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Festival-goers anticipating the renowned Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2023 can rejoice as the event promises energetic and funky performances by Safi Theatre Group from Tanzania and Afriquoi from the UK.
With a lineup that celebrates cultural diversity and musical innovation, RWMF offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the enchanting world of world music.
Safi Theatre Group showcasing traditional Tanzanian music
Safi Theatre Group, a captivating dance-based performance group, brings the rhythm and artistry of traditional Tanzanian ngoma music to the RWMF stage. The group’s performances are a delightful blend of improvisation, drumming, dance, and acrobatics, captivating audiences with their vibrant and lively shows. By incorporating traditional percussive instruments such as the Snare drum, Conga flutes, and Toms, Safi Theatre creates a truly immersive and danceable experience.
Led by Ramadhani Maneno, the group comprises young musicians and dancers between the ages of 10 to 20. Their performances are inspired by the rich traditions and cultural diversity of Tanzania, which they believe should be shared with the world.
Maneno emphasizes the importance of including young performers, as they are key to preserving heritage and traditions for future generations.
Safi Theatre Group has previously showcased their talents at international events like the Festival Rudolstadt in Germany and Saruj Kund Mela in India, fostering cultural exchange and potential collaborations.
Afriquoi’s mesmerizing fusion at the Rainforest World Music Festival
Hailing from the UK, Afriquoi brings an incomparable and mesmerizing sound that fuses African rhythms with live electronic beats. Their performances combine traditional Gambian kora, Congolese guitar, and Mandinka percussion styles with electronic music genres such as house, garage, disco, soul, and jungle. This unique blend creates an energetic and uplifting atmosphere that gets the crowd on their feet and dancing.
The band consists of talented musicians including Jally Kebba Susso on the Kora, Fiston Lusambo on guitar, Andre Espeut as the lead vocalist, Nico Bentley on electronics, keyboard, and bass, and André Marmot on percussion. Afriquoi’s music carries messages of togetherness, health, healing, and happiness, resonating with a global cult fanbase.
Their track “Kudaushe” has become an Afro-house classic, captivating audiences in clubs worldwide. The band has graced major stages at renowned festivals like Glastonbury, WOMAD, and the London 2012 Olympics.
As the Rainforest World Music Festival returns for its 26th edition, the event invites musicians and world music enthusiasts from around the globe to experience a diverse range of musical styles at the Sarawak Cultural Village. With the theme “Reflections,” RWMF 2023 encourages festival-goers to reflect on their connection with nature while embracing the vibrant sounds and values of world music.
The festival boasts an impressive lineup of 199 musicians from 12 countries across four continents. From Grammy Award winners Gipsy Kings to Safi Theatre, Afriquoi, and other renowned international and local acts, RWMF offers a platform for cultural exchange and appreciation. The event’s
For more information on the musical lineup and ticketing, visit the official Rainforest World Music Festival website at www.rwmf.net.
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