FAMBUL Brings African Storytelling to Broadway with “STORIE STORIE” Experience [Report]

Reported by SwanoDown

New York, NY— Saturday, April 25, 2026

On Saturday morning, April 25, 2026, the ancient tradition of African storytelling will take center stage in the heart of Times Square as The Theatre Center hosts a vibrant cultural gathering that brings the spirit of Africa’s oral heritage to Broadway in a contemporary, immersive showcase.

The event, presented by FAMBUL, blends storytelling, music, and performance to create a communal experience rooted in reflection, cultural pride, and intergenerational connection. Founded in 2021, FAMBUL is a Sierra Leonean rooted cultural platform dedicated to building spaces where the global Sierra Leonean community can connect, collaborate, and celebrate heritage through the arts. The organization was founded by Abubakr Dumbuya, a finance professional born in Sierra Leone and currently residing in New York. FAMBUL’s mission centers on building community, supporting dreams, and amplifying Sierra Leonean culture both on the continent and throughout the diaspora.

Headlining the morning is Alim Kamara, an internationally respected storyteller, author, and cultural educator from Sierra Leone. Known for his dynamic and engaging performances, Kamara seamlessly blends traditional folklore with history, humor, and practical life lessons. His storytelling style is deeply interactive, inviting audiences to participate while exploring themes of morality, resilience, self knowledge, and shared humanity. Kamara’s work preserves centuries old oral traditions while making them relevant and accessible to modern audiences of all ages.

Adding rhythmic power and visual energy to the program is Ballet Fe Sa, a high energy African percussive ensemble celebrated for its electrifying performances. The group fuses traditional West African drumming and movement with contemporary influences drawn from Guinea, Mali, Ivory Coast, and Burkina Faso. Through thunderous percussion, expressive choreography, and call and response patterns, Ballet Fe Sa transforms rhythm into storytelling, creating an atmosphere that is both exhilarating and deeply communal.

The event also features Namina Forna, the New York Times bestselling Sierra Leonean American author of The Gilded Ones, The Merciless Ones, and The Eternal Ones. Forna is widely recognized for centering African mythology, power, and identity in her work, particularly through stories that explore courage, destiny, and self discovery. Her presence brings a literary dimension to the program, bridging ancient storytelling traditions with contemporary narratives that resonate strongly with younger generations.

Joining her is Marion Grey, a Sierra Leonean, New York City based actress, writer, and performer known for her poetic voice and commanding stage presence. Grey’s performances are intimate and emotionally resonant, weaving personal narrative with cultural memory. Her work often explores identity, belonging, and ancestral connection, adding depth and nuance to the collective storytelling experience.

This year’s theme, “Know Yourself. Claim Your Power.”, anchors the entire program. Through story, rhythm, and spoken word, performers guide audiences on a journey of reflection focused on identity, heritage, and inner strength, encouraging each person to recognize the power that already exists within them.

Designed as a family friendly, intergenerational gathering, the event welcomes children, parents, and grandparents alike. While food is not included in the ticket price, refreshments will be available for purchase, catered by 2BigYai. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as the program will begin promptly at 10:00 AM.

More than a performance, the morning promises to be a celebration of culture, memory, and community, where African storytelling comes alive in a shared space that is vibrant, affirming, and unforgettable.