Felabration 2012 kicks off!

By Osagie Alonge

Since its debut in 1997, Felabration has become one of the most anticipated events in the country’s entertainment calendar. Conceptualised by Omoyeni Kuti, daughter of the late Afrobeat legend Fela, the week of celebration seeks to appreciate the works and struggles of the legend, Olufela Anikulapo Kuti. Over the years, local and foreign artistes and intellectuals have paid homage, performing at The New Afrika Shrine, venue for the celebration. Some of them include the late Lucky Dube, Carlos Moore, Hugh Masakela, and a host of others.

The 2012 edition of the annual celebration has since begun, and with a lot of excitement, especially as it will coincide with the opening of the Kalakuta museum, which has been undergoing refurbishment for the past three months. The refurbishment, NET learnt cost about N40 million and was sponsored by the Lagos State government.

Femi and Seun Kuti to perform.

Guests who attended last year’s edition were shocked to realize that Fela’s sons Femi and Seun Kuti were missing in action. The duo had performances outside the country and thus could not make it. However, one of the organisers, Tosin Akinbami exclusively confirmed to NET that the two will be available for this year’s edition and will be joined by other musicians including Asa, the Chocolate City crew, MAVINS and other notable acts.

International Acts on board

Following the success recorded in the previous editions, international acts have showed interest in attending this year, and although the organisers are yet to give a roll call of the expected performers, we can categorically tell you that Ghanaian BET awards winner, Sarkodie is on board, as is Donaeo.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Event: Senior Secondary Schools Debate. Topic: Social Media, Good or Evil.

Venue and Time: Freedomn Park, 10am

Monday, October 15, 2012

Event: Symposium-‘Fela Debates 4’

Venue and Time: Neca House Auditorium, Plot A2 Hakeem Balogun Street, Central Business District, Alausa Ikeja. 11am

Discussants – Sefi Atta, Ndidi Nwuneli, Supo Sasore, (S.A.N) And Prof. Michael Veal.

Tuesday, October 16 – Sunday, October 21, 2012

Venue & Time: New African Shrine, 1 Nerdc Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja. 8pm Daily

Event: Musical Concerts

Last Year, Guests From All Walks Of Life, Including Celebrities, Music Lovers And Fela Enthusiasts Attended Felabration, While Wizkid, D’prince, Essence, Jaywon, Dare Art Alade And Other Artistes Performed.