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19 July 2009
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Gigs & Events

October
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Find out what's going on in the world of African arts and music. We've listed everything from club nights to conferences.

If you have an event which you would like listed here, please contact us.

October 2007 Events

  • Scratch the Surface

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 1-31 October 2007
    • National Gallery
    • London

    'Scratch the Surface' is part of the National Gallery's contribution to a range of activities and events commemorating the 200th anniversary of the 1807 Act to abolish the British trade in African people. Although the Act did not end slavery itself, it was the first attempt by the British to legally bring the trade to a close.

    In this exhibition we examine the role that the slave trade played in the lives of two people featured in portraits in our collection: Zoffany's portrait of 'Mrs Oswald' and Sir Joshua Reynolds's 'Colonel Tarleton'.

    Colonel Tarleton, as MP for Liverpool in the 1790s, argued very strongly in Parliament against the abolition of the trade. Mrs Oswald, along with her husband Richard Oswald, owed part of their wealth to a number of plantations in the Americas. The painting of Mrs Oswald was bought by the Gallery in 1938, while the Tarleton portrait was bequeathed to the Gallery by one of his descendants in the early 1950s.

    As part of the exhibition, 2004 Turner Prize nominee, Yinka Shonibare MBE, has been invited to create a new installation in response to these two portraits. This stunning new work will go on display in the Barry Rooms.

    Other events commemorating the anniversary include related film screenings and Talks at 1pm every Wednesday in September explore Scratch the Surface. Highlights include Yinka Shonibare, MBE, discussing the creation of his installation (5 September), and an exploration of the politics of dress, with exhibition costume maker Mary Charlton.

    Some areas of the Gallery will be closed for staff training on Monday mornings until 11am.

    • Time: 10am - 6pm daily, Wednesday 10am - 9pm
    • Admission: free
    • Address: Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN
    • Nearest stations: Charing Cross, Leicester Square, Embankment and Westminster
     
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  • Inhuman Traffic: The Business of the Slave Trade

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 1-31 October 2007
    • British Museum
    • London

    This small exhibition explores how the Transatlantic Slave Trade functioned.It covers more than 500 years, including the Parliamentary Abolition of the Slave Trade in 1807.

    It features resistance leaders including Toussaint l'Ouverture, Olaudah Equiano and Nanny of the Maroons, and their continuing llegacy of the struggle to end enslavement.

    Located in room 69a.

    • Time: 10.00am - 5.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Address: Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3DG
    • Nearest stations: Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, Russell Square, Goodge Street, Covent Garden, Euston
     
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  • The Yacoubian Building

    • Film
    • 1-28 October 2007
    • Institute of Contemporary Arts
    • London

    This epic adaptation of Al Aswany's bestseller is an absorbing, beautiful film that delves into the nitty-gritty of modern Egyptian life, including corruption, forbidden love, fundamentalism and the hitherto taboo subject of homosexuality. It contains multiple stories involving the residents of the famous Yacoubian building, situated in downtown Cairo, from the well-to-do tenants of the luxurious apartments through to the poor families living in its rooftop laundry rooms.

    The film moves at an elegant pace, blending love and politics with family and religion, while never losing track of the subtle connection between the current state of the country and the decaying gentilty of a once elegant building. It's the most expensive Egyptian film ever made and the big budget shows: there's a starry cast, a majestic score and some wonderful, grand cinematography.

    Dir Marwan Hamed, Egypt 2005, 172mins

    • Time: 4.15pm & 7.45pm
    • Tickets: £8/ £7 concs/ £6 ICA members
    • Box Office: 0207 930 3647
    • Address: The Mall, London SW1Y 5AH
    • Nearest stations: Charing Cross, Leicester Square, Piccadilly
     
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  • Bombay Africans 1850 - 1910

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 1-31 October 2007
    • Royal Geographical Society
    • London

    Discover the contribution made by a group of Africans to the exploration of Africa and the anti-slavery movement in the 19th century.

