Pictures: Credit Paul Sogbe
On a radiant Friday evening in Dallas, the spirit of Eweland surged through the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center as over 400 guests gathered for CEANA’s signature celebration: Durbar Night. What began in Colorado as a cultural showcase has evolved into a cornerstone of diaspora identity,a night where tradition, artistry, and reverence converge.
The evening commenced with a stately procession of chiefs and queens, ushered in by the poised and vibrant youth of the Ewe Association of Dallas Kids – Flowers. Their performance, rooted in ancestral rhythm and youthful pride, set the tone for a night of cultural affirmation. As the dignitaries took their seats in state, the hall transformed into a ceremonial court reminiscent of Ghana’s royal durbars, where lineage and leadership are honored in full regalia.
Video – Credit :Chatting with Nicole
The sacred pouring of libation by Torgbuiga Foli Ameyno III invoked ancestral blessings, grounding the gathering in spiritual continuity. This was followed by a formal exchange of greetings between CEANA executives, elders, and the Chiefs and Queens,an act steeped in protocol and mutual respect.
In a moment rich with gratitude and reverence, CEANA President Dr. Tsatsu Nyamadi honored the Chiefs and Queens for their unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting Ghanaian culture across the diaspora. He hailed the overwhelming turnout as a testament to the Cultural Night’s transformation into the convention’s crown jewel,a radiant celebration of heritage, unity, and pride.
Mr. Winfred Gbedemah, President of the Ewe Association of Dallas, delivered a welcome address that underscored the evening’s purpose: to preserve and perform the cultural legacy of the Ewe people.
The performances that followed were a masterclass in cultural expression. The Ewe Association of Dallas Kids – Flowers, returned to the stage with a spirited dance that celebrated youth engagement and cultural transmission. Agboti Yawo Mawunam, the guest artist, captivated the audience with his powerful vocals and stage presence. The Afrikania Cultural Troupe delivered electrifying renditions of Adzogbo and Gota, blending sacred choreography with theatrical precision.
Community drumming and dance,Kinka, Agbadza, and Borborbor,brought the audience to its feet, reminding all that rhythm is the language of unity. Professor Torgbuiga Foli Ameyno III offered a stirring Atopani appellation, weaving royal titles into a tapestry of oral tradition. The Ewe Association of Dallas showcased Gahu, a dance of joy and celebration, while the Houston Cultural Troupe added their own percussive brilliance to the evening’s crescendo.
The night concluded with music and dancing led by DJ All the Way, transforming the convention hall into a vibrant floor of shared heritage and exuberance.
The chiefs and queens in procession were:
- Mama Bubune I – Toronto
- Mama Sedudzi – MC
- Mama Semekor-Chicago
- Torgbui Adzah – Quebec
- Togbe Agbelorm Agbotokor II – Chief of Salo and CEANA’s Representative in the Eweland
- Mama Lorlornyo Seshie – UVA
- Mama Mawutor Akabua – UVA
- Mamaga Muna Esedinawo – Dallas
- Mama Vedjuesu Dzahono IV
- Torgbui Setranah – UVA
- Mama Mawuenyegah – UVA
- Torgbui Kwaku Yador I – Atito
- Mama Abeko IV – Queen Mother of Dafor-Awudome Traditional Area
- Torgbuiga Foli Ameyno III – Dufia of Tsiyinu/Afife, Traditional Council & Ewe Association of Dallas, Texas
Durbar Night was more than a performance ,it was a proclamation. It declared that the Ewe identity, though dispersed across continents, remains rooted in dignity, rhythm, and remembrance. In a world where cultural erosion looms, CEANA’s celebration stood firm: the crown still shines, the drums still speak, and the people still rise.
Source: Sankofaonline & Mama Sedudzi ( CEANA PRO)
In fact, it was great experienced in Dallas last weekend. Displayed of culture of the Ewe land. Congratulations to Ceana