This week, a musical show premiering in Dubai wants to take you on a journey through South Africa’s past, its present and to the very core of your heart.

Under African Skies, which began its first of four nights’ stay last night (Wednesday) at the Madinat Jumeirah, is an emotional journey through one country but with stories with a global resonance, say its creators.

“I think it shows how music unites and how it transcends all boundaries,” says Ashleigh Bradford, the production manager. “Because of South Africa’s history, the messages in the songs are very moving and powerful and people around the world have identified with it.”

Featuring eight singers and a six-piece band, music from South African greats including the late Grammy Award-winning singer Miriam Makeba, popularly known as Mama Africa, musician Johnny Clegg and Afropop band Mango Groove, feature heavily in the production. Song and dance are interspersed with narration which begins with South Africa in the ‘40s right through to the present day. American legend Paul Simon, whose highly-acclaimed 1986 album Graceland was inspired by South African music, is another highlight. In fact, Simon’s song from the album, Under African Skies, was the inspiration behind the show’s title.

The show, which debuted in 2003 in the city of George in South Africa’s Western Cape province, quickly went national after its debut. It was only a matter of time before international promoters wanted in.

“We had a lot of tourists come to see the show. One Dutch promoter was so blown away he wanted to take it to Holland,” says Bradford.

The Dubai stop follows shows in France, Netherlands, Denmark, Turkey, the Caribbean, Bahrain and Belgium. Audience reactions in each of the countries have been consistent, says Bradford.

“We get a standing ovation for every show. Everywhere we’ve been, it’s been highly successful. People cry in the show, moved by the stories, the messages in the songs and obviously the music,” she says.

“I think because South Africa has been through such hard times, there is a sense of identification. It has its sad moments, happy moments and of course, the celebration of unification.”

Producers have deliberately tried to steer away from politics, adds Bradford.

“We touch on a few aspects but the main message is about music being an unifying force.”

After Dubai, Under African Skies will return to its home country for more shows.