The Drakensberg Boys Choir is preparing for the festive season to present traditional Christmas hymns, African rhythms, and modern Christmas hits to audiences across South Africa as part of their 'Noël Tour' in 2026.
The internationally acclaimed choir will begin its 'The Light Has Come' tour from November 20th to 29th, planning eight performances in Bethlehem, Pretoria, Johannesburg, and the Western Cape.
The program is inspired by the birth of Christ and explores themes of hope, peace, and joy, offering listeners a musical journey from the sublime beauty of sacred choral music to the energetic sounds of Christmas celebrations.
For fans of classic holiday melodies, the repertoire includes both familiar favorites and unexpected musical surprises, such as Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas', 'Jingle Bells', and 'Little Drummer Boy'. Additionally, the program features traditional hymns, including 'O Holy Night', 'The First Noël', 'Joy to the World', and 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing', alongside music inspired by Africa and renowned choral works.
Christmas Concert in Two Parts
According to Jacques Linde, head of choir activities at the Drakensberg Boys Choir School and the choir's conductor, the program was designed to convey the various emotions associated with the festive season.
The first half, titled 'The Mystery of Light', is dedicated to the miraculous birth of Christ through sacred choral pieces and traditional hymns. Highlights include 'Once in Royal David's City', 'From Our Earth from Stella Natalis' by Karl Jenkins, 'Bogoróditse Djévo' by Arvo Pärt, and 'O Magnum Mysterium' by Jacobus Gallus.
The second part, 'Light Becomes Celebration', shifts the mood towards more energetic celebration, presenting 'Gloria' from Paul Basler's Mass of Kenya, the spiritual composition 'Ride On, King Jesus!', and African works 'An African Christmas' and 'Merrie Krismis'. The program concludes with the beloved hymn 'Silent Night'.
Linde noted: 'We want the audience to feel the full spectrum of Christmas emotions.' He added that the first half contains moments where the music is so beautiful and quiet that it feels as if the room is holding its breath. The second half demonstrates the wonderful energy for which the Drakies are known, thanks to African rhythms, familiar hymns, and celebratory music.
He also emphasized that the program offers something for viewers of all ages, telling a story through music.
Johannesburg Concert Promises Festive Magic
One of the main events of the tour will be the choir's annual Christmas performance at The Venue at Melrose Arch in Johannesburg on Sunday, November 22nd, at 6:00 PM. The concert, titled 'Noël Tour – Magic and Music at Every Corner', is part of the Melrose Arch festive events and continues the venue's tradition of hosting the choir during the Christmas period.
Natalie Stuart, Managing Director of Melrose Arch, stated that the school's return was a bright highlight of the district's festive program. She said: 'Their music brings a special atmosphere to the area, creating moments of joy and togetherness for families and visitors.'
The concert at Melrose Arch has a limited capacity of 350 people, and tickets cost 350 Rand per person, including children under 12. Tickets are available through Melrose Arch and Computicket. Tickets for the entire 'Noël Tour' can be purchased on the Drakensberg Boys Choir School website.
More Than a Musical Tradition
The 'Noël Tour' follows a busy year for the choir, which performed at Music in the Mountains and Music in the City events, and participated in a South African tour where the young singers visited Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Founded in 1967, the Drakensberg Boys Choir School combines academic education with intensive musical training, physical development, and social enrichment in a Christian environment.
For Executive Director Hendrik Becker, this tour means more than just showcasing the boys' musical talent. He stated: 'For many families, Christmas is a time for reconnecting, reflection, and celebrating what is most important.' He continued: 'That's what makes our Noël Tour so special. It's about much more than beautiful music. It's about creating moments that families can share, reminding us of the hope Christmas brings, and leaving a little more joy in listeners' hearts.'