    THe journeys of Africans Sidi Mubarak Bombay, James Chuma, Jacob Wainright and Abdullah Susi are revealed; from enslavement at a young age in Africa, these men were freed from slavery by British Royal Navy ships and released to live in India. They later returned to Africa and joined the expeditions of explorers such as Burton, Speke and Livingstone.

    Contemporary commentary from London based African adult and children's groups around the broader themes of migration and displacement are included in teh exhibition to help reinterpret the history illustrated by the Society's collections from an African perspective.

    • Information: 0207 591 3052
    • Address: 1 Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AR
    • Nearest station: South Kensington
     
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  • The Call

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 1-2 October 2007
    • La Galleria
    • London

    Five leading Ghanaian artists are launching their first major London exhibition entitled "The Call".

    Inspired by the ancient tradition of West Africa’s rich cultural heritage, the show celebrates the importance of 50 years of Ghana’s artistic expression since the country’s independence from the UK. The show is entitled “The Call”, which honours an ancient Ghanaian tradition using specific drumbeats and patterns to inform or “call” the community together. The paintings will visually celebrate how art has been a medium through which Ghana carved out an identity for itself after its struggle and acquisition of Independence.

    “The Call” will also introduce five established Ghanaian artists to London including Sami Bentil, Wiz Kudowor, Nii T Mills, Rikki, and Glen Turner. The show will also raise funds for three leading charities – Wellbeing of Women, DWIB Leukaemia Trust and Spirituality for kids.

    • Time: 12.00pm - 9.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0207 930 8069
    • Address: 5b Pall Mall, Royal Opera Arcade, London SW1 4UY
    • Nearest station: Trafalgar Square
     
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  • Blind Memories

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 1-31 October 2007
    • 198
    • London

    198’s contribution to the commemoration of the parliamentary abolition of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, Blind Memories proposes to look at the role of visual representations in the formation of collective memories of the Trade.

    Memory traces, impressions or images, have figured in theories of memory from Aristotle through Descartes, Freud and into 21st century thinking. Precious devices of the mourning process, relics from the past have a crucial role in the foundation of group identities following the experience of a traumatic event. But how legitimate are these relics when, as per the case of visual representations of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, they are partly based upon strangely rooted, compromised emotions “such as envy for the slave as ultimate martyr, philanthropic sentimentality and even pornographic fantasy?” (M. Wood, 2000).

    Gathering an eclectic body of work by artists Ana Avendano, Joanne Gibbs, Rita Keegan, Cheryl Lane, Taslim Martin, Agnes Poitevin-Navarre and Susan Stockwell, Blind Memories reinterprets, across a variety of media, the iconic representation(s) of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and their legacies, from 15th century portulan charts to 19th century anthropological photography, critically assesses their role in the History writing process, and their contribution to the politics of representing race and the fantasised, imaginary “other”.

    Blind Memories evaluates how this bizarre assemblage of voices allows us to achieve any degree of understanding of the Slave Trade today, and ultimately begs the question: can we make art out of the middle passage?

    • Time: 10.00am - 6.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Address: Contemporary Arts and Learning, 198 Railton Road, SE24 OJT
    • Nearest station: Brixton
     
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  • Motherland: A story of being and belonging

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 2-6 October 2007
    • Oval House Theatre
    • London

    This uplifting and epic dnace theatre piece celebrates the diversity of modern Britain and is being presented to remember the 200th anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act.

    Beginning in 21st Century Birmingham, Motherland spans 200 years of history from the perspective of two people, one Asian and one African. It traces their ancestor's experiences from the plantations of Trinidad to the colonies of South Africa and India.

    An international cast of dancers, actors and musicians unites like on stage to create the sounds, rhythms and movements of India, Africa, the Caribbean and the UK. High energy Indian and African drum beats are fused with powerful vocals in a specially commissioned score performed live on stage.

