Felabrations 2015 - Backstage

backstage promotion

During Felabrations, a whole crew of artists are invited to perform on the New Afrika Shrine. They gather at the back of the building and enter through "l'entrée des artistes" (a bamboo gate with strong security) to avoid mixing with the public.

artists at l'entrée des artistes

Two tents were acting as lounges for artists to interact with journalists, furnished with carpets, sofas and fake crystal lamps, dim lights, so that trendy artists could spend a pleasant time waiting for their turn. Another tent was sponsored by Orijin a soft drink made with local plants, tasting a bit like campari; It was served as cocktail with palm wine.

cosily lounging

Another corner was well lit for interviews, and then at the back of the building a long tent with long tables where food could be served.
One passage is leading inside of the Shrine, along one side of the stage, while another one is leading to "les coulisses". Bright yellow walls lit by white neon light is greeting you when you enter, some mirrors for artist to have a last look before walking up on stage and a staircase leading to the private quarters of the Kuti family. On the ground floor were a few rooms for groups to get ready, one for girls to get their famous make-up done.

last warm-up before the show

The yellow corridors were decorated with pictures of Fela and Femi, some colorful paintings, testimonies of the past and the musical inheritance of the place. It was crowded by the artists and at one point of the evening with the brass brand rehearsing quietly. The stairs leading to the stage were jammed in anticipation of the green light to be allowed on stage.

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