What is BaoBao Festival? The BaoBao Festival offers African music, drum and dance workshops; vibrant performances by professional artists from West Africa; storytelling; marketplace; and samplings of delicious African food.
The Festival was started by Adjei Abankwah who was a principal dancer and choreographer with The National Ghana Dance Ensemble for 11 years. In addition to dancing, he is an accomplished musician, composer, and choreographer. Adjei plays a number of traditional African instruments including flute, xylophone, bass marimba, and drums
Where can you join in the fun? BaoBao performances have occurred all along the Front Range in Colorado, from Boulder to Colorado Springs and into mountain towns such as, Carbondale, Steamboat Springs and surroundings. Our shows span from intimate audiences at individual schools and libraries to large-audience performances.
A Little Background: In Ghana, people have gathered under the Baobab Tree to sing, dance, drum, and tell stories for as long as anyone can remember. This multi-generational experience has been a cornerstone of Ghanaian community. The baobab tree, from which the festival derives its name, serves as a symbol of unity among many African communities. It is where the community gathers to celebrate life and its many opportunities. At such gatherings, music, dance, storytelling and enactment form an integral part.
What can I expect? The BaoBao Festival offers primarily evening performances spotted with morning and afternoon workshops and performances.
The artists encourage and thrive on audience participation from both the local and wider community during performance week.
Community members of all ages and backgrounds, are invited to take part in a series of events and performances filled with spirit and dedication.