A Kente Cloth of Stories and Songs
African Tales presented by The Garden State Storytellers League
And Jazz Standards Inspired by the Rhythms of Africa
Performed by Tom Chiola and George Sinkler
Old Ewe Cloth from the Collection of David Bosted
Friday, March 3, 2017
7 – 9:30 pm
$25 in advance, $30 at the door, if available
Everybody loves a good story, whether the story is told in music, in art, or in literature. Come to Ellarslie on Friday, March 3 from 7 to 9:30 pm for an evening of stories and song with vocalist Tom Chiola and George Sinkler on piano performing American Jazz standards inspired by the rhythms of Africa. Interwoven with the musical performance are tales from Africa, told by members of the Garden State Storytellers League. Refreshments and adult beverages are served.
Kente cloth is deeply intertwined with the history of the Ashanti nation which was located in what is today Ghana. The word “Kente” means basket in the Akan or Ashanti dialect referring to the way the different colors and patterns are woven into the cloth like the reeds in a basket.
Kente cloth designs vary, with the different designs, colors, and patterns each having their own special meanings and stories. But Kente cloth also reflects the history of the Ashanti people, from the emergence of the various Ashanti kingdoms to the development of the slave trade up to and including contemporary life in Ghana.
And so, like the cloth of the Ashanti people, the evening weaves together the stories of Africa with that most American of art forms – jazz.
Reservations are required and tickets may be purchased via PayPal below or in advance at Ellarslie. Tickets are $25 and, if available, $30 at the door. Seating is limited and this show is likely to sell out, so patrons are advised to purchase their tickets in advance.
Proceeds from the Cabaret support the exhibits and programs of the Trenton Museum Society.
Vocalist Tom Chiola
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