by contributor Megan Podeszwa
Benda Bilili! is an uplifting story about a group of Congolese street musicians, many who are stricken with polio. The National Geographic Society hosted a private screening on Wednesday night.
The documentary starts out by introducing the group, Staff Benda Bilili, and their founders who they refer to as “Papa Ricky” and “Coco.” A majority of the members are stricken with polio and are equipped with customized tricycles. During the film, they are introduced to Roger, a teenaged boy who is also a street musician, playing a one stringed instrument made from a tin can. Adding this boy to the group gives their music a unique sound.
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