African rhythms at drama centre

It was more than a celebration of African drum-dancing and improvised theatre at the Malta Drama Centre over the past weekend.

Twelve refugee performers from the Congo provided two nights of extraordinary entertainment in front of two packed houses.

There were infectious vibes as the African ensemble, who had been rehearsing their intricate rhythms at the centre since late February, invited the public to take the stage and experience the release of feelings through dancing. The Malta Drama Centre organised the pilot project in association with the management of the Refugee Open Centre in Marsa.

"This is a perfect antidote to the racial fanaticism which has unfortunately gripped the island," said a spokesman for the centre.