Playwright Banna Desta seeks to illuminate the regal complexities and historical richness of Aksum, intertwining the life of its tyrannical queen with the broader challenges of her empire.
Reviving the Legacy of Ethiopia's Aksumite Empire: A New Audio Drama
Reviving the Legacy of Ethiopia's Aksumite Empire: A New Audio Drama
An exploration of a lesser-known ancient African civilization unfolds in an innovative audio drama, "The Abyssinians."
In her latest work, Banna Desta addresses history in a refreshing light by bringing the Aksumite Empire to modern audiences through her new audio drama, "The Abyssinians," released on Audible. Taking place in the 5th Century, this audio play delves into the reign of Queen Yodit, portrayed by Danielle Deadwyler, who is portrayed not just as a monarch but as a multifaceted character grappling with her destiny and family loyalty amidst social upheaval.
Desta's ambition goes beyond mere entertainment; she aims to enrich people's understanding of Africa's contributions to global history, particularly when the continent was undisturbed by colonial influences. She emphasizes the importance of Aksum, an influential kingdom known for its introduction of Christianity to Africa and its strategic trade networks connecting India to the Mediterranean during its heyday.
In this tragicomedy, Yodit faces the daunting task of selecting an heir between her twin sons, Kaleb and Negus, against the backdrop of severe economic challenges and religious conflicts. Deadwyler describes Yodit as "complex, raw, and sensual," offering a portrait of a woman who wields power yet grapples with her personal isolation.
Echoing this multifaceted narrative, another character, Makeda, played by Arsema Thomas, breaks conventional portrayals of women in historical narratives. Procured as a servant to pay her family's debts, Makeda demonstrates ambition and intelligence that extend beyond societal confines of the time.
The dialogue in "The Abyssinians" is peppered with modern wit, allowing the ancient story to resonate in contemporary discussions. An original Ethio-jazz score by DA Mekonnen and Kibrom Birhane further enhances the experience, weaving together elements of Ethiopia’s rich musical heritage with contemporary sounds.
Significantly, the cast features talents from the black diaspora, with André De Shields fittingly embodying Frumentius, the bishop who introduces Christianity to Aksum. Desta's vision is not just historical but also deeply personal, stemming from her heritage linked to the very region that was once at the heart of Aksum.
As she aims to bring "The Abyssinians" to the stage in the future, Desta’s work serves as a reminder of the vibrant history that has often gone unnoticed in mainstream narratives—an ode to the power of storytelling in exploring and reclaiming cultural legacies.
Desta's ambition goes beyond mere entertainment; she aims to enrich people's understanding of Africa's contributions to global history, particularly when the continent was undisturbed by colonial influences. She emphasizes the importance of Aksum, an influential kingdom known for its introduction of Christianity to Africa and its strategic trade networks connecting India to the Mediterranean during its heyday.
In this tragicomedy, Yodit faces the daunting task of selecting an heir between her twin sons, Kaleb and Negus, against the backdrop of severe economic challenges and religious conflicts. Deadwyler describes Yodit as "complex, raw, and sensual," offering a portrait of a woman who wields power yet grapples with her personal isolation.
Echoing this multifaceted narrative, another character, Makeda, played by Arsema Thomas, breaks conventional portrayals of women in historical narratives. Procured as a servant to pay her family's debts, Makeda demonstrates ambition and intelligence that extend beyond societal confines of the time.
The dialogue in "The Abyssinians" is peppered with modern wit, allowing the ancient story to resonate in contemporary discussions. An original Ethio-jazz score by DA Mekonnen and Kibrom Birhane further enhances the experience, weaving together elements of Ethiopia’s rich musical heritage with contemporary sounds.
Significantly, the cast features talents from the black diaspora, with André De Shields fittingly embodying Frumentius, the bishop who introduces Christianity to Aksum. Desta's vision is not just historical but also deeply personal, stemming from her heritage linked to the very region that was once at the heart of Aksum.
As she aims to bring "The Abyssinians" to the stage in the future, Desta’s work serves as a reminder of the vibrant history that has often gone unnoticed in mainstream narratives—an ode to the power of storytelling in exploring and reclaiming cultural legacies.
