HELSINKI AFRICAN DANCE FESTIVAL
AMBONY AMBANY . YLÖSALAISIN . UPSIDEDOWN . UPP OCH NER
A vibrant dance festival celebrating the rich diversity and multifaceted nature of African dance. The festival highlights the social, cultural, and traditional aspects of African dance, as well as its historical significance and artistic values.
African dance in contemporary global culture represents a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, rooted in diverse cultural expressions across the continent. These dances, characterized by intricate rhythms and expressive movements, are powerful forms of storytelling, spiritual rituals, and social cohesion. While deeply tied to specific ethnic and regional contexts, African dance has profoundly influenced global dance forms like jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary dance, integrating elements such as polyrhythms and syncopation.
Today, African dance continues to evolve, with artists fusing traditional elements with modern techniques to address current social issues while preserving cultural heritage. Its global recognition in performance arenas, festivals, and educational institutions underscores its role as a tool for cultural exchange and cross-cultural understanding. African dance remains a vibrant expression of resilience, creativity, and a deep connection to its roots, reflecting its enduring significance in the global cultural landscape.
Purpose and platform:
The festival provides a dynamic platform for African-born artists, both from the continent and the diaspora, to showcase their work in a global platform for a global audience.
AMBONY AMBANY:
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Provides a vibrant cultural experience that fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation by showcasing the rich traditions, stories, and rhythms of Africa. This festival is essentially an experience that will deepen knowledge of African heritage and its influence on global dance forms.
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Showcases and builds on the energetic and communal nature of African dance which promotes inclusivity and unity, encouraging participation and interaction among people.
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Offers physical and mental health benefits through lively performances and activities that inspire audiences.
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Supports the global recognition of African artists and adding dynamic, meaningful, and transformative experiences for a global audience.
in 2024:
The festival took place here in Helsinki, Finland on13&14.05.2024 and 16.06.2024
The AMBONY AMBANY festival experienced high-level performances and workshops by our international guest artists and local dance groups.
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Cie Zora Snake (Cameroun) presented his world touring piece “L’opera du villageois”,
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Oulouy (Ivory Coast) performed his new dance piece titled “Piano” an exploration of the famous amapiano dance style as a body expression.
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Willy Noir (Netherland-Brazil ) roots of Afro-house, and dance originated from South Africa and Angola and has spread to the rest of the world.
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Nancy Nko (Cameroun), performed and hosted workshops
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Njara Rasolomanana (Madagascar) performed and hosted workshops
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Local groups: Vakana Afro contemporary group, Ndc Afro contemporary group, Diafro Afro dance group and VaiaV Afro dance group.