The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Choir concert that was scheduled to come to the Keith Albee theater Nov. 17 has been canceled. Naturally 7, an a cappella group, will perform in their place that evening.

Recently there have been news stories about protests over tuition and fees at universities in South Africa. The protests have become more violent. The FeesMustFall movement has effectively closed many South African universities, and has caused damage in the millions.

At Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, classes have been cancelled for four weeks, forcing them to cancel their North American tour. Although the university has not sustained property damage or any injuries during the unrest, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Choir has been impacted as the students need to complete their academic year.

“We are disappointed that the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Choir will be unable to perform as part of our 80th season, but are glad all students are safe,” said Penny Watkins, executive director for the Marshall Artist Series, in a news release.

Replacing the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Choir is the a cappella group, Naturally 7. This seven-man group of musicians does not use any instruments other than their mouths to create sounds. Naturally 7 not only sings, but also creates every backing instrument heard in its songs, including drums, bass, guitars, horns, flutes and turntables.

They have made appearances on television shows such as Ellen and The Today Show. In the spring, Naturally 7 performed at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and were featured guests of Diana Ross at her two concerts at the Hollywood Bowl in July.

All tickets for the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Choir show will be honored Nov. 17 at the Naturally 7 performance.  The performance is free for full time Marshall students and half off for part time students. The performance will remain at 7:30 p.m. at the Keith Albee Theater.

Tickets will be available for students Oct. 27 at noon in the box office located in the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse on the Marshall University campus. Box office hours are Monday through Friday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Krislyn Holden can be contacted at [email protected].