About
The Hakuna Matata Acrobats, hailing from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, have garnered international acclaim for their exceptional blend of traditional African artistry and contemporary acrobatics. Under the guidance of Winston Ruddle, also known as Papa Afrika, the ensemble has captivated audiences worldwide with their dynamic performances.
Their performances are renowned for spectacular displays of agility, strength, and coordination, all choreographed to celebrate the rich tapestry of African traditions and storytelling. The group seamlessly integrates traditional elements with contemporary acrobatic techniques, creating a mesmerizing fusion that resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Since 2005, the Hakuna Matata Acrobats have embarked on a series of global tours, showcasing their incredible talents on prestigious stages such as Afrika Afrika Super Circus, Cirque Mother Africa, Franco Dragone's House of Dancing Water in Macau, Cirque Africa Australia, CirkAfrika France, and various international versions of "Got Talent." Their performances, characterised by breathtaking human pyramids, gravity-defying flips, unbelievable vertical pole acts, amazing acro dunking, and intricate rolla rolla balancing acts, are further enhanced by the rhythmic beats of African drums and the vibrant colours of traditional costumes.
In 2024, the group gained international acclaim by participating in Season 19 of "America's Got Talent." Their audition featured a captivating acrobatic routine that left the judges and audience in awe. Advancing through the competition, they delivered a death-defying performance during the quarterfinals, which led judge Sofia Vergara to press the Golden Buzzer, sending them directly to the finals. This marked the first time in the show's history that a Golden Buzzer was awarded during the live shows.
Throughout their journey on "America's Got Talent," the Hakuna Matata Acrobats consistently impressed with their complex and dangerous acts, culminating in their appearance as finalists. Their success on the show is a testament to their unwavering dedication, rigorous training, and deep respect for their cultural heritage. Their performances are not just a showcase of physical talent but a vibrant celebration of Africa's diverse cultural landscape.
In 2024, the Hakuna Matata acrobats also participated in "La France a un Incroyable Talent season 19," the French adaptation of the "Got Talent" series. Their audition featured a captivating acrobatic routine that left the judges and audience in awe. Advancing through the competition, they delivered a death-defying performance during the Audition, which led 4 judges Hélène, Ségara Anoine, Marriane James, and Sugar Sammy to press the Platinum Buzzer, sending them directly to the finals. This marked the first time in the show's history that an acrobatic act received the Platinum Buzzer.
Following their success in France, the Hakuna Matata Acrobats represented their country Tanzania and competed in the 44th International Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain in Paris, a prestigious event that showcases the world's top young circus performers. Their performance, characterised by breathtaking human pyramids, on a rolla bolla, an intricate balancing act, earned them the coveted Gold Medal this is the first time Tanzania has received the gold medal in and international event. This accolade is a testament to their exceptional talent and dedication to their craft.
These achievements highlight the Hakuna Matata Acrobats' commitment to excellence and their ability to transcend cultural boundaries through the universal language of performance art. Their journey from Tanzania to international acclaim serves as an inspiration to aspiring performers worldwide.
