Zimbabwian acappella group to take to the stage of the Apex

Inspired by the traditional song and dance of their native Southern Africa, Black Umfolosi take to the Apex stage next month with beautiful songs and gloriously exuberant dance.

Often compared to the likes of Lady Smith Black Mambazo, Black Umfolosi have released a number of recordings that feature acapella and township songs.

Based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, the group began as a means of entertaining themselves while still at school in 1982.

Naming themselves after the Umfolozi Omnyama River, an area to which their ancestors can be traced, Black Umfolosi expanded to become Black Umfolosi Performing Arts Project, acquired land and put up an Arts Centre.

Over the next 40 years, the self-taught acappella (Imbube) singing group specialised in gumboot and Zulu dance and made it their mission to demonstrate and teach others around the world (including other African countries) about Southern African traditional dance and music.

Their trademark harmonies, mixed with intricate rhythms, clicking and clapping are complemented by choreographed shows, with movements ranging from shuffles to stomping and leaping.

Their famous Gumboot Dances showcase the traditional rituals of the South African mining regions and are a particular crowd pleaser.

Black Umfolosi play the Apex on Friday, August 26, at 7.30pm. See www.theapex.co.uk or ring 01284 758000 for more information or to book tickets.