
The Abyssinians
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By:
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Banna Desta
About this listen
Royal intrigue takes center stage in The Abyssinians, a gripping new audio drama starring Danielle Deadwyler (Till, The Piano Lesson) delivering a masterful performance as a cunning queen navigating treacherous political waters and scheming sons.
In the wake of King Ezana’s death, his brash widow Queen Yodit (Deadwyler) must decide which of her twin sons will ascend to the throne. Clashing beliefs about religion, duty, and the rights of a ruler collide in this unforgettable story about a royal house at a crossroads in history.
Set in the ancient Aksumite Kingdom of modern-day Ethiopia and Eritrea, this fresh take on historical drama is enhanced by an original Ethio-Jazz score and powerful performances from a full cast of award-winning actors. Experience the vibrant and influential African kingdom like never before in this immersive and electrifying Audible Original.
Directed by Shariffa Ali with sound design by Alex Trajano. Original music by DA Mekonnen and Andrew Orkin, featuring Kibrom Birhane.
Playwright Banna Desta was awarded a commission through the Audible Emerging Playwrights Fund, an initiative dedicated to developing innovative original plays driven by language and voice. As an Audible-commissioned playwright, she received funding and creative support to develop The Abyssinians.
Available in Dolby Atmos on Audible.
©2024 Banna Desta (P)2024 AO Media LLC
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What listeners say about The Abyssinians
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- Kitrail Hargrove
- 12-07-24
Compelling Narration
I was sad when this book ended. I absolutely wanted more! The voice acting, sound effects, and music made for a very compelling read. Highly recommend!
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3 people found this helpful
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- MochaDiva
- 01-05-25
Generational Jealousy
WOW 🤩 ‼️”The Abyssinians” was an excellent production! It was reminiscent of Moses, Cain & Able & King David biblical experiences. Nevertheless, even in the midst of ancient Royal civilization, generational jealousy was pervasive & a consuming enemy of this human experiment.
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1 person found this helpful
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- Amazon Customer
- 02-16-25
Real feelings
This was refreshing and entertaining. Enjoyed the different voices, the characters and the story. It makes one reflect on their actions and the repercussions that may come.
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- Diann
- 11-30-24
The production was magnificent
This one of the best audible original that I have listen to. applause applause
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2 people found this helpful
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- LL556
- 12-05-24
Excellent Acting!
Excellent Acting and storytelling . It’s
So rare to find a potent mixture of talent! I was expecting more!
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2 people found this helpful
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- Stephen
- 12-27-24
Must listen to!
Excellent! So glad I came across it. The performances were great. I didn’t want it to end. This is a wonderful listening experience.
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- Carlo Manuel
- 01-04-25
Good Story Cut Short
The writing is smart and the characters are well-fleshed out. The story is engaging but unfortunately it is cut too short. The story seems to end in medias res, leaving the reader/listener, very unsatisfied and unfulfilled.
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- Jacqueline B. Irving
- 12-08-24
Captivating Story
Love this story. Hated the ending but loved the story. It felt like I was an observer in the rooms with the characters. Well written and narrated!
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2 people found this helpful
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- Bronwen Stair
- 12-09-24
pay attention
this has to be listened to when you can pay attention to what is being said. interesting story.
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1 person found this helpful
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- Anonymous User
- 01-03-25
Captivating Plot and Insightful Transitions/Sound
I loved this play! I found myself pausing here and there, gripping the edge of my seat in anticipation of what happens next. I appreciated the clear and thoughtful storyline and seamless integration of Ethiopian and Eritrean cultural artifacts and history.
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