A VIST from lion dancers proved a roaring success as pupils enjoyed lessons in culture from out of Africa.
Marchbank School, Darlington, played host to The Lions of Zululand, a group of South African musicians, who performed a celebration of tribal songs and dance inspired by traditional Zulu culture.
Mduduzi Mkize, founder of The Lions of Zululand, said: “We arrived from South Africa three weeks ago to introduce to schools our traditional Zulu music and dance that have been passed down to us from generation to generation.
“Our group are all from different villages in South Africa and bring with them many different styles of singing and dancing as well as blending their own culture and crafts to give students a real feeling of Zululand.
“We always get a fantastic reception from the children, many of who will never have seen a Zulu before. They love joining in with the dancing and singing and are always fascinated by our traditional costumes and shields.”
After performing in full tribal costume the group led the students in an afternoon of African arts.
Principal Mandy Southwick said: “We are always looking at ways of bringing different cultures to life by offering our students first-hand enrichment experiences.
“The amazing performance by The Lions of Zululand gave me goose bumps and I am sure that all of the children will remember it for the rest of their lives.
“The group were really good at interacting with the children and it has been a fabulous cultural experience.”