Alkebulan: A Musical African Tale was staged this weekend in toronto organized by Batuki Music Society . Directed by Ethe prominent Ethiopian artist Fantahun Shewankochew and featuring several African artists including the Toronto based , Former Ethiopian idol winner Melat Mengesha .
Alkebulan: A Musical African Tale is a timeless love story about a woman whose life and migration cross the African continent. Her physical, spiritual and mystical travels take her to western, eastern and southern Africa. This Musical African tale weaves together theatre, live music and multimedia in a way that will enthrall audiences of all ages.
Written by Ghanaian-Canadian playwright Kobinna Ulzen and directed by Ethiopian-Canadian Fantahun Shewankochew. Alkebulan: A Musical African Tale features a talented cast of actors, musicians, dancers and singers from Montreal and Toronto. Starring Carine au Micro and Pulga Muchochoma, the cast includes a line-up of outstanding musicians and singers; Djely Tapa (vocals), Seydina Ndiaye (vocals), Mambo Chivero (mbira, vocals), Memory Makuri (dance, vocals, hosho), Fantahun Shewankochew (krar, vocals), Melat Mengesha (vocals), Abu Gebre (masenqo), Adama Daou (balafon, calabash, djembe), Aboulaye Koné (guitar), Salif Lasso (fula flute) and Zal Sissokho (kora).
The show was well received well by the audience. “It was a true gift to see that show last night. I wish there were more performances so I could take more people. The singing instruments, my goodness every aspect was so beautiful, thank you.” says one attendee. Others from the audience were also equally impressed with the show’s peculiar way of presenting African culture “It was a unique and amazing talent and storytelling musical I witness on this show yesterday.” says one person .
Nadine McNulty , Artistic Director of Batuki Music Society thanked every one involved .
” We would like to say thank you, merci beaucoup, asante sana to everyone that helped make the show a great success. We were grateful for this opportunity to bring Alkebulan: A Musical African Tale to life, our first theatre production. Thank you to our generous sponsors, media and audience, your support is greatly appreciated.” Nadine remarked .
Photo by Liuel Dawit
