Our tour brochure promised a traditional Ashanti funeral, perhaps of a high-ranking person, and the promise was fulfilled in spades. To quote from the brochure:
"This afternoon, we hope to attend a traditional Ashanti funeral, a festive event held in a local stadium or perhaps in the courtyard of a school. Depending on who is being honored, there can be a thousand attendees, all wearing the beautiful black and red robes the Ashanti wear for funeral celebrations. We use the English word "funeral" for these events, but in Ashanti culture, funerals are important social celebrations, often held months or even a year after the person has passed away. It is an occasion for relatives, friends, and well-wishers to bring presents to the family and to socialize. Upon our arrival, we are introduced to the deceased’s family and we proceed through the receiving line, where we will be made to feel welcome by the family. An Ashanti chief is usually in attendance, surrounded by his court, under the shade cast by large, colorful Ashanti umbrellas. Drumming and dancing can last late into the evening, but we attend for just a few hours to enjoy this unforgettable cultural event."
In fact, the funeral - which started in a heavy but brief downpour - appeared to be of a female member of the royal family. There were three chiefs in attendance, wearing headgear and shielded by umbrellas (photos 1-4); the chief in photo 4 was greeting one of our group. The crowd looked prosperous and important (donations in the millions were announced), and the drumming and dancing lasted for at least the two hours we were at the ceremony. The last photo is a portrait of the boy dancer, whom we also saw at another ceremony the next day.
This was a remarkable opportunity for our group to witness, and to some extent participate in, a key event in Ashanti society.
