Head to the Hall this Saturday for an Afro-fusion electric band playing blends of West African, Zimbabwean, reggae, hip hop, jazz, gospel, and soul music.
Kikeyambay is a collaboration between Alseny Diallo's deep knowledge of Guinean modern and traditional music, and the passion of Vancouver’s dynamic West African dancer super star N’Nato Camara. Together they front the dynamic, West African drum and dance show and Electric Afro-fusion Orchestra.
Kikeyambay has headlined at the Seattle World Rhythm Festival, Edge of the World Music Festival in Haida Gwaii, and the Diversity Festival on Texada Island, as well as many other festivals and venues. The band sold out the Errington Hall on their last visit three years ago.
Band leader Alseny Michel Diallo is considered one of the best djembé players in Canada. He hails from Guinea, West Africa and has been working in the Guinean Music scene for over 15 years, performing in different ballets and participating in festivals and competitions, as well as showcasing in Guinea’s largest theatres, Le Centre Nimbia and Le Centre Culturel.
On Saturday afternoon before the show, get a chance to learn traditional drum and dance with both Alseny Diallo and N’Nato Camara. The dance class is from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. and the drum class, from 1:45-3 p.m. Both classes are $20 each or two classes for $35. For more information about the workshops, contact Ilana Moon at ilana@healinghandsvictoria.com.
Tickets for the show are $20 at the Errington Store, Cranky Dog Music in Parksville and Heaven on Earth in Qualicum Beach. Tickets are $5 at the door for 12 and under, and under 5s are free.
For more information visit www.kikeyambay.com.
—Submitted by Val Dare/News Staff