uMhlanga couple learn isiZulu to bridge the cultural gap
uMhlanga couple, Chantél and Arnold Ardendorff's involement in the The House of Shaka choral performance for Reconciliation Day has opened their eyes to the struggles of other cultures. They are now strongly advocating cultural understanding.
IT has been more than 20 years since South Africa became a democracy, yet many, like uMhlanga couple, Chantél and Arnold Ardendorff, do not believe that reconciliation has truly transpired within the nation.
“Reconciliation hasn’t taken place. We are still living in a very segregated society,” she said.
She and her husband are preparing to take part in the choral extravaganza on Reconciliation Day (16 December) at Coedmore Castle in Yellowwood Park. The event will pay homage to the legacy of King Shaka Zulu in a choral piece entitled The House of Shaka.
Speaking to the Northglen News last week, the couple strongly advocated the importance of understanding and embracing other cultures. The Ardendorffs, who have had to learn to sing isiZulu for their performance, said they experienced a massive culture shock and ‘wake-up call’ following their involvement in the event. What’s more, the couple has not only been learning the songs in isiZulu, they have also been exposed to the meaning and history behind the songs.
“There is so much about our country’s history that we don’t know. As Afrikaans-speaking individuals we have only heard half of the story. If we don’t know the whole history, how can we expect reconciliation within our country?” she said.
“At the moment, most people from our generation are colour-blind and not ‘culture-blind’. We need to encourage more people to learn about and embrace other people’s cultures, and this show provides the perfect platform to do so,” she added.
The Ardendorffs will be joining the award-winning Clermont Community Choir and the House of Shaka Ensemble in the evening’s highlight performance, entitled, House of Shaka – The Musical, composed and conducted by Professor Musa Xulu.
The celebrations will also feature Indian and Zulu dancing, poetry, crafts, heritage, cultural appreciation as well as performances by songbird, Sibongile Mngoma, soapstar, Dawn Tandeka King, and members of the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra.
The public is urged to take a picnic basket and enjoy the day as they experience the unique power of music as a means of storytelling. Gates open at 9am and festivities will continue until 16.30pm. Contact 035 772 1893.
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