KENTE FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK GOES POP
It was a colorful affair at the Tropical Reflections Hall in Brooklyn, New York last Saturday June 8 as Ghanaians and other patrons from all walks of life converged to celebrate the unique Kente heritage. The occasion was the much awaited Kente and Lace Dance organized by ARC promotions and Cultural Ambassadors.
The show which is designed as a cultural event saw people of all age and social groups converging at the venue dressed in resplendent colors to enjoy a night of music, dance, comedy, food and good company. Most of the patrons were dressed in different styles and designs of Kente cloth; ranging from Kente bow ties and mufflers to full suits made from the rich fabric. Others were dressed in lace attires.
The night started with patrons arriving in trickles amidst contemporary Ghanaian music. Later on in the night the mood picked up after an opening prayer by Elder Daniel Anokye, presiding Elder of the Apostolic Church; Brooklyn Assembly, after which patrons took to the floor to dance the night away while others treated themselves to some good food and drinks at the bar.
Delivering the keynote address Rev. Sam Akufo, District A Pastor of the Apostolic Church Int. stressed the importance of preserving and endorsing our cultural heritage of which the Kente fabric is an integral part. He praised the organizers for the foresight in organizing such an event outside Ghana.
The highpoint of the event came when ace Ghanaian actress Akua Ataa, better known as Kyeiwaa took to the stage to tell a few jokes. She had the audience roaring with laughter in a matter of seconds. Kyeiwaa took the opportunity to tell the audience about her new movie “Women in Black”.
Special guests for the august occasion included Mr. Harry Reynolds, Director in charge of Information, Ghana Consulate to the United Nations, Mr. Daniel Clottey, Consul, Ghana Consulate, New York, Nana Yaa Asantewaa II, Ejisuhemaa, Nana Akyaa I, Dwatuahemaa of Ejisu and Nana Asakomaa I, Nkosuohemaa of Ejisu.
The CEO of ARC Promotions, the promotions wing of the ARC Foundation, Kwabena Jerry said the event forms part of the ARC Foundation’s quest to help rebrand Ghana and to promote Ghanaian culture in the diaspora. He said plans are far afoot to remake the next edition of the event which will be held in the Bronx, New York. He said the event has been rechristened ‘Kentefest’ and will be traveling to other parts of the world after the Bronx leg.
