The stage was set, the atmosphere was palpable, and the Font A Vida hall in Lagos was full to capacity on 4 May for the annual Spring Concert of the local Choir, Cantus Nortada.
WORDS Liz Ryan
Known as the Swedish choir, it is a diverse group made of over 35 non-professional singers from a variety of countries and backgrounds. Under the baton of musical director Birgitta Levick, they rehearse every Monday morning in Praia da Luz, culminating in two concerts a year.
The audience was enthralled with hits from popular movies and musicals sung by the choir, small groups, solo singers, and duets. It was a spectacular event that was poignant, energetic, and full of numbers that had the audience laughing, crying, and dancing in the aisles. Scenes from the movies and musicals were projected onto the back of the stage to set the mood for each song, and the choir didn’t disappoint.
The choir opened with their very inspirational signature song, Why We Sing, and from that moment on, they had the audience captivated. Aquarius – Let the Sun Shine In went down a treat and saw the choir donning all sorts of fun “Hippie” apparel, even mingling with the audience while dancing, which had everyone clapping and joining in.
The Finale was a medley of Abba’s greatest hits, which had everyone singing as the concert ended on a high note with Waterloo.
Another concert is scheduled for December. Anyone who is interested in joining the choir should contact the choir’s administrator Annika Nyqvist.