    • Time: 3.30pm matinee & 7.45pm evening shows
    • Tickets: £12 / £6 concessions
    • Box Office: 0207 582 0080
    • Address: 52-54 Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SW
    • Nearest station: Oval
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  • Routes to Freedom

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 3-31 October 2007
    • The Drum
    • Birmingham

    Three separate exhibitions focussing on different aspects of slavery curated as part of the Routes to Freedom season.

    Forgotten But Not Gone by Pete Pattisson . On 25 March 1807 Britain officially abolished the slave trade. 200 years later at least 12 million people worldwide remain in forms of slavery. Photojournalist Pete Pattisson looks at slavery and resistance 200 years after abolition including the exploitation and enslavement of men, women and children in India, Haiti, Ghana, Burma Ireland and the UK. This powerful and moving exhibition is a compelling reminder that slavery may be forgotten but has not gone.

    Interwoven Freedom by SCAWDI & English Heritage . An exhibition of textiles, text panels and an audio documentary created by Sparkbrook African and Caribbean Women’s Development Initiative (SCAWDI) in a project to highlight the role of women in the abolitionist movement. The exhibition will also contain photographs documenting the project by Vanley Burke.

    Recovered Histories by Anti-Slavery International . A historical exhibition that reawakens the narratives of slavery, resistance and the fight for freedom. Featuring testimonies and pictures from Africans subjected to slavery, those participating in the enslavement and those who fought against it.

    • Time: 10.00am - 6.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Box Office: 0121 333 2400
    • Address: 144 Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham B6 4UU
     
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  • Jali Sherrifo Konteh

    • Music
    • 4 October 2007
    • Cube Theatre
    • Bristol

    Gambian Kora player and singer, Jali Sherrifo Konteh returns to England for his third tour. SHarrifo comes from one of the most highly respected families of jalis (hereditary musicians) in West Africa. His father was Alhaji Bai Konte and his older brother is Dembo Konte. He still lives in the town of Brikama where he was born and where so many musicians rich in the Jaliya culture make their homes.

    He is an extraordinarily talented musician, a very fine singer and a very friendly and communicative performer who enthrals and involves his audiences. With his ecellenct command of English, he is able to inform audiences as well as entertain. As well as playing and singing in his concerts, Sherrifo will, if requested, start his concerts with a short talk, illustrated with slides from a multimedia projector, explaining the traditional role of the jali in Manding society, the position of his family in this role, the making of the kora (a jali is expected to make as well as play his own instruments) and something of the life he leads in his country which is so poor economically but so rich culturally.

    • Time:8.00pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0117 907 4190
    • Address: 4 Princess Row, Kingsdown, Bristol BS2 8NQ
     
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  • Iniva invites you to Rivington Place: Is London the Place for Me?

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 5-27 October 2007
    • Iniva, Institute of International Visual Arts
    • London

    When you first arrived in London did you think it was the place for you? Or do you know if your parents thought it was the place for them? How do you feel about London now?

    Exploring responses to questions like these, artist Leticia Valverdes will be working with groups and individuals to create professional portrait postcards. Everyone is welcome to join Leticia at Rivington Place in a specially customised photographic studio. Through small discussion groups and conversations with the artist, you can talk about your hopes and expectations on arriving in the capital, and also consider how you are perceived by others in London.

    Following these conversations, you can choose a digital backdrop and props for your studio portrait as well as the clothes you want to wear for it. The final portraits will be made into postcards that you can send to a friend or a loved one or keep as a memory of your experience. We will also ask you to donate one of your postcards to a special Is London the Place for Me? Portrait Postcardexhibition at Rivington Place, from 5th to 27th October.

    Groups: Book now to come along with a group of friends, workmates or as a family on Thursday and Friday afternoons from 12-6pm.

    Individuals: Drop into the studio on Thursday evenings 6-8pm or Saturdays 12--6pm during October.

    Bring along any clothes, make-up or props to use for your portrait!

