Anansi : Reunion is the captivating new work from Mercury/MOBO award-winning jazz saxophonist/composer Denys Baptiste, encapsulating the spirit of Africa, the Caribbean and the Americas. In a beautifully crafted suite of music, narrative and illustration, Denys collaborates with internationally acclaimed storyteller Jan Blake to create an inspirational performance piece to delight audiences.

This new suite is inspired by common recurring themes that populate childhood fables in different parts of the world which, in turn, have been inspired by the Anansi Tales of West Africa whose central characters – quick-witted tricksters, be they spider, rabbit or tortoise – provide an abiding metaphor for mans ability to survive in the most challenging of circumstances.

Anansi : Reunion extends the composer’s use of music and spoken word following his widely acclaimed 2003 suite, Let Freedom Ring! celebrating the work of Dr Martin Luther King. On this outing, he works with his new six-piece ensemble – including long-time friends and collaborators, Gary Crosby and Rod Youngs – interweaving a 21st century tale co-written with Jan Blake.

Each instrument represents a character whose personality springs to life through a dazzling mix of scored/improvised music, Jan’s inimitable storytelling gifts and a series of specially commissioned illustrations.

Anansi : Reunion promises a performance that will be enjoyed on many levels by both adults and young people alike.

Composed by Denys Baptiste Written by Denys Baptiste & Jan Blake

Denys Baptiste saxophones Omar Puente violin Femi Temowo guitar Gary Crosby double bass Phillip Harper percussion Rod Youngs drums Jan Blake storyteller

Produced by Dune Music. Part of Freedom and Culture