The Anglo-Ethiopian Society
Music - Azmari Bet
Ethiopian Wetatoch Association
Saturday 25th May 2019
18:30 - late at Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, London, E1 6LA.
Tickets £12.50 (earlybird), £15.50 + booking fee
An evening of comedy, drama and live traditional Ethiopian music.
The Ethiopian Wetatoch Association invite you to join them for a night of amazing music, poetry and theatre, as they recreate the experience of an Azmari Bet, a traditional club that you can find hidden away in the back streets of Addis Ababa, where musicians entertain and amuse, and customers come just to drink, eat, dance, chill and get away from the hustle and bustle of life!
At the heart of the Azmari Bet is the Azmari Minstrel. Whether playing the one-stringed masinko, the 5-stringed krar, singing songs – often made up on the spot to praise or make fun of customers – dancing, or reciting poetry, these are consummate performers who have learnt what it is to entertain. Their livelihood depends on it: the more they make people laugh and have fun, the more money they will earn!
Azmari Bet at Rich Mix will feature a multitude of artists: the mighty Krar Collective power trio with amazing Ethiopian dance, azmari songs and fun by Baby Masinko, one of the best performers from Addis Ababa, singer Meron, and DJ Sami playing the latest Ethiopian dance hits until late.
In addition there will be some stand-up comedy (in English), poetry and a theatrical recital about the Emperor Tewodros in the delightful musical tones of Amharic language (with English surtitles). Ethiopian food and beverages including Tej honey wine will be served.
Come and be hosted, entertained and fed by London’s energetic Ethiopian community!
Doors open from 6.30pm with entertainment starting from 7pm. And stay and dance with DJ Sami until the early hours.
Tickets can be purchased via the Rich Mix website.