Ghana pavilion at Winnipeg's Folklorama hit by theft of cultural costumes

A vehicle belonging to the Ghana pavilion at Winnipeg's Folklorama festival was broken into late Wednesday, resulting in the theft of dozens of cultural outfits. The stolen items include 25 Ghana Black Stars soccer jerseys, 75 sets of traditional dance attire for children, teenagers and youth, and additional garments for the Makola Market dance. The loss threatens the preparation of about 40 young dancers who have been rehearsing for the festival, which runs from Aug. 2‑8.

Pavilion co‑ordinator Abigail Larson announced that the show will go on and called for community help. Volunteers are seeking donations of West African print fabric, seamstresses or tailors to recreate the costumes, as well as any recovered jerseys or cash to purchase replacements. The Winnipeg Police Service’s property‑crime unit is investigating the theft and has asked anyone with information to come forward. Despite the setback, the Ghana pavilion remains determined to open on schedule and share Ghana’s music, dance and traditions with festival attendees.