Stars of Africa

Wednesday 26 November - 7.30pm
Kindly supported by The StratREAL Foundation

Join us to celebrate 50 fantastic years of VSO in the grandest event in VSO’s history at the stunning Royal Albert Hall.

Headlining this concert is Hugh Masekela, the legendary South African trumpeter and singer who has covered the globe and played with just about every top star. Known as ‘the master of African jazz’ he can entertain with his stories as well as his music. He will be joined on stage by internationally renowned African artists, Angelique Kidjo and Bassekou Kouyate.

A powerful and charismatic singer, Angelique Kidjo mixes driving dance rhythms, passionate political lyrics and an extraordinary stage presence, described by Time Out as ‘an electrifying cool – as contemporary, stylish and vibrant as it comes’.

Bassekou Kouyate is one of the greatest masters of the ngoni, a traditional lute found throughout West Africa. The Guardian described his music as ‘both ancient and utterly contemporary…. Like an African answer to Hendrix.'

To hear music by these artists click on the links below:

• Hugh Masekela
• Angelique Kidjo
• Bassekou Kouyate

The evening will be hosted by British actor, playwright and singer Kwame Kwei-Armah, best known for his role in Casualty or appearance on Celebrity Fame Academy, and Rita Ray who is a live DJ, radio presenter and an authority on afrobeat.

The concert promises glamour and celebration at the climax of our Golden Anniversary year. Following the concert will be an exclusive dinner in the gallery of this fantastic venue. Packages including a private box for the concert, champagne and canapés served on arrival and seats at dinner are available. Please contact us for further information.

Funds raised through the concert will support VSO’s education programmes in Africa where VSO’s volunteering programmes started 50 years ago.

Tickets for the concert are priced between £15 and £35 and are available from the Royal Albert Hall box office.

Kindly supported by The StratREAL Foundation:

The StratREAL Foundation has been generously supporting VSO since 2006. It is currently providing funding to develop our education work in Africa, helping to strengthen education systems and increase the access of a quality schooling to children across the continent.

Also kindly supported by:

Tullow Oil are Entertainment Sponsor, DHL Express are Dinner Sponsor, De Beers are decoration sponsor and Old Mutual are Programme Sponsor