Review: Afrika! Afrika! @ Trafford Centre, Manchester

1:56pm Friday 25th July 2008

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I HAVE seen many shows over the years but I can honestly say that I have never seen a show like Afrika! Afrika!

Astonishing is perhaps the only way to describe this vibrant, colourful celebration of a continent. If you don’t enjoy it then you simply don’t have a soul.

Set in a Big Top, the apparently ridiculous setting of a car park at the Trafford Centre is transformed into a land of mystery and wonder.

Over 100 performers from 17 different countries combine in a show that’s part circus, part dance spectacular, part musical and a constant delight.

With a live band pounding out foot-tapping rhythms for the whole of the two-hour show and some brilliant vocalists I’d pay to just go and watch them perform.

Then when you add in the diversity and talent that’s on the stage and you have a unique live experience.

From amazing acrobats, wonderful dancers and a basketball match on unicycles (yes honestly) there’s just so much to take in. You’ll watch it but you won’t quite believe what you’re seeing.

Afirka! Afrika! is set to be this summer’s hottest ticket and so it should be.

The aim of the show, which has wowed audiences all over Europe, is to portray the many facets of Africa. This it does. It is colourful, lively, at times dangerous, and throughout there’s a feeling of fun.

Everyone on stage appears to be having just as good a time as the audience and this — plus the unusual ‘Big Top’ setting — creates a magical atmosphere which all ages will pick up on.

There is so much to worry about in the modern world, this is one show where you can take two hours off from reality and be royally entertained.

Around 2,000 people can see the show every night and I’ll guarantee everyone leaves with a smile on their face and their toes still tapping to the rhythms of Africa.

* Afrika! Afrika! runs until Saturday, September 6. For further details, visit www.afrika-afrika.com