The two dozen singers, dancers and instrumentalists who make up the Song and Dance Ensemble of West Africa create a rhythmic feast drawing on a variety of influences including traditional Griot songs, reggae, and the sounds of the kora, a 21-stringed instrument of the lute family used across West Africa. Blending the traditional music of Togo, Senegal, Guinea, Ghana, Benin, the Ivory Coast and Mauritania with a contemporary flair, this show brought the land of stories right to our doorsteps in Madison. The players were in top form, challenging one another with style and speed. Rhythm never lacking. The women singers and dancers brought the feel of Mother Earth, or Mother Land clear into the forefront and the lush crowd at the Overture was often caught in rounds of applause. After the show, I had a chance to spend a moment with Mr. Dembele and the Ensemble with laughs shared, this was a show that keeps traditions alive.
Mr. Bamba Dembele and MisterG
