BOSTON, Feb. 18, 2012 – Last night AIC brought a taste of Senegal to Newbury Street. “Mystical Senegal,” the latest in our monthly Intercultural Mixer series, drew more than 70 students, professors, artists and professionals to sample the sounds and cuisine of this vibrant West African country.
Boston University African Studies expert Alex Zito and his wife – herself newly-arrived from Senegal – catered authentic Senegalese fare, including fataya, or spicy salmon empanadas, that proved irresistible to even the most skeptical guests. After an hour of food and mingling, Alex gave a brief introduction to Senegalese culture and urged us to recognize Senegal’s own push for peace, change and reform alongside many other countries in the Middle East and Africa.
Later in the evening, renowned Senegalese drummer and dancer Lamine Toure took the stage and undoubtedly stole the show. With a beat of his drum and stomp of his foot, Lamine sent a rhythm rippling through the AIC Center that in no time had the whole crowd on its feet and chanting along in Senegalese Wolof.
The next Intercultural Mixer at the AIC Center takes place Friday, March 30. “Nowruz Without Borders” will honor Nowruz, a spring festival commonly associated with Persian tradition and celebrated in countries across the Muslim world, including Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Turkey and Azerbaijan. The event will feature diverse food, music and people to share their Nowruz traditions and celebrate the start of spring. We hope to see you there!
