Madagascar event at Damanhur Crea

February 26, 2011

Damanhur Crea hosted an evening of full immersion in the sights, sounds, scents, tastes, movement and cuisine of Madagascar. Organized by Locusta Liquirizia, Enrico Formica and Maria Vassallo, the evening began with a presentation by three members of the  Madagascar Association's Board of Directors. After the presentation, a traditional Malagasy dinner, with meals served to over 180 people. About 20 people from the Association were present, as well as 30 other Malagasy and African people from various provinces of northern Italy.

The A. Olivetti conference hall was filled with color and sensory delights from Madagascar. The walls were lined with Enrico's photographs, stunning visual journeys into lush, savage landscape and everyday life on the African island, and videos of Madagascar were  also shown. Local handicrafts and products were on display, such as fabrics and Batik weaving, jewelry and bags, small bamboo musical instruments, cups and utensils made from zebù (umbi) horn, objects sculpted in rosewood, gems, shells and strong scents of vanilla, teas and spices. Traditional Malagasy clothing was exhibited on stage, as well as participatory dances, with people of all ages moving with energy and verve to African drumming and rhythms.