SOUTH Africa's legendary scathamiya group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, is finally getting the recognition it deserves, especially locally

The group's performance at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown on Saturday was sold out.

For a group of Mambazo's stature, a 60-minute performance was just not enough. When the group's performance ended the audience was still begging for more.

Mambazo presented the audience with the most energetic and entertaining performance that captured the imagination of music lovers. Sharing the lead role with his sons, group leader Joseph Shabalala gave them an opportunity to showcase their talent.

The kings of cothoza music took those who follow them down memory lane with songs such as Nomathemba, Homeless and Hallow my Baby.

The group's thrilling performance was among the music highlights on offer at this year's festival that ran from June 30 until yesterday.

Dubbed the biggest arts extravaganza in the southern hemisphere, the 37th addition of the festival once again proved that it is not only about performing arts but arts in general.

Festival followers enjoyed the best music, drama, comedy, dance, classical music, physical theatre, musical theatre, visual arts exhibitions, and children's attractions in several venues.

This year's music programme boasted the country's best talent. In the bill were Tutu Puoane, Brian Thusi, Khaya Mahlangu, Don Laka and Selaelo Selota, among others.

The rain that poured during the festival caused glitches that caused shows to be delayed.

Street performers were robbed of an opportunity to show off their talent to the public. As soon as the weather cleared on Saturday, the small town of Rhini became busy.

When festival-goers were tired of watching shows, they went to Green Village and indulged in the extravaganza of strolling through busy festival markets to purchase from the spoils of hundreds of craft and food stalls.

This year's festival has been praised by theatre critics and practitioners for bringing productions of the best quality.