The festival is an annual free event that brings together progressive traditional and neo-traditional acts to showcase their abilities and encourage each other to achieve higher heights.  It is also a platform for the organisers to give something back to the community that raised them into formidable performers on the international scene.

 Acts billed for this year’s festival are Dela Botri, Adotey Tetor, Nyonmo Da, Full Energy, Efutupa Crew, Lipstick Queens, One Spirit Africa Band, African Dance Rhythms, Hejole Dance Ensemble, Nana Senti, Akwantufuo, Emmanuel Dance Ensemble and Universal Wonderful Academy.

 “The idea is also to help build a stronger sense of cultural identity into the young performers on the bill. It is important, as they expand their wings in the performing arts arena, to properly understand what it takes to be from a unique cultural background and how to take that to the rest of the world,” said the One Spirit Africa founder.

 One Spirit Africa has, over the last decade and half, exposed vibrant African culture to audiences across Australia, Europe and the Americas through performances and workshops.

 Fredrick Addo indicated that an educational component about mental health has been incorporated into this year’s festival. The organisers are collaborating with Ghana’s Mental Health Authority and MindFreedom Ghana and officials from those outfits would be available to speak at the festival.

Dela Botri is on the bill

His view is that sound mental health is important for all and he wants as many people as possible, including government officials, to show up and appreciate how we can all help each on that score.  

 “There are many young talented guys who could at least, express themselves through a creative outlet but are being held down by some bad habits. We want all such people to come to our event to enjoy the music and dances and also interact with the mental health experts. It could be a way of opening some useful doors for them.”

 Several players on the traditional music and dance front are young and seeking ways to enhance their lives through their artistic talents. The Mala Majo Music and Dance Festival has been drumming up the message that anything is possible through dedication and hard work and believes the upcoming edition would be another inspiring session for young artistes.