This is a video of a rehearsal of the Akrowa Dance Ensemble based in Kokrobite, outside of Accra Ghana. The group has about 10 drummers and several dancers, three of whom were practicing their moves along with the group. Cultural dancing often involves playing out a story.

Toward the end of the video, there is an informal interview with Okoe Ardyfio, the founder of Akrowa Dance Ensemble. He has studied, traveled with, and currently works with Mustapha Tettey Addy, the renowned Ghanaian drummer and founder of the Academy of African Music and Arts (AAMA). In addition to leading Akrowa and traveling around the world performing, Okoe also teaches drumming and cultural dancing.

Read the rest of this entry »