YOU cannot fail to have a smile on your face after watching a performance by the Soweto Gospel Choir.

The 24-strong group of singers, dancers and musicians gathered on the stage of the newly restored Everyman and it proved to be a colourful explosion of gospel singing at its best.

They brought their new show, African Grace, to Cheltenham for the end of a sell out tour around the UK.

With a mixture of traditional songs and contemporary African works, the South African choir had the entire audience on their feet at the end, clapping and waving hands in the air.

At the beginning, one of the members informed everyone the show features songs depicting all aspects of grace, beauty and love.

Their bright African costumes were absolutely stunning.

Following the call-and-response pattern of traditional African music, singers took turns to step forward and lead the choir, revealing voices that were as individual and distinctive as their costumes.

They belted out strong, clear renditions of classics including Bridge Over Troubled Water and Many Rivers to Cross.

The dancing was fantastic and brought a lot of energy to the joy-filled show.

All the performers brought something to the performance, including the drummers, footstampers, finger snappers and clappers.

Since the choir started in 2002, its style has become a worldwide phenomenon and you can see why.

Emma Tilley