Lucky Lartey from Ghana Road Show

Lucky Lartey is a Sydney-based dancer and choreographer at the forefront of exploring intercultural dance practices as part of the contemporary dance space in Australia.

Born in Ghana, West Africa Lucky’s dance and choreographic work draws on a rich history of traditional rhythm and dance whilst engaging with contemporary movement practices and contemporary art forms.

Lucky’s work traverse’s themes of social justice, identity, movement inspired by African architecture, the exotification of non-Western bodies and subjectivities and the relationship between hip hop culture and African oral traditions.

BEMAC: Hi Lucky. Ghana Road Show is coming to Queensland for the first time. Can you tell us what your creative journey has been in Australia and how it has lead to the development of the Ghana Road Show? 

Lucky Lartey: My creative journey in Australia has been an exciting exploration of blending traditional West African arts with contemporary Australian contexts. When I first arrived, I was driven by a passion to share the rich cultural heritage of Ghana, especially through dance, music, and storytelling. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with local artists, dancers, and musicians, which has significantly shaped my style and approach. This cross-cultural exchange has inspired me to create performances that resonate with a diverse audience.

The Ghana Road Show is a result of this journey. It fuses circus, theatre, and dance, bringing the vibrancy of West African traditions to life in a fresh, modern way. In working with performers from different disciplines, we’ve been able to craft something truly unique that honours the roots of Ghanaian culture while embracing contemporary influences. I’m thrilled to bring this show to Queensland for the first time and to share the energy and spirit of West African arts with a new audience.

BEMAC: The Ghana Road Show is a confluence of creative practices: circus and acrobatics, dance, live music and DJing. How did you come up with the combination of art forms involved?

Lucky Lartey: The combination of art forms in Ghana Road Show reflects the diverse and dynamic nature of West African cultural expression. As the choreographer, I drew inspiration from the idea of blending traditional and contemporary elements to showcase the richness of Ghanaian and broader West African arts. Circus and acrobatics are integral to many African traditions, where physicality, balance, and strength are celebrated through communal performances. 

Dance is deeply embedded in West African culture, acting as a means of storytelling and connection to heritage. By incorporating traditional dances into the show, the production honours these roots while creating an immersive experience.

Music, particularly the drum, is central to West African performances, often dictating the rhythm and energy of a performance. The fusion with DJ Lady Chika’s contemporary tunes creates a bridge between the old and the new, symbolising the evolution of African arts in a modern context. In essence, this creative fusion comes from the desire to celebrate West Africa’s rich traditions while showing their relevance in a contemporary, global setting. The result is a dynamic and multi-sensory experience that highlights the interconnectedness of these different forms of expression.

BEMAC: There seem to be very established preconceptions about what “African” culture is. Your show brings a fresh, contemporary look at that. How hard have you found shifting the audience’s perception to be?

Lucky Lartey: Shifting the audience’s perception of “African” culture can indeed be challenging, given that many people often hold a narrow or stereotypical view of what it entails. However, through the Ghana Road Show, we are able to present a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, which allows us to break down these preconceptions. Audiences may expect certain aspects like drumming and dance, but by incorporating circus, modern music, and innovative choreography, we show the depth and versatility of West African culture.

It takes time, but we’ve found that as people experience this multi-dimensional performance, they begin to understand the richness of African arts beyond the clichés. Seeing these diverse expressions together is not only eye-opening but also shifts the narrative of what “African” culture can be. It’s about expanding their cultural horizons and showcasing that Africa is as dynamic and contemporary as it is rooted in tradition.

BEMAC: Who NEEDS to see your show?

Anyone who loves immersive and vibrant performances should see the Ghana Road Show.

This show is perfect for:

• Culture enthusiasts who appreciate the depth and diversity of West African traditions.
• Lovers of performing arts—whether it’s circus, dance, or live music—looking for a fresh, multicultural experience.
• Families who want an unforgettable, dynamic, and engaging performance that appeals to all ages.
• Music lovers, especially fans of live drumming and contemporary fusion, thanks to DJ Lady Chika’s modern twist on traditional beats.
• Those interested in contemporary dance and choreography, seeking something unique and globally inspired.
• Adventurous art seekers craving a celebration of cultural diversity and high-energy entertainment.

It’s a show for anyone wanting to be transported into the heart of West African artistry and leave with a deeper appreciation of its vibrant spirit.

Ghana Road Show will perform at the Kingston Butter Factory  Saturday 14 September. Find out more and get tickets.