Description
Join us for what is sure to be an amazing evening of West African music! Experience masterful Djembe drumming, the Kora (African Harp), the Balafon (African Xylaphone), song and African culture.
Featuring renowned griot Mohamed Bangoura “Bangourake” and talented African musicians at The Place in Charlestown supported by our own local group “Djembe Alchemy Drumming Ensemble”. This is a unique opportunity not to be missed!
When: Friday 25 September 2026
7:00pm doors open
7:30pm show starts
Where: The Place (Corner Frederick and Pearson Streets, Charlestown NSW 2290)
Parking: Free in Charlestown Shopping Centre
The Program
Starting with Djembe Alchemy Drumming Ensemble – a group of passionate djembe players from Lake Macquarie region. They will warm up the crowd with groovy West African rhythms, before handing over to “Bangourake and Friends” (Bangourake, Malin Sylla – a Kora master, Thierno – Percussionist and dancer), whowill bring a feast of West African music via Djembe, Kora, Balafon, singing and dance.
It’s not often that we are blessed with the opportunity to experience this level of insight into African culture with a master such as Bangourake & Friends.
Places are strictly limited due to space, so please book in quickly.
Workshops
Bangourake will be here for African drumming and dance workshops the following day (Saturday 26 September). So check those out also.
Further detail
Djembe is a hand drum which originated from West Africa, it means “everyone gather together in peace” and ” the symbol of joy”, it is one of the most popular percussion instruments in the whole world at the moment and the drum masters like Bangourake himself is one of the top quality artist who can bring it to life.
Kora is a soulful and graceful West African instrument with 21 strings, somewhat akin to a harp. It’s played in a tuneful rhythmic manner with smooth rhythmic patterns, exciting flourishes and most often accompanied by traditional African song.
Balafon is a traditional West African musical instrument, essentially a wooden xylophone with gourd resonators. Originating in the 12th-13th century within the Mali Empire, it features 17–21 tuned wooden keys played with mallets, typically at celebrations, festivals, and weddings.
Mohamed Bangoura (Bangourake) was born into a griot family, the traditional keepers of African culture, stories, music and song, and it’s been his life’s pursuit to share his culture and knowledge with the world. You will surely be enchanted by his skill and prowess as he demonstrates traditional West African rhythms and sings in his mother tongue, Susu.
Please read the terms and conditions regarding booking, cancellations and refunds before booking.