Prime
Tanzanian Gorilla impersonator: From classroom antics to the global stage
What you need to know:
Known as 'Hassan Gorilla,' Hassan Michael's journey from mimicking his teacher's gorilla-like walk to performing on international stages is a testament to single-focus dedication no matter the cause
Dar es Salaam. Hassan Michael, a Tanzanian artist defying conventions, has carved a unique niche for himself through his extraordinary talent for gorilla impersonation.
Known as 'Hassan Gorilla,' his journey from mimicking his teacher's gorilla-like walk to performing on international stages is a testament to the power of dedication and creativity.
Hassan's fascination with animal behaviour began in his formative years.
Inspired by his teacher's playful antics and later fueled by countless hours of observing animal documentaries, he developed an uncanny ability to mimic the movements and mannerisms of gorillas.
What started as a childhood hobby has evolved into a full-fledged performance art that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Before perfecting his gorilla act, Hassan experimented with other animal impersonations, including a monkey and a fly.
Beyond his gorilla persona, Hassan possesses a versatile skill set that includes yoga and the art of balancing on a stick.
These skills, honed under the guidance of Tanzanian, Chinese, and Cambodian teachers, have become integral to his repertoire.
These talents, honed through years of practice and mentorship, have contributed to his multifaceted artistic identity.
Hassan's dedication to his craft has paid off handsomely.
He has performed in prestigious venues across the globe, from the vibrant cities of Italy and Turkey to the exotic landscapes of Australia and Bahrain.
However, his journey has not been without its challenges.
Physical injuries are an occupational hazard for performers of his calibre, and the constant barrage of online criticism can be emotionally taxing. To those who criticise his art form as disrespectful to the African continent, Hassan politely tries to educate them.
"I typically explain to them that this is simply a form of performing art," he says.
Despite the hurdles, Hassan remains steadfast in his pursuit of artistic excellence.
Drawing inspiration from the success of fellow Tanzanian talents like the Ramadhan Brothers, who achieved global fame on America's Got Talent, he aspires to follow in their footsteps.
As Hassan continues to climb the ladder of international recognition, he calls upon his fellow Tanzanians to support his endeavours.
He believes that with the right support, he can become a global ambassador for Tanzania's rich artistic heritage.
Hassan’s story is a powerful reminder that talent knows no bounds.
His ability to transform himself into a gorilla and captivate audiences around the world is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for creativity and innovation.
