YAA ASANTEWA NZINGHA: DRINKING THE KOOL-AID OF DECEPTION

Yaa Asantewaa Nzingha is going to FESPACO. She is a theater artist and educator with over thirty years of experience. She is a performer, director and teacher who lectures, develops workshops, mentors youth, and teaches as a guest artist at multiple venues throughout the U.S. and abroad. Yaa Asantewaa Nzingha is widely known for using her teaching and theater experience to improve academic performance, self-esteem and consciousness in Urban youth. Currently, Ms. Nzingha is developing a new lecture/workshop focusing on the (mis)representation of Africa, Africans, and members of the African Diaspora in theater, film, and popular culture. Through this lecture/workshop, entitled "Drinking the Kool-Aid of Deception,” (DTKAOD) Ms. Nzingha examines the complex messages inherent in media representations while encouraging participants to create positive counter narratives. Ultimately, participants in this project will engage with performance techniques, character development, and the repercussions of representation. Your contributions will help cover travel, lodging, festival and administrative fees, and will support local guides and businessmen.