Kampala, 01st May, 2017-The East African performing arts market, Doadoa, will be coming back for the sixth edition on May 3.
Over the years, the four-day event has helped performing artistes connect, market themselves as well as introducing the audience to newer acts. According to Bayimba Foundation, the organizers, this year won’t be any different, although the focus will be on distribution of music, especially the digital way.
Speaking to The Observer, Bayimba director Faisal Kiwewa said artistes no longer make much money from selling CDs and concerts as the world goes digital.
Thus, during the traditional conference talks, one of the biggest issues tackled will be about distribution of music with panelists, including Martin Nielsen, the Mdundo Music CEO.
Other discussions will focus on how to become an independent artiste in East Africa. It will feature panelists like Uganda’s Francis Manana of Milege World Music festival, Karengera Eric Soul from Rwanda, Charles Ademson alias Makadem from Kenya and Espen Sorensen from Tanzania.
Joe Tabula and Joseph Batte will join Dembe FM’s Talk ‘n’ Talk team to discuss the cross-border appeal for Ugandan music. The conferences that will be taking place at the Uganda museum are expected to have about 45 speakers addressing artistes on various relevant topics.
Over the years, people have always associated Doadoa with music; thus, leaving the other performing arts in the cold. However, Kiwewa emphasizes it’s a market for performers, and that’s why they will be having workshops outside the music box.
This year, the showcases have shifted from National theatre to Diners Lounge in Bukoto. Kiwewa says they hope the ambiance at Diners will change the experience.
There will be performers for the first time from South Sudan and Burundi. The majority will be from Uganda.
Cindy Sanyu will be joined by Ann Nassanga alias Afrie, Haka Mukiga, Suzan Kerunen, Lilly Kadima, Charmant Mushaga and Giovanni Kiyingi, among others.
Others will be Kenyan vocalist Nina Ogot, an Afro-acoustic pianist and guitarist, who incorporates her cultural background and knowledge into music.
Credit: Andrew Kaggwa (The Observer Uganda)
