Join us for amazing music, poetry and theatre, as we 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 fiddle, the 5-stringed krar lyre, 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 the latest Ethiopian dance hits by DJ Sami – 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 subtitles. 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 7 pm. And stay and dance with DJ Sami until the early hours.
