National News
Closing ceremony: African feel
2010-07-07 20:14
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Johannesburg - The 2010 World Cup closing ceremony would combine a "distinct African feel" with world class technology and a contemporary, youthful theme, the local organising committee said on Wednesday.
"Africa's first FIFA World Cup has showcased the unique and colourful spirit and warmth of the African continent and its people," the organising committee's chief marketing officer Derek Carstens said in a statement.
"The closing ceremony will pay tribute to that spirit with a world-class production," he said.
"While the opening ceremony was more traditional in its approach, in order to do justice to Africa's heritage, the closing ceremony will have more contemporary and youthful themes.
"It takes place at night, which will allow for more dramatic lighting and special effects."
The ceremony takes place before the tournament's final match, which starts at 20:30.
Colombian pop star Shakira would perform her hit song Waka Waka with local act Freshlyground.
Also in the line-up would be multiple Grammy Award winners Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Jozi, Stoan Seate, Slikour, Zuluboy, Abigail Kubeka, Theo Kgosinkwe, Afrikaans artists Nianell and flutist Wouter, Nigeria's 2Face, Ghana's Samini and popular local traditional group Ihashi Elimhlophe.
The 30-minute ceremony would start at 18:30 at Soccer City and would be a "colourful, celebratory tribute" to the tournament, the fans and their experiences during the month-long event.
With a cast of 780 members, the ceremony would be broadcast live in 215 countries to more than 500 million viewers.