WOMAD

Frititi

From Angola, Ghana, United Kingdom

Information provided by artist management, July 2002:Frititi Traditional African Drumming and Dance CompanyHISTORYWitnessing a world where there are no boundaries between cultures, a multicultural one, frititi (‘ancient’ in Akan) was born to bring up the forgotten and abandoned culture. It challenges itself helping project a more positive image of the continent and dispelling some of the Western myths and negative stereotypes about Africa and its people, bringing self and global awareness of Africa and its customs too.Founded by Nii Tagoe in London 1993 it has gain considerable national and international recognition representing African Performing Arts. The drummers and dancers, coming from Africa, Caribbean and Europe, are a testimony to London as magnet for multiculturalism and artistic excellence.Performances are presented using the musical instruments and costumes for each dance as they are used in their country of origin. A brief introduction of the dances and its meaning is also done during the performance. The group's energy and vigour overwhelmed audiences across Ireland on stage. On a visit to the prestigious Belfast Festival, Frititi "with their pulsating sounds from Africa" played to sold out venues.Its repertoire embraces the width and breadth, complexities and subtleties of dance from the continent. Audiences are treated to an unforgettable mix of music and dance from as far a field as Gambia and the Zulu land, and much in between those two countries. Dances like Lo Lo and Egwabo (Ghana), Kumpo (Senegal), Tematei (Ivory Coast), Sindimba (Tanzania) and the Zulu dance Iphi Yeza (South Africa). They are invited to participate in performances – call and response, or even to get up and shake the leg!NII TAGOE Was born in Accra, Ghana, into a royal family from whom he inherited his talent for drumming, dancing and singing. His experience ranges from years of travel learning and performing around the continent (specially in Zulu Land and throughout Central and West Africa) for 15 years to touring productions and workshops around Europe, Israel, Canada and South Africa, gathering significant information on dance and music from many African countries.He came to Britain to joined Adzido Pan African Dance Ensemble. The company employed Nii as a principal performer, supervisor and workshop leader. Adzido present in performance a variety of dances across the African continent. The company develops programmes where African dance and music is brought to all areas of education, theatre and community. Nii toured nationally and internationally in company devised productions. He has choreographed many dances, including Peter Gabriel’s floor show at the London Millennium Dome and the Sun Dance (Zulu Dance), lead by Patty Boulaye in the Eurovision Contest and various appearances in the BBC and fundraising events.Nii also worked with remarkable directors such as Chuck Mike, in the acclaimed piece Yerma, touring all over the United Kingdom. He has been performed as percussionist, singer and composer with world music chart toppers: Baka Beyond, African Headcharge, Osibisa and others and runs his own afro, funky-jazz band Frititi. In 1993 Nii founded his own Drumming and Dance Company, Frititi. As the Artistic Director, he brings to the group a life’s time immersion in his deep knowledge of the diverse dance rhythmic traditions of Ghana and other African cultures.In addition to his choreographic and performative experience, Nii runs a weekly African drumming and dance class open to everyone. The classes held in Brixton, since 1997, aims to introduce African Drumming, Dance and Singing to the local community as well as to people willing to further their knowledge. He continues to study and researching about traditional African music and dance as a foundation for his own work.Workshops In addition to performances Frititi are available for dance and drumming workshops in venues such as schools, community centres and dance Theatres.Nii Tagoe is an experienced teacher. He has taught several professional troupes including the dancers in the Millenium Floor Show in the Dome.Drumming workshops are ideal for business people. They help to relax the body and mind whist building a strong sense of team spirit. Frititi also offers 8-17-year-olds training in African drumming, dance and singing. The skills children learn are not just for the stage, but for life and all children are able to benefit with the chances to develop their confidence, self-discipline and communication with others. It focus not so much in performance, but more on the development of each child, although some view it as an excellent starting point for a professional career.Workshops introduce participants to African dances and rhythms, demonstrating the complex relationship between drummers and between drummers and dancers, thus encouraging understanding, respect and enjoyment of African dance, music and culture. Nii Tagoe holds dynamic and fun weekly dance and drumming classes that are open to everyone. Every TUESDAY @ ground Floor Studios, 130 Brixton Hill SW2 1RS, Tel. 02086712223MUSICApart form the Drumming and Dance Company, Frititi also perform as a band. Formed in 1995 by Nii Tagoe, has been recording on studio and performing, participating in events such as ACE (African Celtic Experience – Wales), World Music Nights (organized by Freddy Macha – London), Worldbeat (Sopheck Sessions – Cambridge) and other festivals and private events.Frititi band consist of a number of musicians originated from a wide variety of countries: Ghana, Cameroon, Caribbean Islands, Germany and U.K, who came together to share their experience and knowledge of music, The result is a wealth of music talent and ability to enrich the music experience.Osibisa’s legendary frontman, Teddy Osei, acknowledge the high quality of Frititi music and he is a source of encouragement to the band, allowing them to play his old versions in live gigs.Frititi music combines Traditional African rythyms with Funk, Jazz and Highlight. The performances are full of energy, enriched by virtuous dances and colourful costumes.CONTACTSFor bookings or any more information contact:Natacha MendesAddress: Flat 5, 41 Allen Road London N16 8RXTel: ++44.207.9230585 ++44.7932866367Email: frititi@hotmail.com