Based: Cape Town

Likwezi Project Band (often referred to simply as the Likhwezi Arts Project) is a vibrant Cape Town‑based marimba and performing arts ensemble that celebrates the rich traditions of Southern African music, dance and cultural expression. Their performances combine marimba music, percussion, song and multiple dance styles, offering audiences a spirited blend of rhythmic heritage and contemporary performance.

Roots & Artistic Identity

Formed from the Likhwezi Arts Project initiative, the band’s name Likwezi means “Morning Star,” symbolising hope, energy and cultural bright beginnings. The ensemble brings together performers with experience in singing, marimba playing, acting and dance — offering a multi‑disciplinary showcase rooted in township arts and community creativity.

Likwezi’s repertoire draws from a broad variety of Southern African traditions, interwoven with gospel, jazz and folk influences. Alongside marimba drums and percussion, performances may include gumboot, kwela, pansula and other indigenous dance styles, creating a lively show that resonates across generations and cultural backgrounds.

Performance & Outreach

The project has been involved in local, national and international engagements, performing and teaching across stages in Europe and Africa. They’ve collaborated with well‑known artists such as Sogo Band (Germany) and Drums Across (Denmark), and have taken part in festivals like Masala (Germany) and Roskilde (Denmark). Workshops and performances have also been part of cultural programming in Argentina, Finland, Norway and beyond — underscoring the ensemble’s international cultural reach.

They have even appeared in the feature film King of Solomon as dancers, demonstrating the group’s range across media and performance platforms.

Likwezi continues to inspire young performers, offering music and dance education while celebrating the power of rhythm and movement as tools for community pride and cultural exchange.