WALA Is Life
- Performance Space
- Group, Indoor venues, Outdoor spaces, Roving, Acoustic, Powered
WALA IS LIFE (Ghana, West Africa) ensemble, based in Melbourne, touring Australia nationally and internationally for 25 years.
Bringing to the stage powerful dynamic performances of 10 drums played with hands, feet and sticks, souring vocal harmonies, shakers, flutes, and high energy dancing. Fusing traditional Ghanaian music with their original arrangements.
WALA's music, songs, and dances are a homage to their ancestors depicting the life and history of their culture.
The music repertoire combines traditional polyrhythmic rhythms, folk Palm Wine and Highlife songs that forms the root source of contemporary Blues and Jazz of the West.
Setup
WALA Is Life ensemble consists of 5 to 7 members, depending on the nature of the event, and their performances incorporate audience interaction of call and response songs, drum jams and facilitated dance for all to enjoy. In between songs are narrated stories to explain the instruments, instruments and dances performed.
The band´s uniqueness stems from the assortment of instruments that are rarely seen or played outside of Ghana (West Africa), which include: 10 drums (Fontonfron set, Atumpan set, Gome, Kpanlogo, Dundun, Djembes); Agidigbo - Thumb Piano Box; Flute; Shakers; Bells; Guitar.
The band performs at theatres, indoor/outdoor festivals, bars, birthday parties, openings and corporate events. WALA also perform in roving acts, and offer drum, dance and children´s workshops.
For more intimate acoustic style events, our Trio act provides performances that cover a repertoire of folk Palm Wine songs and stripped back Highlife rhythms. Ideal for smaller size bar venues, restaurants, and corporate events.
Contact
Dominique Rada