Finding Fela is a must for music fans and political junkies alike. Using the 2009 production of the Broadway musical Fela! as its starting point, the film chronicles the life and times of Fela Kuti, the Nigerian musician and human rights activist, “the first counter-culture figure in sub-Saharan Africa.” In the 1970’s, Fela emerged as a revolutionary voice who wasn’t afraid to battle his country’s ruthless and corrupt military regime. Fela’s weapon was a new type of music, jazz and soul combined with the highlife form native to Ghana and Nigeria. The film follows the musical’s producers as they research Fela’s background, creative process, and beliefs for their show. Finding Fela is a fascinating portrait of a completely unique genius.

Finding Fela tells the story of Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s life, his music, and his social and political importance. He created a new musical movement, Afrobeat, using that forum to express his revolutionary political opinions against the dictatorial Nigerian government of the 1970s and 1980s. His influence helped bring a change towards democracy in Nigeria and promoted Pan Africanist politics to the world. The power and potency of Fela’s message is completely current today and is expressed in the political movements of oppressed people, embracing Fela’s music and message in their struggle for freedom.

Finding Fela
Documentary, music – NR – 119 min – Tickets $8 – Get tickets online
Fri, Oct. 10: 9:15 p.m.
Sat, Oct. 11: 8:00
Sun, Oct. 12: 5:00
Mon, Oct. 13: 8:00
Tues, Oct. 14: 8:00
Wed, Oct. 15: 8:00
Thurs, Oct. 16: 8:00

Fela live in Calabar, Nigeria in 1971

Check out some ’60s/’70s highlife