The State Theatre

In his most ambitious project to date, the documentary Thrown Down Your Heart, renowned musician Bela Fleck explored the origins of the banjo and discovered in his travels in Africa that, while the banjo is traditionally considered an American instrument, its origins lie far from her shores. Now, in The Africa Project, Fleck brings to the stage his collaborations with some of the Africa’s most talented musicians, featuring Toumani Diabate (Mali), D’Gary (Madagascar), Vusi Mahlasela (South Africa) & Anania Ngoliga (Tanzania). Mali's Toumani Diabate is considered by many to be the greatest kora player in the world. His many solo albums and collaborations have placed him on top tier of instrumental artists worldwide. His amazing new recording 'The Mande Variations' has been recognized with a Grammy nomination this year. Ernest Randrianasolo, better known as D'Gary, has developed an incredible acoustic guitar style based on adapting the traditional music of his home country Madagascar. He is a fingerstyle guitar hero, who came to widespread attention when he was recorded by David Lindley. His warm vocals and fluid guitar will be accompanied by his fantastic percussionist Xavier-Martial Francois. From South Africa, guitarist Vusi Mahlasela is simply known as 'the voice'. And what an awesome and expressive voice he has! His music connects South Africa's Apartheid-scarred past with its promise for a better future. Anania Ngoglia is a blind thumb piano player and vocalist from Tanzania. When Bela first heard him play, he recognized a kindred spirit. When they played together in Tanzania, Anania proved himself to be an astonishing improvising artist with astonishing range. This guy has got to be heard to believed! He will be accompanied by guitarist John Kitime.

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