Please note: This performance will take place on the Presser Foundation Stage in the TD Pavilion as part of our new series, Downstage @ the Mann, where both audience and artist are on stage together in an up-close, under cover, and open-air setting. This will be a general admission, standing room only event.

The legendary Femi Kuti and his troupe, The Positive Force, bring a very special performance featuring Mádé Kuti to Downstage @ the Mann this summer! Join us as they bring the spirit of Africa to our stage on Saturday, July 16. Philadelphia's Oluwafemi will DJ the evening, including a post-show, on-stage dance party filled with funk, Afrobeat, old school soul, early hip hop, and more!

Before Femi was his own bandleader, he started playing saxophone in his father — Fela Kuti's — band, Egypt 80, in 1979, where he learned the ins and outs of performing with a legend. “My father was so huge,” Femi says with a laugh. “I taught myself everything I knew, so I was learning on the job, and you are not allowed to make mistakes. Being in front of such an icon, it can be intimidating.” In 1984, Femi had no choice but to fulfill his destiny after Fela was arrested at the Lagos airport just before the start of a U.S. tour and Femi was asked to be the frontman of his father’s band instead of cancelling the shows. From that day on, he’s never looked back. In 1986, Femi formed his own band, The Positive Force, which quickly gained notoriety as a formidable group in Afrobeat music. His self-titled first record was released in 1995 by Tabu/Motown, and has since followed a long journey, where he continues to expand the diversity of his artistry on most of his albums, bringing him a total of six GRAMMY® nominations.

This event is currently sold out.

Downstage @ the Mann is made possible by The Presser Foundation.
 

Digital Program

We're going paperless! For a copy of the season's touchless and environmentally-friendly program, text PROGRAM to (215) 544-2803. Instructions here.

Bag Policy

The Mann's bag policy is for the safety of our patrons, to minimize our staff having to touch patron personal belongings during the required search of all bags before entering the venue. Bags must be an individual CLEAR plastic, vinyl, or PVC tote bag no larger than 12"x6"x12" with a single compartment and/or a small NON-CLEAR clutch bag (4.5"x6.5"). Backpacks are not allowed. Patrons who arrive with a bag other than what is permitted may purchase a clear plastic tote for $10 at the gates.

Safety Precautions

As of July 14—For this event, there is no vaccination or testing policy for patrons to enter.

In the best interest of fans and staff, we will continue to monitor local COVID-19 trends and meet or exceed protocols mandated by local governments. By purchasing tickets to this event, unless prohibited by law, you agree to abide by the health and safety measures in effect at the time of the event, which may include, but not be limited to, wearing masks, providing proof of vaccination status and/or providing proof of negative COVID-19 test. Check back often for updates to this event page as guidelines are subject to change.

The Mann is proud to be a part of the World Travel & Tourism Council's Safe Travels Program and the PHL Health Pledge. These seals signal our commitment to safely welcoming patrons back to the venue.