    • Time: 12.00am - 8.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0207 729 9616
    • Enquiries: tledda@iniva.org
    • Address: Rivington Place, London EC2A 3BA
    • Nearest station: Old Street
     
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  • Mohammed Antar (Egypt)

    • Music
    • 5 October 2007
    • St Ethelburga's Centre for Reconciliation & Peace
    • London

    A renown ney player specialising in Middle Eastern classical and traditional music, especially the spiritual musical branches. A master of Arabic, Turkish, and Persian techniques and styles.

    Born in Tanta/Egypt on Saturday, 14th of October 1978, Mohammed Antar’s musical talent was bestowed upon him at the same day of his birth. This was not strange in view of the fact that his date of birth was at the same day of the celebration of Sheikh Ahmad El-Badawy’s memorial with musicians roaring throughout the whole city accompanying the different religious singers who had previously come for that huge annual festival.

    • Time: 7.00pm - 11.00pm
    • Tickets: £11
    • Information: 0207 7496 1610
    • Address: 78 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AG
    • Nearest station: Liverpool Street
     
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  • Bring The Noise

    • Music
    • 5 October 2007
    • The Freedom Studio @ The Roundhouse
    • London

    Musicians from 10 countries across East & West Africa perform collaborative works accompanied by live visuals in this exciting project. The artists have just 2 weeks to write & practise their material prior to their debut performances at the Roundhouse and Shunt. After performing in London, the artists will tour across sub-Saharan Africa in 2007-2008. The two live shows will provide a chance to see the work in progress. The project is being guided by Ghanaian Music Director, Ivor Placca, and VJ artist & Visuals Specialist, Kelly Budge (YourMum Visuals).

    Musicians from the East and West Africa collective will promote the contemporary sound of Africa and include: reggae singer Johnny Ragga (Ethiopia), hip-hop musician Kunta Ali (Cameroon), gospel singer OJ (Ghana), MC Muthoni Ndonga (Kenya), MC Keyti (Senegal), singer Emmerson Bockaire (Sierra Leone), singer/songwriter Lisa Shakir (Sudan), reggae musician Ragga Dee (Uganda), traditional musician Paul Ndunguru (Tanzania), hip-hop artist MI (Nigeria), musician IG Culture (UK) and drummer Paul Clarvis (UK).

    Bring the Noise is a British Council led project and is part of the three year programme, Africa 07, which celebrates the bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act and the fiftieth anniversary of Ghana.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £4
    • Box Office: 0870 389 1846
    • Address: Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8EH
    • Nearest station: Chalk Farm
     
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  • Angels Choir

    • Music
    • 6 October 2007
    • Forest Arts Centre
    • New Milton

    Twenty gifted children aged between 8 - 16 from Kaduna in Nigeria, West Afrca make up the ANGELS choir. In October they will be embarking on their debut tour, aiming to unite cultures, youthful enthusiasm and diversity as well as raising much needed funds to support their communities.

    When you listen to the ANGELS sing they invariably give cause for silent reflection. Back in Nigeria these children and their families suffer constantly at the hands of poverty and disease, stealing the lives of friends and family before they are given a chance to blossom into Africa's new generation.

    However the ANGELS wish to look towards a brighter future. When they burst into song, their voices soar with passion and hope, holding audiences spellbound with their charm and charisma.

    • Time: 7.00pm
    • Tickets: £8 / £7 concessions & £6 supporters
    • Box Office: 01425 612393
    • Address: Old Milton Road, New Milton, Hampshire BH25 6DS
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  • African Image Alliance Launches Ghana Music Exhibition

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 6-31 October 2007
    • The Greenwich Heritage Centre
    • London

    African Image Alliance continues its year-long Ghana 50 Festival as it presents a Ghana 50 Music and Heritage Exhibition, at the Greenwich Heritage Centre during Black History Month.

