The “Star of Unity” Concert: A Celebration of Somali Heritage

The “Star of Unity” concert, a heartfelt initiative organized by the Somali Museum of Minnesota, serves as a vibrant tribute to the diverse tapestry of music and dance that has woven itself through generations and regions of Somalia. This event is not merely a concert; it’s a familial gathering that fosters bonds, nourishes understanding, and rejuvenates cultural pride.

On October 22, 2023, the Ames Center in Burnsville will be alive with the sounds of generations as the Somali Museum of Minnesota celebrates its 10th anniversary. Among the headlining acts, the internationally renowned Suldaan Seeraar stands out. Known for his electrifying performances, he has garnered acclaim for breathing new life into Somali music and resonating deeply with audiences across national borders. His performance promises not just music, but an experience steeped in nostalgia and unity.

This year holds special significance for Minnesota’s Somali community, coinciding with the celebration of Independence Week. The event will unfold at the acclaimed Ordway Center for Performing Arts, where artists from various walks of life will converge, creating an intergenerational dialogue through music and dance. Abdiwahab Cantar Naji, a beloved figure from the 1980s, will grace the stage alongside the Somali Museum Dance Troupe. Co-host Khalid Dahir, affectionately known as “Khale Male,” will encapsulate the evening with a mix of contemporary and traditional Somali music.

The concert’s title, “Star of Unity,” draws inspiration from the distinct white star on the Somali flag. This emblematic star, with its five points, tells a poignant story—representing the five colonial territories that once held Somalis under their sway: Italian North Western State of Somalia, French North Western State of Somalia, British North Western State of Somalia, Eastern Ethiopia, and the Northern Frontier District of Kenya. In the words of Mohamoud Osman Mohamed, the Artistic Director of the Somali Museum, “This event is an ambitious leap in our programming. It embodies the theme of unity—uniting Somalis across different regions and ages.”

Today, many in the Somali diaspora sense a disconnect between youth and their elders. Hence, the museum aims to bridge this generational gap through an inclusive and family-friendly cultural extravaganza. “We want to create a space where everyone from young children to seasoned elders can enjoy and share a great Somali cultural experience,” says Mohamoud.

Suldaan’s journey in music is inspiring in itself. Having made history as the first Somali contemporary artist to perform at the Target Center in 2022, his infectious melodies and captivating rhythms have not only resonated within the diaspora but also across the Horn of Africa. He reflects, “Performing live with a full band is something I’ve looked forward to, reminiscent of the golden era of Somali music in the late 1970s and 1980s. It’s an experience I cannot wait to share with my audience in North America.” His backing band will feature none other than Harbi Kahiye, the only professional Somali drummer in North America, further enriching the performance.

Another highlight of the concert will be Abdiwahab Cantar Naji, whose musical journey began in the 1990s. He has established a long-standing partnership with the Somali Museum, captivating audiences with his powerful performances. As he recalls his musical beginnings, there is a sense of nostalgia woven into his narrative. “I grew up surrounded by the magic of live performances, and I aim to share that same energy and passion with today’s generation,” he expresses earnestly.

Alongside these esteemed artists will be the Somali Museum Dance Troupe, known for their mesmerizing displays of Somali folk dances like the saylici, a dance from the Awdal region, and the vibrant dhaanto from Eastern Ethiopia. Each performance is a celebration of pride and artistry, transcending regional divides. As Mohamoud points out, “We are embracing the full spectrum of Somali culture, showcasing dances from various regions to emphasize our unity.”

Dancer Hodan Hassan, a member of the troupe, finds her participation deeply rewarding. “When I joined the Somali Museum Dance Troupe three years ago, it was a way for me to reconnect with my roots,” she shares. “In a place where displacement often prevails, I found solace in dance—a way to touch a part of my culture beyond just language.” Hodan’s passion radiates as she describes her interactions with young dancers, who look up to her as a mentor, mimicking her TikTok routines in delightful homage.

As the evening approaches, Suldaan expresses his pride in the younger generation as well, stating, “I admire the Somali Museum Dance Troupe for passing down our cultural traditions through dance. Seeing young people embrace their heritage and showcase it to the world is truly heartening.”

With an atmosphere brimming with excitement and anticipation, attendees can expect an unforgettable show that promises to weave together strands of history, culture, and artistry. As the performers gather on stage, ready to unveil a spectacle that is as rich in tradition as it is in innovation, one can’t help but wonder: How will this revival of Somali culture impact future generations?

As Suldaan puts it, “This will be a performance unlike anything people have seen before.” And indeed, through a shared appreciation for music, dance, and unity, the “Star of Unity” concert aims to illuminate the essence of Somali culture for all to experience.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring.