A bold and bright runway presentation, high-energy music and an eager crowd gathered at Graves 601 Hotel in Minneapolis on July 3 for the ExtraVaaKhanga Runway Show.
The event featured fashions from around the world and local label Bothdol, designed by Minneapolis resident Nyamal Dol. A khanga competition celebrated the many ways that the vibrant-colored, lightweight cloth can be worn. It's traditionally used as a skirt, shirt and headwrap by men and women in East Africa and the greater Central Africa region.
"We wanted to do something different and something with people from different walks of life," said Lynn Owino, co-founder/executive producer, who plans to make ExtraVaaKhanga (www.extravaakhanga.com) an annual affair. "It's about showcasing what Africans can do on the world stage."
Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177
Cirque comes to town Under a big top tent in St. Paul, Cirque du Soleil's Kooza opened its monthlong run with a bang. More specifically: a gaggle of clowns, a king, a trickster, a mischievous dog, a seemingly spineless contortionist and a sweet story.
The crowd, helped by sugary cupcakes and popcorn, ate it up. "I've seen almost every production. It's a really good theatrical experience," said KSTP (Channel 5) reporter Rusty Gatenby (pictured) on opening night. But fans needn't worry that the redhead might want to run off and join the circus. "I'm already a clown."
