Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council

10/04/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/04/2024 11:01

Global Roots Festival at Shakespeare North Playhouse

Global Roots Festival at Shakespeare North Playhouse

by Emily MaguireOctober 4, 2024
October 4, 2024
2

A one-day festival of world music, dance and food is coming Shakespeare North Playhouse on Saturday 12 October. Global Roots Festival is a vibrant celebration of cultures from around the world and the diverse communities living in Knowsley.

Throughout the day, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy live traditional Iranian music performed by The Rahav Music Band, experience captivating dance performances from Sheetal Maru, and take part in spoken word workshops led by Yemeni-Scouse poet Amina Atiq.

The day will be compered by Rapper, singer-songwriter and spoken word poet, Blue Saint.

In the evening Phina Oruche's acclaimed one-woman show, Identity Crisis takes place in the Studio space whist in the Cockpit Theatre an exciting music line-up, curated by acclaimed artist KOF will feature some of Liverpool's most exciting emerging talent.

Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley Council's Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods said: "We have a vibrant and thriving community here in Knowsley with people from all over the globe choosing to live here. This event is part of Knowsley's 50th Anniversary celebrations and is an opportunity to celebrate the many different cultures we have here in the borough and also gives people a chance to discover them a little more."

Laura Collier, Creative Director at Shakespeare North Playhouse said: "We are delighted to be hosting Global Roots at Shakespeare North Playhouse, the festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Knowsley and the Liverpool City Region, and the building will be brought to life with music, dance, theatre and workshops."

As well as performances Shakespeare North Playhouse will also host a world market with makers and vendors selling food and other goods from around the globe.

Global Roots Fest takes place at Shakespeare North Playhouse on Saturday 12 October from 1pm - 6pm, with Phina Oruche: Identity Crisis and KOF and Friends both starting at 7pm.

Programme of events:

Poetry and Activism Workshop with Amina Atiq

The Gallery, 1pm - 3pm & 4pm - 5pm

Join Amina Atiq, celebrated Yemeni-British poet, performance artist, creative-educational practitioner and award-winning community activist to explore stories of resilience.

Can poetry be a vehicle of social change? Are you the next aspiring radical poet? Amina hosts a session of reading, writing and exploring poetry of social activism.

1pm-3pm: Drop-in activity to explore the importance of poets in our society and highlighting narratives of struggle and resilience.

4pm-5pm: Free ticketed session for adults to explore their own creative voice through poetry, with the option to perform their work at 5pm in the gallery space.

Book here

The Rahav Music Band

First Floor Foyer, 1pm and 2pm

The Rahav Music Band have been performing together for the past seven years, appearing at festivals and hosting concerts across the UK.

Comprised of highly skilled musicians from Iran, the band uses traditional Iranian instruments merged with Western instruments like the violin and guitar.

Their performances are a blend of traditional Iranian classical music, enriched by modern Western influences, creating a distinctive fusion style that resonates with audiences.

Indian Dance with Sheetal Maru

The Foyer, 1.30pm, 2.30pm & 3.30pm

Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms and rich traditions of Indian dance. This captivating showcase led by Sheetal Maru takes you on a journey through India's diverse regions, featuring the energetic choreography of Bollywood, the grace of Indian classical dance, and the colourful folk styles of Gujarat, Punjab, and Tamil Naadu's Gaana.

Presented in partnership with Milap, an organization dedicated to promoting Indian arts in the UK, this performance blends tradition with modern flair, offering a glimpse into the heart of Indian culture. Each dance reflects the unique spirit of its region, bringing together both history and contemporary expression for an unforgettable experience.

Phina Oruche: Identity Crisis

The Studio, 7pm

Identity is a complex and puzzling thing - a conundrum for many. What is it exactly that defines you? The colour of your skin? The postcode in which you were born, or now reside? Religion? Phina Oruche is now putting her narrative back in her own hands.

Identity Crisis sees her play nine characters: black, white, young, old, male and female - tackling observations on racial identity, art, media, and speaking your truth.

Tickets £5 - £12

Book here

KOF and Friends

Cockpit Theare, 7pm

A vibrant live event showcasing Liverpool's freshest talent as curated by the acclaimed artist KOF and in partnership with GoPlay Studio

This event promises to deliver high-energy performances from some of the city's most exciting emerging artists, all set to the backdrop of a live band. This is more than just a concert-it's a celebration of community, creativity, and music.

KOF and his talented musical friends will take the stage together, each bringing their own unique style and sound to create a night filled with diverse musical experiences. It's a rare opportunity to see these artists up close and personal in an intimate setting that truly reflects the soul of Liverpool's music scene.

Tickets £5 - £30

Book here

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