We noticed the fliers in the hotel lobby. Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Playing at the State Theater, just down the street. A world renowned South African group, playing in their home country. What were the chances we could get tickets the day of the show?

Pretty good, actually.

We were shocked the theater was only about half full. The show was amazing. Harmonies, and laughter, and dancing, and more laughter. We clapped and sang along. Two hours later they performed their last song, walked off the stage, and the lights rose. We looked at each other, quizzically. If we clapped more, wouldn’t they come back for one more song? Encore! Encore! People excused themselves as they stepped over us, still sitting in our seats, willing them back to the stage.

Alas, they were done.