The West Shore Symphony Orchestra (WSSO) is teaming up with the Sankofa African American Theatre Company for a rare performance of Fela Sowande’s “Nigerian Folk Symphony,” featuring dramatic readings that weave narrative through the music.
The concert, titled “Sweeping Symphony: Masterworks #3 – Continental Folk,” takes place Sunday, May 3, at 3 p.m. in the Trinity High School Auditorium. The program also showcases Mio Imai, the orchestra’s concerto competition winner.
Sowande, a pioneering Nigerian composer and organist, blended West African folk melodies with Western orchestral traditions. His “Nigerian Folk Symphony” is seldom performed outside of Africa, making this collaboration a distinctive cultural event.
“Listen fresh… listen local,” the orchestra said in its announcement.
The Sankofa company will provide dramatic readings that enhance the symphonic experience, connecting audiences to the stories behind the music.
Tickets are available at the door or through the WSSO website.
The performance promises to be a celebration of African heritage and community partnership on a Sunday afternoon in Central Pennsylvania.
