The internationally acclaimed masterpiece Oratorio for Human Rights returns home honouring Human Rights Day. Presented by UJ Arts & Culture, a division of the Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture (FADA), the South African premiere of this acclaimed work will be performed on stage at UJ Arts Centre, Keorapetse William Kgositsile theatre on 22 March 2026.
Jeanne Zaidel-Rudolph’s Oratorio for Human Rights was first performed at Rome’s Teatro Argentina in 2018 to mark the 70th anniversary of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Oratorio transforms the ideals of freedom, equality, and dignity into an unforgettable musical journey. Selected from over 400 entries from 196 countries, it has captivated global audiences and earned international acclaim.
Rooted in Section 6 of the Declaration, the work celebrates fundamental human rights including education, social security, work and rest, cultural participation, and protection of mothers and children. Every note and lyric invites reflection on dignity, equality, and our shared responsibility to uphold human rights.
“When the call for scores came for an Oratorio for Human Rights, I immediately resonated with the theme as a South African woman,” says Zaidel-Rudolph, whose compositions champion the voices of women and youth.
The South African premiere features the renowned UJ Choir and Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra under celebrated conductor and broadcaster Kutlwano Masote. Pianist Bryan Schimmel, one of South Africa’s most respected music directors with a 35-year career spanning theatre, orchestral, choral and contemporary genres, brings his extensive musical expertise to the production. Soprano Yolisa Ngwexana, who reached the semifinals of the prestigious UNISA International Competition, brings her award-winning artistry to the stage alongside the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture, Professor Federico Freschi, performing the baritone solo.
The programme also includes excerpts from Zaidel-Rudolph’s Youth Oratorio, highlighting the journey from childhood innocence to the challenges of adolescence. Echoing the Oratorio’s enduring message: human rights, opportunity, and dignity belong to all.
Anchored UJ’s commitment to artistic excellence, social engagement, and student-centred cultural experiences, this premiere is part of UJ Arts & Culture’s commitment to creating inclusive cultural spaces, where students, staff, and the broader community can engage critically with socially relevant art, experience international-calibre performances, and reflect on the power of creativity to inspire change.
Date: 22 March 2026 | Time: 19:00
Venue: UJ Arts Centre, Keorapetse William Kgositsile theatre, Auckland Park
Tickets: UJ Students: R150 | Pensioners: R150 | UJ Staff: R180 | General: R200
