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DVD
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MODE 220DVD
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"Njinga The Queen King is a collaborative effort between writer/director Ione and composer Pauline Oliveros, which they refer to as 'a play with music and pageantry.' It is based on historical facts. This fully staged 'pageantry' with a large cast weaves the plot around singing, acting, music -- including ethnic music and percussion, electronic and dance. Njinga ruled 17th century Ndongo -- now Angola -- as a 'king' because tribal custom forbade her to rule as a woman. A skilled diplomat and fierce warrior, Njinga kept the Portuguese at bay from Ndongo for the 40 years of her rule. Flowing freely between time periods, Njinga traces the diaspora of Njinga's people to Brazil and the United States, linking the ancient warrior's life to that of a contemporary African-American woman who has lost touch with her heritage. Oliveros' score, and the use of electronics and spatialization, provides an environment for the traditional African music, heightening the drama. This recording is based on the BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music) Next Wave Festival performances of 1993. In addition to Olveros' music and sound design, Njinga incorporates traditional Kongolese music arranged by Titos Sompas, and Brazilian music arranged by Nego Gato." Region 0, NTSC format; Run time: approx. 3 hours, 10 minutes; aspect ratio: 4:3 and 16:9; color; Dolby 5.1 surround.
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