ANNA MUDEKA brings the remarkable story of South African singer, songwriter and civil rights activist, Miriam Makeba to the stage in Mama Afrika, a new touring show to be staged at Rich Mix, Bethnal Green on March 17.

Taking part as part of the Soul on Ice festival from East London Arts organisation Certain Blacks, Mama Afrika charts Makeba’s rise from the townships of Johannesburg to global star, forced into exile for her stand against apartheid and marginalised for championing Black rights. 

The show is set to featuring many of Makeba’s best loved songs, including Mbube, Pata Pata and Soweto Blues. 

Mudeka’s solo show has been created for audiences of all ages. Here, 

The Voice spoke to the Zimbabwean born singer, musician and storyteller to find out why she chose to focus on Makeba’s story. 

“Although decades apart, I can relate to Miriam’s life. 

“I grew up in Rugare Township in what was then segregated Rhodesia. I remember hearing the voices of the young men ‘toyi-toyi-ing’ in the night for the liberation of Zimbabwe. 

“The toyi-toyi is a dance of defiance, which became a form of political protest at the heart of the anti-apartheid movement.

“There are parallels between Miriam’s start in music and my own: she sang in a choir as a child, as I did.” 

She added: I also performed traditional dance. We both followed our music dreams into adulthood, driven by the strong African women around us who were never afraid to have their voices heard. 

“Dr Miriam Makeba’s story is not just a story, it is a legacy. It offers a reason to be determined, it tells a positive history of empowerment without aggression, intimidation or anger. 

“I so admire her ability to navigate through adversity with grace. She epitomised the human spirit’s capacity for greatness.

“I wanted to create a story that reflects Miriam’s journey, embodying selflessness, perseverance, hope and unwavering determination – despite struggle and heartache. 

“Using words and song to fight against injustice, coupled with her remarkable talent, Miriam remains a beacon of inspiration. Yet her story is unknown to many – she deserves a place in the history books, the world over and her story lends itself perfectly to theatre. 

“This is one of the reasons I brought her story to the stage, I want others to learn from her. In fact, ‘Sankofa’ a Twi word from the Akan Tribe in Ghana sums this up; it means, ‘we must look back to correct the future’.” 

Speaking on how thought Makeba’s brand of activism resonates with Black communities in Britain today, she said: “Mama Afrika should resonate with Black audiences as we know what discrimination looks and feels like. 

“For those who are new to Miriam’s work, it teaches and reminds people of our history. 

“Audiences can take courage from Miriam’s story. She showed me resilience, and I am sure audiences will leave feeling stronger. Her story reminds us that we must expect that others may feel uncomfortable as we bring about real change. Miriam never stopped doing this.”

Looking forward to performing the piece Soul on Ice, Mudeka enthused: “As a performer, I want the Arts to be more representative – to achieve this we need to continue building platforms for ourselves. 

“Soul on Ice from Certain Blacks is one such programme and one which I am very proud to be part of. 

“I have to thank The Arts Council of England for understanding the importance of a platform for marginalised voices so we can share our stories with wider communities across the UK. 

“I am also thrilled to have the support of the Miriam Makeba Foundation, whose blessing and adds to the integrity of Mama Afrika.” 

Mama Afrika is at Rich Mix on Sunday March 17 as part of Soul on Ice festival from Certain Blacks: https://richmix.org.uk/events/mama-afrika-as-told-by-anna-mudeka/

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