Voodoo Blues Fest '09

If you're looking for something fun to do this upcoming Saturday, December 5th, 2009, check out the Voodoo Blues Fest '09! Billed as an Open Jam and a fundraiser for The Yoruba House Project, the event promises to be a fantastic night out for anyone who loves music and dancing!

AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa

The Voodoo Blues Fest (click here for Facebook Event Page) will be taking place at The Black Swan Tavern (154 Danforth Ave) starting at 7:00 p.m. sharp. The event will be a celebration of traditional and modern African and African-Diaspora music, dance and spirituality.

The organizer, Paul Harris, intends for the event to be a celebration of the global appeal and accessibility of Voodoo as a spiritual path. He describes Voodoo as being just one of many spiritual expressions under the vast pagan umbrella.

The evening will begin with a blessing by Prince Bamidele, who was born into the Royal House of Rebuja Ruling Dynasty in Igbotako, Osooro, Ondo State, Nigeria, Prince Bamidele now makes his home in Toronto, where he gives workshops and classes on drumming, Ifa divination, and other Voodoo and Yoruba related subjects. He is dedicated to the preservation of Yoruba Heritage in Canada.

Consuelo Herrara, who teaches Afri-Cuban dance and dance for the Orishas, will be on hand throughout the evening, as will many drummers, musicians and pagan celebrants from the Greater Toronto Area.

You are encouraged to come out with the musical instrument of your choice in hand. As an open jam, crowd participation is not only encouraged but necessary to the success of the evening!

There is a $5.00 cover at the door.