Southlanders invited to immerse themselves in African culture
Southlanders invited to immerse themselves in African culture
Robert Koffie Fugah, a Ghanaian, finds spiritual significance in rhythmic drumming and dancing, not in the conventional religious sense, but because it stirs your emotions and connects with your inner self.
He believes that spirituality is about finding meaning and happiness. When you engage in dancing or drumming, it uplifts your spirit and brings joy.
Furthermore, Fugah sees life and vitality in every aspect of this art form, from the wood of the drum to the stretched animal skin and the person playing it. It’s no surprise that people feel a profound connection when they participate.
Fugah, who resides in Dunedin, is inviting people in Invercargill to experience the essence of West African culture through a drumming and dancing workshop on November 19. He’s confident that attendees will enjoy it so much that they might be inspired to create their own drumming groups, as others have done elsewhere in New Zealand.
Group drumming has been demonstrated to alleviate feelings of anxiety and loneliness, making it a holistic and therapeutic experience.
Having lived in New Zealand for a decade, Fugah has been able to share his culture and childhood folklore with communities, fulfilling his dream of spreading African traditions. Drumming and dancing are universal, enabling people from diverse backgrounds to connect, making his workshops resemble a meeting of cultures from around the world.
His interactions with people of various backgrounds have made him feel welcome in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Fugah’s previous performances in Southland have likely been seen by locals, and now he’s set to host drumming and dancing workshops on November 19 at ILT Stadium, which can be booked through Kadodo Music.
