I’d like to introduce Spokane, WA’s newest performance group, the Bubusɔ (Boo-boo-Saw) West African Drum & Dance Troupe! This has been a dream of mine for many years, and I’m so happy to finally have it up and running. The word “Bubusɔ” means “Respectfully” in Ewe, the language of my primary teachers, Kobla Ladzekpo and Beatrice Lawluvi. It represents the way in which I hope to honor the traditions they taught me, and present to them the fruits of their labor and the ongoing commitment to keeping their traditions around for many more generations to experience. The Adinkra symbol above the name is called Dwennimmen. This symbol shows two rams’ horns butting up against each other, standing for strength and humility. “Strength” in the way we present the power of their culture, and “humility” in the way of humbling ourselves before the masters, striving to continue learning.

I’d like to thank Kobla Ladzekpo and Beatrice Lawuluvi, as well as my other teachers Yeko Ladzekpo-Cole, Andrew Grueschow, Sulley Imoro, Adom, Promise Dogbatsey, and EK, for their ongoing support. This wouldn’t be happening without their commitment to their traditions and their patience and desire to share it with the world.