Event information
Cape Town Opera, in collaboration with David Kramer, presents 'Orpheus McAdoo', a new musical that follows on from the success of 'Orpheus in Africa' in 2015.
This production tells the little-known story of an African American choir - The Virginia Jubilee Concert Company - led by Orpheus McAdoo (Conroy Scott), which visited South Africa in the 1890s. Invited by the Governor's wife, Lady Loch (Natalie Robbie), they introduced a unique style of singing that made them overnight sensations, prompting a two-year tour around the country.
'Orpheus McAdoo' recreates how his choir sang the old spirituals more than 120 years ago. In addition to traditional songs, Kramer has created new music inspired by early American folk music, minstrel songs, early ragtime and opera.
The musical features a star-studded opera cast including Brittany Smith, Dean Balie, Jody Abrahams, Eldon van der Merwe, Elton Landrew and Alexis Petersen.