IndegenAfrika Rocks Alliance Francaise

IndegenAfrika, a youthful group based at the National Theatre in Accra recently surprised a near capacity audience at the Alliance Francaise in Accra with diverse African folks that were presented in the contemporary vein.

With an array of African Traditional instruments including atetenben/wia flutes, giant Ashanti fontonfrom drums, conch shells, xylophones, bells and Ga gome drums, the group sowed the seeds of an innovative creation as old folks tunes were provided with a new life and fresh breath.

Indeed, ancestral and traditional tunes stood at the interface of the modern and contemporary as these young boys and girls, obviously proud of their tradition and culture powerful exposed the richness and diversity of African music.

Tunes such as Yen Ara Asase, Okwampa, Abladee, Asansa, Susumbri, Nkululeko, Kotoklo, Lanmaya, Awo Awo, Adaigba, Kristiana, Sweet Mother, Akatih and among others composed by Prof. Kwabena Nketia, Nana Acheampong, Afoley Odai and others provided a captivating groove for the audience to reflect, enjoy and feel the power of creativity.

As the night wore on, several members of the audience, which included expatriates and tourists rushed to the dancing floor as they admired the skills and dedication exhibited by these young artistes. In the process, cheers and cat calls flowed when a white couple exposed their skills in african traditional dancing.

Formed several years ago, Indegen Afrika has performed to cheering audiences in numerous countries. These include Benin, Zimbabwe, Republic of South Africa, Austria, Germany and The Netherlands.

They have also performed in several Ghanaian cities and towns and have featured in several high profile concerts at the National Theatre in Accra not to mention shows for several visiting heads of states.

The programme was organized, sponsored and presented by the Alliance Francaise in collaboration with the French Embassy in Accra.