With the addition of an exciting road show lined up, the MTN Joyous Celebration tour is set to bring audiences more joy and reason to give praise.

The MTN Joyous Celebration’s 16th album, which was recorded at Carnival City in Johannesburg, will be released to commemorate this occasion. The Joyous 16 album (CD and DVD) is titled Royal Priesthood which means ‘the chosen race, a holy nation and God’s very own possession.’ This beautiful title complements not only the loyal support following that the gospel ensemble have received, but also sings praise and thanks to all Joyous supporters that have been accumulated over the years.

MTN has cemented its relationship with MTN Joyous Celebration for yet another year which will allow them to take the nation on a journey of celebration with their 16th album:

“We are truly blessed to carry on our relationship with MTN as our sponsor for a second year running. We feel that the partnership with MTN helped us to realise our vision and dream for the 2011-celebration, and we are excited to achieve even greater milestones in 2012,” says Jabu Hlongwane, founding member of the gospel ensemble.

Desiree Pooe, MTN SA’s senior manager of Sponsorships and Events says: “MTN Joyous Celebration is not a sponsorship but rather a partnership between the gospel music phenomenon and an Ayoba mobile network provider. As a supporter of local music and talent, MTN is excited about MTN Joyous Celebration reaching the sweet 16th milestone. We look forward to connecting our customers and MTN Joyous Celebration fans with their favourite gospel ensemble in the album an ayoba and royal fashion.”

In another exciting development, auditions to become a member of MTN Joyous Celebration will be held again this year. Aspiring singers should start preparing themselves for the opportunity of a lifetime. This year’s auditions will be taken to the next level with mini workshops on the music industry that have been designed to educate candidates who take part in the audition process. These mini workshops will also provide tangible pointers for the auditions.

As part of the 2012-tour, people will be able to join the MTN Joyous Celebration cast at selected venues prior to the performances. Fans will be able to meet and greet the cast at these roadshows.

The first stop for the MTN Joyous Celebration tour will be the South African State Theatre in Tswane from Thursday, 5 to Sunday, 8 April. Tickets retail for R200 to R300 via Computicket and bookings are open. The starting times for the shows are 19:30, with additional matinees on the Saturday and Sunday, starting at 14:00.

MTN joyous Celebration is happy to announce that other places that the tour will visit are:
Polokwane, North West, Port Elizabeth and Durban.

For more information on MTN Joyous Celebration concerts as well as the release of Joyous 16, please visit their Facebook page - “My Joyous Celebration” - for exciting news and ticket giveaways.