This Thursday, the Goethe-Institut Namibia’s online book discussion series, ‘Virtually Yours’, delves into the pages of ‘Whites Can Dance Too’.
The book is a captivating reflection by Angolan author Kalaf Epalanga on the vibrant music of his homeland.
Epalanga’s debut novel weaves together the narratives of three distinct voices, exploring themes of cultural heritage, freedom and love.
For Epalanga, kuduro, a unique Angolan music and dance genre, served as his gateway to the wider world.
“It took being caught at a border without proper documents for me to realise I’d always been a prisoner of sorts.
“Kuduro had been my passport to the world. Thanks to it I have travelled to places I’ve never dreamed of visiting. But the chickens have come home to roost,” Epalanga says.
Within the pages of his book, the author recounts a gripping tale of being detained at a border, just hours before a performance at one of Europe’s most iconic music festivals, all under suspicion of being an illegal immigrant.
In this virtual journey, his thoughts synchronise with the rhythm of electrifying kuduro, infused with techno beats, as he goes on an incredible journey from Luanda to Kristiansund, Beirut to Rio de Janeiro, and Paris to Lisbon.
Epalanga is not only a gifted writer, but also a talented musician.
Currently residing in Berlin as a musician, he is renowned for co-founding the record label Enchufada.
This week’s discussion will take place on zoom at 18h00.
Participants can register on the Goethe-Institut’s website. – unWrap.online
Leave a Reply