THIS IS A PAY AS YOU CAN EVENT!

This concert will feature two musical and theatrical multimedia performance pieces that draw on the singing and storytelling of epic singers of Mali and Ukraine – performed by musicians who are among the world’s most renowned of these traditions.

The first is a new performance commissioned specially for the conference, of the core Mande epic, Sunjata Keita, performed along with poetic translations of the sung story by Professor Cherif Keita (Carleton College). Featuring Hawa Kasse Mady Diabate (vocals), Fode Lassana Diabate, (balafon) from Mali.

The second is Songs of Truth. Epic “dumy,” ballads and tunes – the traditional repertoire of Ukrainian kobzars – are interwoven with poetic, performative translations. Featuring: Julian Kytasty, bandura and Scott Sharplin, storyteller.

Following this concert there will be a CD Release Party.

Hawa Kasse Mady Diabate and Lassana Diabate are doing school workshops across Cape Breton!

To watch Julian Kytasty play the bandura click here!