Adepa Slama hold their own at choral festival

Guests at choral events usually have an idea of what to expect, but attendees at the Centre for National Culture in Accra, on March 3, 2023, for the Pappoe Thompson Choral Festival, heard something more than just  the harmonious blend of different vocals.

They also heard  traditional drums booming away in accompaniment to energetic dances from the Adepa Slama Dance Ensemble. The Nungua-based group was on the bill to perform during intervals at the annual choral programme. They, however, ended up winning over new fans for their well-executed drumming and dancing pieces. 

The Pappoe Thompson Choral Festival was first held in 1988. It is one of the flagship programmes of the Centre for National Culture in Accra for its national significance as the late Pappoe Thompson, known to many for his catchy choral compositions, also wrote the lyrics of the national anthem. 

From the moment of arrivals for the nine competing choirs and guests, to the two periods of interlude, where they performed, the Adepa Slama Dance Ensemble knew they were on board for something of national importance. They, therefore, needed to give of their best for everyone present and they did exactly that. 
Maxwell Afotey, the group’s founder, said they don’t underestimate any assignment, as they are often not aware of  who would be there to see them. To him, every assignment is a new challenge to impress event organisers and audiences.  

“We were there to showcase our capabilities as a traditional drumming and dancing outfit. Our task was to be a bridge between the back-to-back choral renditions. We offered something absorbing for everyone. We are happy those present appreciated what we did,” Maxwell Afotey said. 

The Adepa Slama Dance Ensemble has performed at a variety of events across Ghana and are looking forward to taking their highly entertaining presentations beyond our shores.