The annual African Students Association Africa Week at Washington University in St. Louis begins Monday, Feb. 22, and continues through Friday, Feb. 26. This year’s focus is on myths about identity, art and legends and how they affect Africans around the world.
The week’s capstone event will be a performance titled “Sundiata: The King of Mali” by local dance group Afriky Lolo at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 26 and 27, in Edison Theatre.
The show centers on Sundiata, who overcame a physical handicap and founded the powerful Malian empire in 1235. Sundiata set up a federated government and is credited with having a profound impact on the traditions and culture of the Mande people.
Founded and led by Diadié Bathily, Afriky Lolo is a nonprofit organization committed to bringing West African dance and culture to the St. Louis area through teaching and performing.
WUSTL students can purchase tickets for $10; general admission seats are $25. Tickets can be purchased through the Edison Theatre box office or by calling (314) 935-6543.
“Because of limited sources for West African kingdoms, the use of oral tradition became an important source of African history,” says Wilmetta Toliver-Diallo, Ph.D., assistant dean in the College of Arts & Sciences and senior lecturer in African and African-American Studies in Arts & Sciences. “Sundiata’s story told by Mandinka griots is one of the most famous oral traditions. Unique in technique and style, the story glistens with mysticism. The costumes, choreography, lighting and setting combine to make Sundiata a multisensory experience.”
The schedule for Africa Week:
Monday, Feb. 22: “The Warmth of the Human Voice” spoken word night at 7 p.m. at Ursa’s Cafe on the South 40, featuring performances by WUSTL students on topics related to Africa.
Tuesday, Feb. 23: “Myths of Identity” panel discussion at 6 p.m. in the Danforth University Center, Room 234. Moderators will foster discussions on misconceived notions about Africa concerning media, music and charity.
Thursday, Feb. 25: “Mode d’ Afrique Legendaire” fashion show at 7 p.m. in the Danforth University Center Tisch Commons. The show will highlight the latest fashions and jewelry of Africa.
“I’m excited for the university community to see a bit into where I come from and what my culture is about,” says African Students Association President Ifeoluwa Salako, a native of Nigeria and an International and Area Studies major in Arts & Sciences. “Africa Week deals with issues such as identity and myths; we bring the truth and expose the myths.
“This is done through poetry, discussions, film, music, dance and fashion,” Salako says. “They not only showcase what a rich continent Africa is, but bring to light the misconceptions that we here in America are still battling with. I encourage everyone to take these steps to revealing these myths and to join in on the excitement.”
For more information about the African Students Association, visit su.wustl.edu/~asa. To learn more about Afriky Lolo, visit afrikylolo.com.