Where:
Paine Concert Hall
3 Oxford Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
Admission:
FREE
Categories:
Music, Nightlife, Shows, University
We welcome Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, playwright and actor, Somi Kakoma to Harvard's Paine Hall for an intimate gathering of storytelling and songs celebrating legendary South African singer and political activist Miriam Makeba. Somi’s interpretations of Makeba’s best known recordings blend modern jazz, soul, and African groove, and can be heard on her latest album Zenzile: The Reimagination of Miriam Makeba (2022). In addition to performing Makeba's material, Somi will share some of her own original compositions while offering deeper reflections on the personal inspiration gained from Makeba's voice and messages of social justice. Dreaming Zenzile—the award-winning play about Makeba written and performed by Somi - premiered at ArtsEmerson's Paramount Theatre in Boston last spring before heading to a run Off-Broadway in New York City. She was awarded an Elliot Norton Award from the Boston Theatre Critics Association for Best Lead Actor in a Visiting Production for her role as Miriam Makeba. Performance is free and open to the public; reservation required via Eventbrite.