The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #110280   Message #2318812
Posted By: Ruth Archer
17-Apr-08 - 07:49 PM
Thread Name: Folklore: Sami singing style of Norway
Subject: RE: Folklore: Sami singing style of Norway
They build The Icehotel every year in Swedish Lappland. I don't know whether they still also build the Ice Arena nearby, which featured performances by the local Sami people. The effects were created with stunning lighting and really good sound, and the performances were quite stirring and otherworldly - and performed entirely in the Sami language. I saw a performance of Macbeth, which featured Sami singing. Unlike any of the links here, some of the men were quite drone-like, reminding me of Tuvan throat singing, while other bits (by the women) were like banshees. Of course, I don't know how authentic it was as it was produced for tourists, but it was one of the more amazing experiences of my life.