African Footprint impresses in Europe

A dramatic fusion of the elements of Kpanlogo, Kundum, Bawa, Sikyi and Gahu by African Footprint International last week received a loud applause at the Alsion Theatre in Sønderborg, Denmark.

In an impressive performance which forms part of the 2013 edition of the Triangle Folklore Festival, the group showcased the variety and beauty of traditional Ghanaian dance and music that have been effectively blended with components of Danish music.

With a cool blend of loud Ghanaian percussive instruments alongside guitars and remarkable voices from Danish musicians Mette Marie Jensen Ørnstrup and Mette Bak Nielsen, the group managed to capture the attention of the largely elderly audience, who cut in with intermittent applause.

Directed by Samuel Addison with Jens Pieter on guitar, Abraham Mensah on percussion alongside Kenyan acrobats, the production, which dwelt on courtship, love, childbirth, religion and conflict, was highly memorable.

Undeniably, the production successfully unveiled useful points about custom and culture, as well as hints of history, and recalled ancient story-telling traditions of Ghana.

“Highly expressive, well-coordinated movements and infectious rhythms coupled with intense energy from the stage created an atmosphere of an African celebration,” said Mia Perdesen, an anthropologist in Sønderborg.

“It was interesting to see Danish musicians on stage with their Ghanaian colleagues – what an amazing cross cultural collaboration,” added Brit Hansen, a musician/dancer from Copenhagen.

Triangle Folklore Festival, which began in 1995, has witnessed the participation of fantastic folklore groups from all over the world. They have filled public squares in various cities with colourful folklore performances, which have been exceedingly pleasant to the local people. Godsbanen, Royal Academy of Music (Århus), Addison’s Mighty Works Apps, African Footprint Legends, Keld Hosbond, Klejtrup Musikefterskole, Den Rytmiske Højeskole, Shanghai Akademi, Sydjurs Musikskole, Brandbjerg Højskole and www.artsghana.com are supporting the African Footprint tour of Denmark.