Ethnomusicology and Ecology in Africa: OKA!

Friday, February 24, 2012, 7pm

Ethnomusicology and Ecology in Africa: OKA!

Credits

Director, Lavinia Currier (USA and Central African Republic, 106m, 2011)

Official Website

25 years ago, ethnomusicologist Louis Sarno traveled from New Jersey to the forests of Central Africa to record the music of the Bayaka Pygmies. OKA! tells the adventure of his life in Africa with his adopted family. The Bayaka maintain a tenuous balance between their traditional forest existence and their increasing dependence on the Bantu villagers. Through the eyes of Larry, the tall, ungainly white man from New Jersey, who accompanies the Bayaka on a journey into the heart of the forest, OKA! offers a unique glimpse into the music, humor, and spirit of the Bayaka people. Larry confronts the mysterious inner and outer forces of nature that ultimately define his soul and help him be healed and find a home.

The film will be introduced by Dr. Catherine J. Allen. Catherine Allen is a Professor of Anthropology at the The George Washington University in Washington, DC. Dr. Allen is a sociocultural anthropologist interested in expressive culture and performance.

News & Views

  • February 27, 2012

    The 2012 award recipients have been announced, click here to see the winners.

  • January 19, 2012

    The 2012 films have been announced, learn more.

  • March 1, 2011

    The 2011 award recipients have been announced, click here to see the winners.

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