Thursday 9 October | 7:30 PM | Derby Hall @ The Met
£17 standard / £15 subsidised / £19 supporters (inc fees)
Zimbabwean-born singer, musician and storyteller Anna Mudeka brings the extraordinary life of South African icon Miriam Makeba to the stage in Mama Afrika—a powerful solo performance that celebrates the hope, resilience, and voice of one of the most important musical and political figures of the 20th century.
Told through four captivating character incarnations, Mama Afrika charts Miriam Makeba’s journey from the townships of Johannesburg to becoming a global star, exiled from her homeland for speaking out against apartheid, and later marginalised for her bold advocacy for Black rights. Her story is one of heartbreak and hardship, but above all, determination, strength, and song.
Featuring some of Makeba’s best-loved songs, including Mbube, Pata Pata, and Soweto Blues, this production is a moving tribute to her irresistible spirit and unshakable integrity, which earned her legendary status as Mama Afrika.
Written by Zimbabwean writer Tomas Lutuli Brickhill, with musical direction by John Vigar (Totena Music), a backing soundtrack by multi-instrumentalist Ziva Guveya, and direction by Tonia Daley-Campbell, the show is produced by Arts La’Olam and was originally co-commissioned by Norwich Arts Centre with support from Arts Council England, The Makeba Foundation, and Norwich Theatre.
A deeply inspiring and moving performance, Mama Afrika is a must-see celebration of a woman who used her voice to change the world.