The European Association of Folklore Festivals – EAFF has been established in year 2007 in the ancient capital of Bulgaria – Veliko Tarnovo. Its main purpose is to preserve, develop and make popular the folklore of the different European nations by organizing festivals and using the modern television, computer and other information technologies.
EAFF is umbrella structure of 368 festivals members. Every year more than 6 000 culture institutions and more than 180 000 participants are involved of EAFF events to preserve and present world culture.
The European Association of Folklore Festivals – EAFF achieves its activities mainly through the festivals of the Musical Feasts “Euro Folk” and through the worldwide Internet Television “Euro FolkTV”. The basic feature of the festivals from the Musical Feasts “Euro Folk” is the complete filming with professional TV equipment of all the performances together with making different audio and TV products. The main and biggest festival with 7 000 – 15 000 participants is organized every year from 1998 in headquarters town of EAFF – Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria – Stara planina Fest Balkan Folk.
Year of accreditation: 2016
Domain(s): (b) performing arts; (c) social practices, rituals and festive events.
Main Safeguarding measures: b) preservation, protection; c) promotion, enhancement; d) transmission, (non-) formal education.
Main countries where the NGO works: European countries, Indonesia, China, Korea.. – 38 countries
Local, national or international level of the NGO: international level
Lions of Africa is a music- and dance ensemble with some of the most talented and expertly trained Senegalese artists of present day. Many Senegalese artist around the world have their background from this highly unique ensemble. Whewell-known Senegalese artist Laye Ananas founded the ensemble back in 1999 and is still the director. Through decades he has taken the group to different continents and a huge variety of festivals and theaters. Through the magic of their captivating performances, they invite you to experience ancient African traditions, their magical folklore and vibrant culture. You and your audience will be transported by their unique blend of high energy dance, acrobatics and infectious rhythms.
The total number of the company numbers more than 30 artists, but when travelling it can vary from 6 to 28 people, depending on the need of the promoters. On stage you enjoy a variety of musicians, singers, dancers and acrobats in colorful traditional costumes and outfits that is all connected to the culture in Senegal. Traditional instruments like the Cora and balafon is also a part of the show together with the huge variety of drums in the country. Lions of Africa is considered to be one of the top ten ensemble son the African continent and has represented its country and region on many occasions; latest at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. But they have also visited India, Russia and several European and African countries. The company has also covered official events of the government of Senegal, welcoming state authorities from all over otherworld when visiting.
Many of the group members- like director Laye Ananas himself – come from Griot families. The Griots are the ones keeping the stories and history alive from generation to generation by oral traditions, singing, playing and performing. They are still the ones that are invited nonspecial events in all families like the blessing of newborn children, birthdays, weddings, graduations etc. Both to entertain the guests, but also to include the host and his family in the stories of their ancestors and generations before them. It’s an honor to be represented in this way. During slavery, the griot families were on the first line, singing, dancing and telling stories that motivated the ones who were afraid to join the resistance fight. Today the griots are still there to praise, motivate and uplift the people’s identity and pride, and in making the population proud and strong.
We are looking forward to seeing you in the future!