Royal Show music for all tastes

.

Mango Groove are the headline act at the Pietermaritzburg Royal Show on May 26.

Organisers of the 2012 Pietermaritzburg Royal Show have pulled out all the stops to bring showgoers a magical mix of the best in SA music from country and classic to jazz and pop.

Heading the eclectic line-up for one night only on the East Coast Radio stage at 5.15pm on May 26 are Mango Groove, who promise to set the night alight with their dynamic blend of local marabi, kwela and pop, the inimitable voice of Claire Johnston and the evocative penny whistle melodies of Mduduzi Magwaza.

KZN’s own singer-songwriter Jason Hartman and his band, which recently opened for the Eagles and earned a standing ovation, will entertain with their grunge-rock-funk sound.

With old school influence and new-school ideas, Red Light Stereo bring an upbeat and addictive pop/rock vibe to the stage.

Rocking at the Radio Sonder Grense concert at 2pm on May 27 will be a vibrant line-up of local pop attractions.

Kurt Darren, the renowned local singer, songwriter and television presenter, offers his loyal fans a balanced selection of soothing ballads and up-tempo songs in both Afrikaans and English.

Lee Vaughn will be performing a mixture of lively Afrikaans songs from his Doedoe-oë album, a few country songs, and a selection of his Smokie and Roy Orbison covers.

Adding a touch of girlie glamour to the stage is Deidre, who captured audiences’ hearts when she appeared on Idols 3 in 2005. Kick off your shoes and sokkie sokkie the night away to the “keep it country” tunes of Die Campbells.

Pietermaritzburg’s own home-grown pop sensation, Mario Ogle, will be performing tracks from his new album Superman, and is sure to be a big hit with his ever-growing fan base.

See popular names from the South African Indian music scene and a host of international names sparkle at the biggest Bollywood extravaganza of the year on June 2 at 5.45pm.

Classical lovers can enjoy the Royal Symphony concert at 11am on May 27, featuring the 60-strong KZN Philharmonic Orchestra.

Under the baton of visiting British conductor Jeremy Silver, featured soloists include soprano Sally Silver, lyric tenor Lionel Mkhwanazi and local baritone Andrew Butler.

From house to kwaito the traditional Ukhozi FM Concert will close the Royal Show at 10am on June 3.

The show runs from May 26 to June 3. Tickets range from R30 to R60.

Visit www.royalshow.co.za for opening/closing times.