Mali's Ancient Kingdom Is a Potent Source of Legend
by JENNIFER DUNNING for the New York Times

The first half of the nearly two-hour program told the story of Sundiata, the founder of the empire, who by his bravery and cheerful persistence overcame the handicaps of being not only the last of 12 royal sons, but also mute and unable to walk. The plot is told by an august patriarchal griot figure, one of several musicians playing beautiful traditional instruments like the djembe, kora and balafon as well as drums, flutes and horns. A taped voice supplied the details in English.

published: April 4, 2006