Agbedidi Africa

Agbedidi was founded in the fall of 1995 during UF’s inaugural African Artist-in-Residence project with Ewe master musician, Godwin Agbeli. “Agbedidi” translates from the Ewe language as “long life” — abge meaning “life” and didi meaning “long.” In adopting this title, the ensemble at once honors Mr. Abgeli (whose name means “there is life”) and salutes the promise of a long and prosperous life for African music and dance in the New World.

Though Mr. Agbeli passed away in the spring of 1998, his dedication to living African traditions continues to inspire Agbedidi to unite local and global communities through education, outreach, and performance with numerous events throughout the year. Though Agbedidi is comprised primarily of theatre, dance, and music students who rehearse each week, membership is open to all who are interested.

Agbedidi Student Information

Using the dynamic processes of practice and performance, students deepen their understanding of issues of cultural diversity and, through outreach, share their growth with the greater community. Ensemble members work directly with master musicians and dancers on a weekly basis, thus it is necessary for students to attend class regularly and be available for a number of performances throughout each semester.

Dance majors or minors are free to register for the dance section of Agbedidi (DAA 2381) through the School of Theatre and Dance. Those not enrolled as dance students are encouraged to audition. Musicians can register for the music section of Agbedidi (MUN 2491) by permission of the instructor through the School of Music. Though previous musical experience is helpful, it is not necessary. Agbedidi regularly collaborates with visiting artists and gives performances throughout the immediate community, the state of Florida, and beyond. Such a schedule requires considerable time in rehearsal and often necessitates travel to venues off campus. Those wishing to participate should consider these constraints when making a dedication to the ensemble.

Agbedidi Outreach

Agbedidi Africa provides priceless hands-on experience for UF students, yet the ensemble is not isolated within the university. Agbedidi regularly attends community-based festivals and special events and perhaps most importantly provides programs for local public schools in an effort to reach out to young people who otherwise may never encounter other musics and cultures. Thanks in part to the CWA and its partners, Agbedidi Africa also works in conjunction with Artists-in-Residence to bring masters of the performing arts into local classrooms, confirming the CWA commitment to education and linking of local and global communities.