National Arts Festival to host 13th Masicule choral event in Makhanda

The event will take place at the Guy Butler Theatre, where more than 500 singers from local choirs are expected to perform across two evenings. The showcase has become a regular feature of the city’s cultural calendar, highlighting choral music traditions in the Eastern Cape.

Masicule brings together school choirs and established performers, offering younger singers the opportunity to perform on a professional stage. This year’s edition will feature guest appearances by Zwai Bala and Pinky Bala.

Zwai Bala, known as a member of the group TKZee and as part of The Bala Brothers, has worked across multiple genres including kwaito, soul and gospel. Pinky Bala, a singer, songwriter and producer, is recognised for her work in gospel and contemporary South African music.

The festival has also supported the development of choral music in the region through related initiatives, including its collaboration with the Makhanda Kwantu Choir and the introduction of the Makhanda Igwijo Competition. At the 2025 festival, a local group, Makhanda Combined, won the Igwijo competition and was subsequently invited to record with The Soil.

Monica Newton, chief executive of the National Arts Festival, said the event plays a role in promoting choral music and supporting emerging talent.

“We’re committed to providing a platform to spotlight and grow choral voices in South Africa, and Masicule is an important project towards that recognition,” Newton said.

“This event gives young singers the chance to perform on a major stage alongside artists they’ve admired for years and is a reminder of the deeply powerful emotional and symbolic experience of voices in harmony.”

She added that the Eastern Cape has a strong choral tradition, with Makhanda remaining central to its development.

Masicule will be held on 19 April at 6 p.m. and 20 April at 7 p.m. Tickets are priced at R65, with concessions available for students, scholars and pensioners.