Experience Cultural Richness at the 15th Hullegeb Israeli-Ethiopian Arts Festival

The 15th annual Hullegeb Israeli-Ethiopian Arts Festival will open on December 21, featuring a diverse array of performances including Ethiopian jazz, hip-hop, and theater. Highlights include artists like Abatte Barihun, Hanny Mesele, and Getachew Hunegnaw. The festival aims to celebrate Ethiopian-Israeli culture while bridging linguistic gaps and emphasizing the significance of heritage through art.

The 15th edition of the vibrant Hullegeb Israeli-Ethiopian Arts Festival begins on Saturday, December 21, immersing audiences in a rich tapestry of Ethiopian-Israeli culture. Kicking off with the enchanting sounds of saxophonist Abatte Barihun and violinist Elad Levi, this four-day celebration intertwines North African melodies with Ethiopian jazz.

On December 23, the spotlight shines on Hanny Mesele and YoniVerse, delivering a compelling hip-hop performance that accentuates themes of black pride. Their verses, such as “haters will stand in line to the tanning salon to get this color,” echo powerful sentiments that celebrate their heritage.

The festival also features the play “Come to Buna,” where Getachew Hunegnaw portrays the beloved character Aba Gabar Hana. This character, deeply cherished in Ethiopian folklore, connects people through the rich tradition of coffee gatherings, as Hunegnaw explains how it serves as a moment for storytelling and connection.

In a unique collaboration, Tehila Yeshayahu-Adega will bridge language barriers by translating Hunegnaw’s performance from Amharic to Hebrew, enriching the experience for all attendees. The festival honors the profound Jewish heritage of Ethiopia, spotlighting figures like Queen Gudit and educator Yona Bogale, who devoted his life to connecting Ethiopian Jews with their homeland.

On December 24, fans of Ethiopian music can look forward to Hava Hewan Meshesha, who will return to the stage with her contemporary sounds, revitalizing classics like “Aynoche Terabu” for a modern audience.

With tickets ranging from NIS 40 to 80, audiences can partake in this rich cultural exploration at venues like the Yellow Submarine and Confederation House. Produced by Confederation House under the artistic direction of Effi Benaya, the festival promises an exhilarating experience for both the heart and spirit. For ticket bookings, interested guests can reach out by phone or visit the festival’s official website for more details.

The Hullegeb Israeli-Ethiopian Arts Festival serves as a cultural bridge, showcasing the artistic talents of the Ethiopian-Israeli community through music, theater, and discussion. This annual event highlights the vibrancy of Ethiopian culture while fostering connections among various linguistic and cultural backgrounds. By bringing together renowned artists and unique performances, the festival aims to educate and entertain, ensuring that the diverse heritage of Ethiopian Jews is celebrated and preserved.

In summary, the 15th Hullegeb Israeli-Ethiopian Arts Festival is a captivating celebration of culture through an array of performances, from jazz to hip-hop and theatrical storytelling. It highlights the importance of heritage and the role of art in bridging cultures. With engaging performances and a commitment to cultural awareness, the festival is set to be a landmark event this December.

Original Source: www.jpost.com