The acclaimed South African Soweto Gospel Choir comes to the Garde Arts Center on February 2 to deliver a powerful, unforgettable performance as part of the "Faces of Our Planet" series, created by Sea Research Foundation, National Geographic Society and the Garde Arts Center to show the mysteries and discoveries of the world’s human, animal and geographic faces. The 26-strong group features the best talents from Soweto-area churches. Their interpretations of traditional and contemporary music are sung in six of South Africa’s 11 languages with a band, percussion or a capella and include colorful costumes and dance. They have accompanied artists like Bono, Queen, Aretha Franklin, Queen Latifah and Stevie Wonder and performed for Presidents Nelson Mandela and Bill Clinton. Their first album, “Voices of Heaven” hit No. 1 on the Billboard World Music Chart, and they have won three Grammy Awards, including “Best Movie Song” for “Down to Earth”, heard in Disney/Pixar’s Wall-E movie. The group performed the song at the 2009 Academy Awards, making them the first South African artists to perform at the awards ceremony.

Tickets: $35 (orchestra), $42 (loge), $30 (front balcony), $25 (rear balcony); aquarium members: $28, $35, $24, $20. For a complete list of ticket options, including VIP and discount packages, visit the Garde Arts Center Box Office at 325 State St., New London, or call (860) 444-7373 ext.1. Single tickets are available at the Garde Arts Center Box Office and at gardearts.org. Special pricing is available for students and groups.