13 episodes

A provocative and wholly unique hybrid of dance, theatre and music, FELA! explores the extravagant, decadent and rebellious world of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Directed and choreographed by Bill T. Jones. This collection features short documentaries from the production’s life at the National Theatre in 2010 as well as teaching resources.

FELA‪!‬ National Theatre

    • Arts

A provocative and wholly unique hybrid of dance, theatre and music, FELA! explores the extravagant, decadent and rebellious world of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Directed and choreographed by Bill T. Jones. This collection features short documentaries from the production’s life at the National Theatre in 2010 as well as teaching resources.

    • video
    FELA! video diaries - episode ten

    FELA! video diaries - episode ten

    In this scene of ‘orishas’ (the spirit of the ancestors) Fela calls to the Gods to speak to his mother. The use of UV light on stage creates a 3D effect, aimed at evoking a spiritual experience. The exceptional make- up and costumes of the cast look impressive under the light.

    • 2 min
    • video
    FELA! video diaries - episode nine

    FELA! video diaries - episode nine

    Paulette Ivory presents the set design model box for the FELA! production. The cast is ready to move to the Olivier stage from the rehearsal studio.

    • 1 min
    • video
    FELA! video diaries - episode eight

    FELA! video diaries - episode eight

    See the cast of FELA! sharing their excitement and thoughts about the first dress rehearsal. A short journey backstage depicts the dynamics and the energy of the cast before their first performance.

    • 1 min
    • video
    FELA! video diaries - episode seven

    FELA! video diaries - episode seven

    See backstage and dress rehearsal footage before a charity performance at the Royal Festival Hall.

    • 1 min
    • video
    FELA! video diaries - episode six

    FELA! video diaries - episode six

    Paulette Ivory introduces the performer Sahr Ngaujah who played the part of Fela Kuti in the original Broadway production and now joins the cast for the London show.

    • 1 min
    • video
    FELA! video diaries - episode five

    FELA! video diaries - episode five

    Paulette Ivory gives us a glimpse of the cast's first opportunity to rehearse on the Olivier stage. Paulette has a luminous costume fitting and a baby causes controversy!

    • 2 min

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