Madagascar

In small country villages in Madagascar, children go outside to play under the full moon. Night falls very early there. The sun sets about 5 or 6 pm year round. Children go out in their yards to invite their friends to come out and enjoy the full moon and play together.

It’s also a time for adults to get some fresh air and watch the children play, sing, dance, and run around. So this song is an invitation to play that’s very well known in Madagascar.

 

Click on the arrow to listen to the song. Right click on the MP3 file below and select "Save Target As" to download it.
 
Mifohaza Hilalao
 
Mandry ve ny amin’ny tanana ô
Misy efa matory e! e ! e!
Ia ô ô, ia ô mifohaza hilalao e e
Ia ô, mifohaza hilalao e e
 
Areheto ny jiro ô
hanazava ny tanana e e
Ia ô ô, ia ô mifohaza hilalao e e
Ia ô, mifohaza hilalao e e
Translation in English
 
Are there people sleeping in this village?
Yes, some people are alreadz in bed.
Get up and come play!
 

Light your lamps to light the village!
Get up and come play!