Black Umfolosi

The arts and culture of Africa are preserved through the a cappella harmonies, authentic costuming, and traditional dancing of multi-discipline performing arts group Black Umfolosi. Formed by students of the George Slundika School in Bulawayao, the capital of the Ndebele-speaking region, Black Umfolosi took its name from 19th-century Zulu revolutionaries the Black Umfolosi Regiment. Although they usually perform as an 18-piece ensemble, Black Umfolosi periodically expands with the addition of a 900-member choir. In addition to their active performance schedule, the group continues to conduct workshops and serve residencies in dance, vocals, theater, costume design, poetry, and mime. Voted the most popular artist at Canada's Commonwealth Games in 1994, Black Umfolosi toured North America, Australia, and Europe in 1996 and 1998.