The Princess and The Trade- Film Premiere • Live Music • Storytelling

Join us for a unique evening celebrating the intersection of artificial intelligence, cultural heritage and West African storytelling.

The Princess and the Trader is a groundbreaking AI-generated storytelling film inspired by traditional oral narratives from Senegal and The Gambia. Developed through a Manchester based collaboration between storyteller and cultural ambassador Sens Sagna, creative director Dr Anita Greenhill and AI filmmaker Stephanie Ronan-Chlond, the project explores how emerging technologies can help preserve and reimagine cultural heritage for new audiences.

The evening begins with a live Bougarabou drumming and storytelling performance by Sens Sagna before the premiere screening of the film. Following the screening, audiences are invited to join a discussion with the creators exploring AI, creativity, storytelling and cultural preservation.

The event concludes with a special live concert featuring Sens Sagna and the Kajamor Family, joined by special guests Lamin Jassey and Derek from African Roots Band (from Leeds).

From oral tradition to digital futures, this is an evening of music, film, culture and conversation not to be missed.

Doors Open

Audience arrival and welcome.

Bougarabou Performance and Storytelling Introduction

An opening performance by Sens Sagna featuring traditional West African Bougarabou drumming and storytelling, introducing the cultural heritage and oral traditions that inspired The Princess and the Trader.

Premiere Screening

The Princess and the Trader

A new AI-generated storytelling film inspired by West African oral traditions and developed through a collaboration between Sens Sagna, Dr Anita Greenhill and Stephanie Ronan-Chlond.

Conversation with the Creators

Exploring:

• Artificial Intelligence and Creativity

• Cultural Heritage and Storytelling

• Digital Futures and Cultural Preservation

• Opportunities and Challenges of AI in Creative Practice

Audience Q&A

Live Performance

Sens Sagna and the Kajamor Family

Special Guests:

Lamin Jassey

Derek (African Roots Band) from Leeds.

A celebration of West African music, storytelling and cultural performance featuring traditional percussion, contemporary influences and audience participation.

Event Close