Black Umfolosi

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Black Umfolosi is an award winning acappella singing and traditional dance group from Zimbabwe. It was formed in 1982 by students who wanted to develop themselves and contribute to their communities in a positive way. The main reason for this initiative was to preserve and revive the Imbube culture, which was at the time invaded by western influences. Black Umfolosi soon found a need in the visited communities for people to see and learn about Zimbabwean traditions. The group made it their obligation to demonstrate and teach others around the world (including other African countries) about the Zimbabwean and most Southern African traditional dances and music.

Black Umfolosi is the best travelled group in Zimbabwe and Southern Africa, hence having toured extensively nationwide and internationally in Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and Asia. They have represented Zimbabwe at international events such as the 1992 Universal Expo in Spain, the 1998 Universal Expo in Portugal and the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Canada among many more.

Black Umfolosi is one of the African continent’s most revered vocal groups, with more than three decades of international touring behind them.  Their shows feature a cappella songs in many of the languages of southern Africa, as well as almost non-stop dancing.  The imbube music they perform is a fusion of traditional Zulu music and more modern genres.  The songs are delivered with passion, integrity and humour. They have made sixteen recordings.

The group performs in colourful African attire, usually changing their apparel a couple of times during any given show. One of the highlights of theirI performance is their famous gumboot dance, a tradition which originated in the mines of southern Africa.  Dancers perform bare-chested wearing hard hats and long gumboots as they execute incredible feats of dance and percussion.  The songs and dance are tied together with interesting and informative banter from the group.  The show is a deep dive into the incredible culture of Zimbabwe.

With a gentleness of spirit, a joy of singing and exuberance in dance, Black Umfolosi has touched audiences of all ages locally and internationally.

Lee Curell Gynecologic Cancer Research Fund

Lee Curell was a beloved volunteer for the Rogue Folk Club for many years. After her untimely passing from cancer, her husband set up a fund in her name. It has now been one year since the launch of the Lee Curell Gynecologic Cancer Research Fund at BC Cancer Foundation.  It was his hope that Lee’s friends, colleagues and family would, collectively, match the initial donation, ensuring meaningful funding over the next 5 years to drive real impact in Lee’s honour. The response from donors has been well beyond all expectations.  Donations now total over $146,000, a truly extraordinary outcome. The BC Cancer Foundation has produced a 10 minute video which describes their research and what they hope to accomplish. You can view it here.

There will be more information about the fund and an opportunity to make a donation at this event. To learn more or make a donation NOW, go here.

The Rogue Folk Club is pleased to provide great Sponsorship Opportunities for all our shows. For a nominal cost, individuals or businesses can sponsor any of our shows and reap a number of benefits - free tickets, reserved table, recognition on literature, our web site and at the concerts. Find out more here, or simply contact our Sponsorship Director Morris Biddle at [email protected]