Dec 08 2009
Fela’s Party On Broadway
Watching “Fela” and other dances sing and perform is like going to a party. The Eugene O’Neill Theater in Midtown Manhattan was transformed into Fela Kuti’s “Shrine” in Lagos, Nigeria, with the audience coming from everywhere to see the performance. The stage design was terrific and it contributed to the ability to allow audience participation to an extent. The entire audience participated—some danced, others attempted to dance, and some are just too embarrassed to dance but still moved along with the music.
After watching the real Fela Kuti perform in a documentary called “Music is the Weapon,” I was even more impressed by his musical talent and ideas of expression. He used music, his passion, as a way to speak out about the corrupted Nigerian government and inspire others to pursue his goals in bringing change to his homeland.
I didn’t expect a lot of what was present at the show. It was much more multi-media than I expected. I mean even before they put on the blacklight I realized they were willing to go far to make the show amazing.
i loved how the stage decorations (or should i say, theater decorations) were used to re-create the “Shrine” as it was back in Nigeria. That definitely added to the experience – we were informed of the authenticity of Fela’s residence and party-place.
As soon as i walked in the whole atmosphere changed, the music and bongos really set the mood. They did a great job of involving the audience and making sure everyone got into the performance. i agree teh set was nicely designed both for glamor and practicality.