Day of Ancestors: Festival of Masks
Time & Location
About the Event
On Sunday, June 30, 2019, LA Commons and KAOS Network will produce the 9th annual Day of the Ancestors: Festival of Masks. Initiated by the son of an Urhobo tribal chief, Najite Agindotan, the event is steeped in the West African tradition of Egungun or masked performance and implemented in collaboration with local master artists including “tall mas” performer Kehinde Otis Johnson, outstanding master percussionist Rene Fisher-Mimms, locally lauded choreographer Nzingha Camara, and legendary filmmaker Ben Caldwell of Kaos Network.
The festival features a libation ceremony, procession, and a lineup of dance and musical performances. Our blessing and libation ceremony are designed to invoke a healing and reflection process in the community. The procession through the streets symbolizes the people's power and capacity to take ownership of our community, address challenges, and create change. A lineup of spirited performances offers Angelenos an opportunity to enjoy and appreciate the diversity of artistic and cultural expressions observed throughout the African Diaspora.