one4review | On 18, Aug 2025

Africa Power: The Colour of Water is a vibrant and thought-provoking performance that blends storytelling, music, and movement to explore identity, heritage, and resilience. At its heart is the tale of Bantu and the origin of water in Africa — its power to give life. When drought strikes, Bantu, guided by his ancestors, embarks on a journey to find a pangolin who can help bring back the rains.

The stage begins bare, but a screen above projects striking images and graphics that enrich the narrative. What starts as an empty space soon bursts into life as the performers step forward with infectious energy, shifting effortlessly between humour, vulnerability, and raw intensity. Street dances set to pulsing African rhythms ground the story in cultural tradition while giving it a fresh, contemporary edge.

The dancer portraying Bantu delivers expressive, high-energy performances that drive the story with heart and conviction. A standout moment comes when the stage falls into darkness and a dancer — wearing illuminated, glowing wings, presumably as the pangolin — performs a mesmerising routine that is both striking and unforgettable.

Equally powerful is the female singer, whose commanding voice becomes the vocal heart of the piece. Her original songs, delivered with passion and emotional depth, elevate the production to another level, immersing the audience in the atmosphere of this South African story.

While a few scene transitions feel slightly uneven, the overall journey is compelling and emotionally stirring. The ensemble shines brightest when leaning fully into its fusion of song, spoken word, and movement, creating a communal storytelling experience that resonates long after the final bow.

A rich, evocative, and visually captivating work, Africa Power: The Colour of Water is a wonderful celebration of South African culture, identity, and the strength of shared stories — a true Fringe highlight.

***1/2

Reviewed by Lynn

Assembly Rooms (Music Hall)

31st – 24th (except 6th,13th,20th)

16:55 (1hr