamp over the past months. The 707 square-metre arena boasts state-of-the-art catering equipment, and Emnotweni is aiming to become Nelspruit’s hub for lifestyle events, exhibitions, conferences and concerts.

While Lira only recently achieved her superstar status in South Africa, she has been working in the industry for 10 years. However, she was nominated for her first award in 2000 already, and won her fist Sama three years later.

The svelte young singer was the perfect choice to add additional glamour of the launch. Lira boasts eights Samas and numerous hit songs. Last year, she released an album, Rise Again for the American market and also won a Black Entertainment Television Award for best-international artist.

The VIPs at Emnotweni were invited for a show on Thursday, and on Friday her young fans turned out in their numbers, dressed to the nines. The singer started off with a moment of silence for the late Madiba, before wowing the crowd for the next hour and half. Many remained on their feet throughout the concert since Lira not only has a huge voice, but also a charming stage personality.

With songs such as “Feel Good”, “Phakade” and “Rise Again”, she kept her fans engaged throughout the performance, letting them sing along in just enough places to keep things interactive but without losing the show to them.