FRITETE AFRICAN DRUM & DANCE ENSEMBLE is committed to preserving and promoting the rhythms and dances of antiquity stemming from the West African Traditions. The group performs rhythms, dances, songs and chants with a clear mission of representing most of the ethnic groupings in Ghana, in particular.

Fritete was founded in 1997 by Kwame Ansah-Brew, who also serves as the ensemble’s Artistic Director.  Their debut performance was at the 1997 Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Since then, they have participated in many festivals and campus events in the U.S., including the U.S. Virgin Islands 150th Anniversary of Emancipation Day, Kennedy Center, Baltimore Rhythm Festival, Virginia Tech, College of William and Mary, to mention but a few. Fritete recently had the privilege of representing the Royal Drummers of His Royal Highness King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, King of the Asante Kingdom, upon His visit to the U.S. in 2001.

The group members are: Roberta Aquaye, Kofi Dennis, Nana Yaw Asante, Joe Biney, Kaakyire Kwame Damptey, Osei Appiagyei, Vida Mawufemor and Paapa Kwesi Nyarko.

The ensemble is currently available to perform customized programs for Festivals, Concerts, Parties, Wedding Ceremonies and cultural events.  Please specify the date, venue, and the predominant age-group of the audience for which the group will be performing.