WALA

BIO

When the power of percussion meets dazzling vocal harmony in the dance of life.

A dynamic fusion of drumming, dance, percussion and soaring vocal harmonies. Three passionate, exuberant and talented performers present audiences with an exciting display of Ghanaian culture.

Odai: To see Wala’s spirited lead-vocalist Odai perform is to witness a genuine love of expression through song. He has performed as vocalist, flute player and percussionist since the age of 8 and won the prestigious National Cultural Award in Ghana in 1984

Ago: is a vital and awe-inspiring master drummer from Nungua in Southern Ghana. He describes his music as ‘soul food’ and it is impossible not to be touched by his passion and impressive talent. To see him perform is to witness a display of invigorating power and vitality

Abli: has been playing music for 17 years, joining local Teshie group ‘Gye Nyame’ when he was still in primary school as an apprentice to the master drummer! He honed his talent before joining the ‘Wassa African Ensemble’ and touring with them to Côte d’Ivoire in West Africa, France, and Italy where they featured at festivals in Catania and Canicatti.

SHOWS

The Spirit of Ghana

  • Kinder
  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Festivals

With 15 hand-made African drums, flutes and stunning costumes, WALA engage their audiences in a call and response song, invite them to try out different instruments and to join in the dance.

Their enthusiasm is utterly contagious as they rejoice in the live sounds and rich heritage of their people.

WALA means “life” in their local language and the perfection of the name becomes clear as they explode into their breathtaking celebration of the Ghanaian Spirit.

“The best show Hampton has ever had! Amazing, awesome, great and unusual. Fantastic, fabulous, sensational, lots of fun. Outstanding!”
Hampton PS, VIC

The Spirit of Ghana (New Zealand)

  • Kinder
  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Festivals

The Spirit of Ghana (Kinders)

  • Kinder

African Groove - Drumming Workshops

  • Kinder
  • Primary
  • Secondary

Abli’s high octane African drumming workshops are a hands on, fun-filled interactive experience. He brings along enough instruments for up to 120 students at a time!

As the students walk in, they see the Djembes, Talking Drums and Kaplongos, Kiss Kass, Bells and Juju Shakers – all waiting for them on their seats.

Abli begins with a spectacular drumming display, followed by an introduction to the instruments. And then the fun begins! With instruments in hand, all students are empowered and experience the joy of making music, the excitement of African rhythms. Working together as a team, they gain a sense of mastery over their instruments.

Starting with basic techniques and simple beats, Abli gradually leads the students to more complex, layered rhythms and includes traditional African call and response songs. He coordinates the different sections of students playing different parts, to come together in a fun, harmonized unity, and ends the show with the audience up and moving to an African Groove.

VIDEOS