The hope, determination and song of Miriam Makeba; a remarkable life and beloved star.

Anna Mudeka tells the remarkable life story of Miriam Makeba; iconic South African singer, songwriter and civil rights activist. Mama Afrika is a story of hope, determination and song and includes best loved songs Mbube, Pata Pata, and Soweto Blues.

Performed by Zimbabwean born singer, musician and storyteller Anna Mudeka, Mama Afrika tells the the remarkable life story of Miriam Makeba, charting her rise from the townships of Johannesburg to global star, forced into exile for her stand against apartheid and marginalised for championing Black rights.

Told in four character incarnations chronicling a life blighted by hardship, tragedy and struggle; Mama Afrika is a story of hope and determination, and features many of Miriam Makeba’s best loved songs, embodying an irrepressible spirit and integrity which earned her legendary status.

Mama Afrika is a solo performance by Anna Mudeka. Script by Zimbabwean writer Tomas Lutuli Brickhill, musical direction by John Vigar at Totena Music, backing soundtrack recorded by Zimbabwean multi-instrumentalist Ziva Guveya. Directed by Tonia Daley-Campbell. Produced by Arts La’Olam. Originally co-commissioned by Norwich Arts Centre and supported by Arts Council England, The Makeba Foundation and Norwich Theatre.