Nardos Wude Tesfaw is an Azmari singer who was sent to the capital Addis Ababa by her mother as a little girl to escape forced marriage. The sovereign woman earns her living both as a day laborer and a singer. Following the Azmari tradition, her songs arise in spontaneous interaction with the audience and address their concerns and problems, and are characterized by ambiguity and metaphors. In addition to everyday life in the capital, Specogna also accompanies her protagonist on trips to rural Ethiopia, where Tesfaw writes poems and songs together with other women. "With its feminist protagonist, energetic and melodic music, and shots of the rapidly changing capital, this film offers rich insights into an African society in transition." (Feature)
Documentary, Music, Dance, Theater
1h 49min
0 FSK
AM
DE
Heidi Specogna (Cahier africain) accompanies the Ethiopian singer Nardos Wude Tesfaw, who combines traditional singing and emancipation, over 5 years.
Nardos Wude Tesfaw is an Azmari singer who was sent to the capital Addis Ababa by her mother as a little girl to escape forced marriage.
The sovereign woman earns her living both as a day laborer and a singer. Following the Azmari tradition, her songs arise in spontaneous interaction with the audience and address their concerns and problems, and are characterized by ambiguity and metaphors.
In addition to everyday life in the capital, Specogna also accompanies her protagonist on trips to rural Ethiopia, where Tesfaw writes poems and songs together with other women.
"With its feminist protagonist, energetic and melodic music, and shots of the rapidly changing capital, this film offers rich insights into an African society in transition." (Feature)