In a captivating audio drama titled "The Abyssinians," playwright Banna Desta recaptures the essence of the 5th Century Aksumite Empire, known for its wealth and significant role in global trade. The play follows Queen Yodit and her internal struggles as she navigates her royal responsibilities and social upheaval while grappling with the challenges of motherhood in a kingdom at a historic crossroads. Desta, deeply rooted in her Ethiopian heritage, aims to enlighten audiences about a flourishing pre-colonial Africa and challenge stereotypes surrounding female leaders. The production, enriched with a dynamic Ethio-jazz score, resonates with modern audiences while providing a nuanced portrayal of ancient complexities.
Bringing an Ancient African Queen and Her Story to Life
Bringing an Ancient African Queen and Her Story to Life
A fresh audio drama highlights the rich history of the Aksumite Empire through the tale of Queen Yodit and her twin sons.
In a journey through ancient narratives, the audio drama "The Abyssinians" revives the story of Queen Yodit, a figure both regal and tyrannical, exploring themes of power, identity, and humanity in tumultuous times. The play serves to entertain while simultaneously educating audiences about a period in African history often overlooked.
Set in the storied Kingdom of Aksum, renowned for its vast influence from the 1st Century BC to the 10th Century AD, "The Abyssinians" captures an important slice of African heritage. Playwright Banna Desta shed light on the struggles of Queen Yodit, who must choose between her twin sons, Kaleb and Negus, amidst political and economic turbulence. This poignant character draws inspiration from a historical queen often regarded as a controversial and complex figure.
Desta, whose roots trace back to Ethiopia and Eritrea, sought to showcase her heritage and offer audiences a glimpse of a time prior to colonialism when African civilizations thrived. "It's important that we understand Africa's history beyond the colonial narrative," she said. The audio drama juxtaposes historical facts with creative imagination, highlighted by a stellar cast that includes Bafta-nominated Danielle Deadwyler as Yodit, whose character's depth reveals her struggles with love and leadership.
Supporting characters like Makeda, portrayed by Arsema Thomas, further challenge stereotypes by showcasing a woman who aspires to rise above her circumstances. Both characters exemplify the multifaceted portrayal of women in leadership—a rare sight in historical narratives.
Accompanied by an original Ethio-jazz score by talented musicians, "The Abyssinians" invites listeners to immerse themselves in a vivid soundscape that enhances the storytelling. Producer Banna Desta remains hopeful that the project transitions onto stage productions in the near future, allowing audiences to experience the vibrant history of Aksum live.
The commitment to authenticity is reflected in the diverse cast, with actors of the black diaspora delivering powerful performances to breathe life into the ancient storyline. This ambitious project appeals to contemporary audiences, reminding us of the depth and resilience within historical narratives, urging us to reevaluate our understanding of African history and culture.
Set in the storied Kingdom of Aksum, renowned for its vast influence from the 1st Century BC to the 10th Century AD, "The Abyssinians" captures an important slice of African heritage. Playwright Banna Desta shed light on the struggles of Queen Yodit, who must choose between her twin sons, Kaleb and Negus, amidst political and economic turbulence. This poignant character draws inspiration from a historical queen often regarded as a controversial and complex figure.
Desta, whose roots trace back to Ethiopia and Eritrea, sought to showcase her heritage and offer audiences a glimpse of a time prior to colonialism when African civilizations thrived. "It's important that we understand Africa's history beyond the colonial narrative," she said. The audio drama juxtaposes historical facts with creative imagination, highlighted by a stellar cast that includes Bafta-nominated Danielle Deadwyler as Yodit, whose character's depth reveals her struggles with love and leadership.
Supporting characters like Makeda, portrayed by Arsema Thomas, further challenge stereotypes by showcasing a woman who aspires to rise above her circumstances. Both characters exemplify the multifaceted portrayal of women in leadership—a rare sight in historical narratives.
Accompanied by an original Ethio-jazz score by talented musicians, "The Abyssinians" invites listeners to immerse themselves in a vivid soundscape that enhances the storytelling. Producer Banna Desta remains hopeful that the project transitions onto stage productions in the near future, allowing audiences to experience the vibrant history of Aksum live.
The commitment to authenticity is reflected in the diverse cast, with actors of the black diaspora delivering powerful performances to breathe life into the ancient storyline. This ambitious project appeals to contemporary audiences, reminding us of the depth and resilience within historical narratives, urging us to reevaluate our understanding of African history and culture.
