The Tayese Academy of Arts and Culture, London CIC, has partnered with Nigeria’s Alariya Cultural Group to promote Yoruba culture in the United Kingdom, through series of high street cultural performances.
Babatunde Bamgbode, President, Alariya Cultural Group, in a statement on Thursday, said that the initiative would be launched early 2025.
Bamgbode who is an actor, said this would showcase traditional Yoruba music, dance, and story telling.
He said the initiative would expose diverse audiences to authentic experience of one of Africa’s most vibrant cultural heritages.
According to him, the partnership would see talented members of the two groups bring high energy cultural dance performances to several high streets across the UK.
He said the initiative was part of Tayese Academy’s ongoing mission to promote Yoruba arts and culture in multicultural communities to foster greater appreciation and understanding of Yoruba traditions among individuals from various backgrounds.
“The collaboration is a significant step toward fostering and advancing the Yoruba race and culture.
“Together, we aim to showcase the richness of Yoruba traditions on a global platform, creating a deeper connection with diverse audiences.
“This partnership will not only preserve our cultural heritage, but also strengthen the identity of the Yoruba people by sharing our vibrant history and art with the world.
“At the heart of these performances will be Mr Sunday Fadahunsi and Mr Raheem Awesu, the joint leaders of the Alariya cultural group.
“Both are celebrated cultural ambassadors and will play active roles as lead performers, excelling as cultural chanters and singers.
“Their leadership will ensure that the essence of Yoruba heritageis authentically represented, enriching the performances with cultural depth and artistic excellence,” he said.
Also, Larry Sharafa, Founder of Tayese Academy said :”Through this partnership, we hope to bring the rich and colourful traditions of the Yoruba people to life on the streets of London.
“We want to celebrate diversity while educating the public about the beauty and significance of Yoruba culture.
“The high street cultural performances will not only serve as an engaging spectacle but also as an educational platform showcasing Yoruba heritage in a way that connects people from different cultures.
“These performances will take place in prominent locations across London, providing both residents and visitors the opportunity to witness the rhythmic power of Yoruba drumming, dance and traditional songs in an urban setting.”