Next week sees the highlight of a summer like no other in Brecon, where this month more than 100 Zulus have taken over the town with parades, displays and spectacular performances, King Cetshwayo: The Musical, comes to Theatr Brycheiniog.

Portraying the life of King Cetshwayo, this powerful musical features live music, traditional shembe dance, projection and storytelling, the show runs from Wednesday August 23 to Friday, August 25.

Written by Jerry Pooe, this new production will tell the King Cetshwayo story in three episodes, looking at his preparation for Battle, the epic battle itself at Isandlwana and then his capture and stay in London. The performance contains authentic amahubo singing and vibrant action filled dance. The epic story features over 25 performers including members of the Zulu Royal Family and is re-created through storytelling, song, multi-media and movement in this unique Zulu style.

“We are so proud to have the world premiere of this amazing theatrical event," say Theatr Brychieniog. "Brecon has an amazing and unique history with the Zulus and South Africa and we are delighted to be at the centre of such a historic occasion. Brecon will not see anything like this again for a long time.”

The opening night on Wednesday, August 23 will be a special gala performance of King Cesthwayo: The Musical with an opening by the High Commissioner of South Africa.

On August 26 in Brecon Cathedral, there will be a performance of Shembe music and dance, South African Gospel, Zulu Wedding songs and Anglican Church hymns all performed by the King’s Royal Zulu Choir, then on August 27, the Zulu Royal Family and Government Officials will follow in the footsteps of King Cetshwayo on a trail around London, before the celebrations head back to Wales. On August 28 and 29, John Young will be delivering two talks on the Anglo-Zulu War including the death of the French Prince Imperial and the battle of Isandlwana. Also on August 29 there will be a showing of the film “Zulu Dawn” at the Coliseum Cinema, Brecon.

August 31 will see an epic re-enactment in Cardiff Castle of the battle of Isandlwana, where the outgunned Zulus led by King Cetshwayo triumphed through their determination and preparation.

In addition to these events there will be an exhibition of images and Zulu artefacts on display in the Andrew Lamont Gallery in Theatr Brycheiniog, from August 24 until Monday 4 September.

To book tickets or for further information visit brycheiniog.co.uk or call 01874 611622.