Aaninka: rhythmic vision of Africa

By Lee Hyo-won

A powerful percussion beat sets the stage for a maddening display of hip-gyration ― making the body part look like it’s a separate organism altogether ― crowned by far-projecting vocals and the occasional howl.

It’s none other than Aaninka, a popular dance and music performance troupe from Cote d’Ivoire. The group has been taking the country by storm ― battling against top K-pop group dancers on the talent show ``Star King’’ and mixing ``Arirang’’ spirit into their repertoire.

Their pulsating performance invites onlookers to let loose and feel the rhythm, and moreover, acts as a window into the culture of Cote d’Ivoire.

``The image of Africa is often negative ― political conflicts, refugees, AIDS. But there is also joy and life,’’ Sea Made Yul, founder-director of Aaninka, told The Korea Times in a recent interview at the troupe’s residential theater in Gyeonggi Province.

``That’s why we’re called Aaninka ― it means `new vision.’ We want to give people a new vision of Africa,’’ said Yul.

The troupe stages long-handed down traditional dance sequences and songs that accompany every aspect of life: from birthdays and funerals, coming-of-age ceremonies and weddings, to hunting, curing diseases and warding off evil spirits.

Since launching in 2001, Aaninka has toured many countries and decided to take residency in Korea five years ago.

``We performed in many countries, mostly in Europe, and wanted to do something in Asia. We really liked Korea because it’s an emerging country that truly fascinates us. Korea inspires us that we can also emerge from war and poverty and become economically well off. Korea sets a great example for us.

``Koreans really appreciate our show. Everyone always claps along and becomes very excited. We think it’s a great place to share our new vision,’’ he said.

Aaninka performs three times everyday ―11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. ― except on Mondays. The troupe’s residential theater is located within the Africa Art Museum in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province. Visit www.africaculturalcenter.com or call (031) 543-3600 for more information.