Afraa Kori
Watoto Children’s Choir returns to Australia for a global tour, bringing the iconic sounds of Africa and gospel after a five-year hiatus.
One tour stop is Jesus the Redeemer Christian Fellowship in Werribee on August 25 from 10:30am and 2pm.
The choir, comprising 12 children between the ages of ten and 14, will perform songs from their album, Better Days—There Is Hope.
Over the years, choir members have met Queen Elizabeth, performed for the President of the United States, and visited almost every major parliament in the world.
Director of Watoto Australia and New Zealand Sam Di Mauro said Watoto’s comeback is good news for the community.
“It’s been 5 years since the choir last toured Australia, and they have been missed by our global family. Many of our supporters are invested in the work of Watoto and the choir is always a reminder of the good work Watoto is doing,“ Mr Di Mauro said.
“We are thrilled that the choir is returning after a hiatus of five years and our expectations are high. This time away has only deepened the choir’s message of hope and resilience, especially after the challenges of the pandemic. Australian audiences have always welcomed us with open arms, and we believe they will be moved by the stories of transformation and joy the children bring. This new production will resonate deeply, offering a fresh perspective on the power of community and faith to overcome adversity. We can’t wait to connect withour existing supporters and inspire new ones.”
The three-month tour presents the story of orphaned and abandoned African children who’ve received the love and care needed to help them rise above their circumstances, ready to make a difference in the world as they become Africa’s future leaders.
Like Africa, the production is vibrant and colourful, taking you on an emotional journey as the children sing, dance, and share their personal stories of restoration and hope.
“We tell our audience to come ready to sing and dance but perhaps keep some tissues handy,” Mr Di Mauro said.
“One of the little boys on the tour is 11-year-old, Daniel David. Daniel David was abandoned as an infant, rescued by a good Samaritan and placed with us at Baby Watoto where a dedicated nanny provided the care he needed. By the age of three, Daniel David moved into his new home in one of our Watoto villages where a loving Watoto mother became the anchor in his young life. Daniel David thrived. Now, this once vulnerable little boy is about to embark on the journey of a lifetime travelling with the Watoto Children’s Choir across Australia.
“We believe the stories and experiences of the children in our choir will resonate deeply with our Australian audience particularly those who have been through a tough time. These kids have had the worst possible start to life and yet they can still smile and share the message that, no matter what you are going through, there are better days ahead. Look what God’s done in my life.”
The choir tour is also a great opportunity for children to see the world outside of Uganda, helping shape their confidence and leadership abilities.
“The Watoto Children’s Choir in many ways is a leadership academy where hundreds of choir alumni have gone on to become leaders in their communities and spheres of influence. Today, some of our adult choir leaders were once children on tour, now feeding into the lives of their younger Watoto brothers and sisters.”
On a deeper level, the tour aims to raise awareness about social justice and humanitarian issues.
“We really hope the choir tour will shine a spotlight on all humanitarian issues whether in Uganda or on our own doorstep.There’s room for us big-hearted Aussies to respond to both,“ Mr Di Mauro said.
Tour details: www.watoto.com/choir/
