Saturday 6 – Sunday 14 June 2015
Liverpool Arab Arts Festival – Shaping Change: A work in progress,
Liverpool Arab Arts Festival welcomed a host of international and UK based artists performers and commentators to showcase the breadth and richness of contemporary and traditional Arab culture. This time, the programme was selected to the theme Shaping Change: A work in progress, an exploration of how Arab communities worldwide are responding to contemporary changes from within.
Events included Palestinian singer, musicologist and broadcaster, Reem Kelani, whose voice is described as combining ‘the poignancy of Billie Holiday with the glass-busting power of Aretha Franklin’ (The Independent), performing with her band at the iconic St George’s Hall.
In partnership with Savera Liverpool, a Symposium – Shaping Change, Women, Culture and Art at Bluecoat,
What happens when female creative aspirations breach the boundaries of cultural norms? This unique event, focused on the multiple challenges women of Arab culture face to participate fully in the arts. Facilitated by Nazir Afzal OBE,
The ever popular Family Day was held at Sefton Park Palm House
Performers included Mazaj, Abdelkader Saadoun, Nawarra and the young people of Liverpool Arabic Centre.
Meanwhile, Big Sunday was extravaganza of music, dance, and food from the Arab world. Performers include Simona Abdallah, Al Awadhel Band and Aziza, plus other family friendly workshops, children’s activities and vocal performances from the young people of Liverpool Arabic Centre.
Other events included Arabian Nights at St Anthony of Padua Church, Ancient Routes with Alia Alzougbi and Louai Alhenawi at Unity Theatre, Yemen Peace Project at Bluecoat and BBC Arabic Festival at FACT
Read the brochure and explore the full 2015 programme here