Mandinka Sound

Rhythm of Africa The rhythm and beats of Africa come to Don Russell Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, 4 September at 8pm with the arrival of national touring show Mandinka Sound. Derived from West Africa, but with contemporary Australian influences, Mandinka Sound fuses vibrant rhythms, amazing vocal harmonies, stunning costumes, exotic percussion grooves and almost superhuman dance moves. This Kultour touring show is a collaboration of two talented groups, Muhanamwé and One Africa. The first half features Melbourne’s much-loved West African musicians King Marong and guitarist/vocalist Lamine Sonko, who comprise the intimate acoustic act that is One Africa. Providing the rhythm and groove is King Marong. He has been performing since the age of 12 and has become the master of numerous African drumming styles and instruments. Vocalist/guitarist Lamine Sonko hails from a famous Senegalese Griot (praise singing) family and has performed internationally alongside greats such as Youssou Ndour, Vivianne Ndour and Fatou Nguewel Diouf. Internationally acclaimed performers Muhanamwé fill the other half of the show with djembe drums, balafon (wooden xylophone) and electrifying Guinean song and dance. Muhanamwé, meaning culture, has emerged from Melbourne’s world music scene as one of its freshest and most exciting West African percussion and dance ensembles. Led by master drummers Aliou Sylla (Les Percussions de Guinée) and Mohamed Camara (Ballet Destin, Ballet Bolonta and Les Sorciers de Guinée), Muhanamwé features percussionists Anna Camara and extraordinary dancer Mory Traore. Muhanamwé’s compelling rhythms, raw vocal harmonies, rippling balafon melodies, stunning costumes and incredible dance moves, takes an ancient West African musical tradition to another level. Admission is $29 standard, $24.70 concession and $21.10 students and groups of 10 or more. For bookings or information, please call 9493 4577 or visit www.gosnells.wa.gov.au and click on the Don Russell Performing Arts Centre link to buy tickets online.