Sunday 22nd July 2007
Coventry Arts Mela brought a real taste of South Asia to Coventry with a whole day of performances, workshops and exhibitions at Coventry's Belgrade Theatre on Saturday 28 January 2006.
An audience of more than 600 people packed into the Belgrade's auditorium as they experienced a range of vibrant performances that featured rhythmic Bhangra music, dramatic story telling, Bollywood and traditional dancing. Throughout the theatre a range of demonstrations and exhibitions showcased different aspects of the rich and colourful culture of South Asia.
Throughout the day a variety of workshops offered people of all ages the opportunity to try out Dhol Drumming, Bollywood dancing and take part in craft sessions led by skilled artists.
Barinder Johal, Press Officer from Coventry Arts Mela was delighted with the event, saying, "The day was a really great success. We were all so pleased with the number of local people that came to watch and who joined in so enthusiastically with all the activities. It is very important to preserve our heritage and that is why we want to share our culture. It was a great day for everyone to enjoy, get together and have fun and learn about the different art forms this Mela showcased."
The Mela came about as a result of a unique partnership between the voluntary Coventry Arts Mela organisation, the council's Arts Development Service and the Belgrade Theatre.
Councillor Gary Ridley, Cabinet Member for Adult Education, Libraries, Sport and Leisure and an enthusiastic supporter of Coventry Arts Mela, commented, "This group are providing a fantastic springboard to celebrate South Asian arts and culture in this city. We really value their contribution to Coventry's vibrant and colourful cultural life. I am delighted that the council's Arts Development Service have been able to help this group on the road to success and independence by providing both financial support as well as mentoring support and advice."
Hamish Glen, the Belgrade Theatre's Artistic Director, said, "Since the 'Festival of South Asia' in 2002, the Belgrade has played a key role in establishing an annual event to showcase and celebrate the work of local South Asian performers and artists.
Hamish concluded by saying, "The Coventry Mela is now becoming well established as a major cultural event in the city and the Belgrade is really happy to be able to continue lending its support to the event. It was another successful Mela at the theatre and the event offered a really wide range of activities that people of all ages and from all communities right across the city enjoyed".
Information © Coventry City Council, 31-Jan-2006