    THe exhibition is the first of its kind in the UK and traces of 100 years of Ghana's musical history from 1860 to present day using archival photographs, music, film and memorabilia. It also explores the origins of Highlife and Hip life music, African Reggae, Afrobeat, Kpanlogo and how gospel highlife was influential including women in African music. The exhibition is curated by Professor John Collins from the University of Legon, Ghana.

    Ghana's social and political climate was often reflected and expressed through its musicianship, musical recordings and compositions. The Independence Era during the 50's and 60's in particular, mirrored the mood of this pioneering African nation, whose Independence in 1957 consequently inspired other African nations and Caribbean countries to pursue independence from Britain.

    • Time: 9.00am - 5.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0207 243 6611
    • Address: Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich London SE18 4DX
     
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  • Bring The Noise

    • Music
    • 6 October 2007
    • Shunt Lounge
    • London

    Musicians from 10 countries across East & West Africa perform collaborative works accompanied by live visuals in this exciting project. The artists have just 2 weeks to write & practise their material prior to their debut performances at the Roundhouse and Shunt. After performing in London, the artists will tour across sub-Saharan Africa in 2007-2008. The two live shows will provide a chance to see the work in progress. The project is being guided by Ghanaian Music Director, Ivor Placca, and VJ artist & Visuals Specialist, Kelly Budge (YourMum Visuals).

    Musicians from the East and West Africa collective will promote the contemporary sound of Africa and include: reggae singer Johnny Ragga (Ethiopia), hip-hop musician Kunta Ali (Cameroon), gospel singer OJ (Ghana), MC Muthoni Ndonga (Kenya), MC Keyti (Senegal), singer Emmerson Bockaire (Sierra Leone), singer/songwriter Lisa Shakir (Sudan), reggae musician Ragga Dee (Uganda), traditional musician Paul Ndunguru (Tanzania), hip-hop artist MI (Nigeria), musician IG Culture (UK) and drummer Paul Clarvis (UK).

    Bring the Noise is a British Council led project and is part of the three year programme, Africa 07, which celebrates the bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act and the fiftieth anniversary of Ghana.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £5 no advance bookings, free for Shunt Lounge members
    • Information: 0207 378 7776
    • Address: Joiner Street, London Bridge, London SE1
    • Nearest station: London Bridge
     
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  • Africa Mine Film: As Old As My Tongue

    • Film
    • 7 October 2007
    • Arcola Theatre
    • London

    As part of Africa Mine , this is a portrait of Bi Kidude - legendary Taarab singer and probably the oldest performer on the world stage today that captures the vibrancy of Zanzibar. Followed by Q&A with the director.

    Dir Andy Jones, UK/Zanzibar 2006 66mins

    In the bar there will be live a performance from Tanzanian vocalist Mim Suleiman with live percussion DJ

    • Time: 4.00pm
    • Tickets: £8 double bill/ £5 single screening
    • Box Office: 0207 503 1646
    • Address: 27 Arcola Street, Dalston, London E8 2DJ
     
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  • Africa Mine Film: A Lion's Trail

    • Film
    • 7 October 2007
    • Arcola Theatre
    • London

    As part of Africa Mine , this is a journey through musical worlds i South Africa and the USA, unravelling the story behind the famous song 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight' originally written by a poor Zulu farmer. Followed by Q&A with the editor Peter Neal.

    Dir Francois Verster, South Africa 2002 55mins

    In the bar there will be Afrobeats and Grooves from Kalabash Movement resident DJs Supa Scion & Springfield.

    • Time: 7.00pm
    • Tickets: £8 double bill/ £5 single screening
    • Box Office: 0207 503 1646
    • Address: 27 Arcola Street, Dalston, London E8 2DJ
     
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  • Ira Aldridge Double Bill: Part I, The Remarkable Ira Aldridge

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 7 October 2007
    • Victoria and Albert Museum
    • London

    Take an engaging look at the life and times of Ira Aldridge through panel discussion, debate and display with those who know Ira well, Oku Ekpenyon, Burt Caesar, Leon Robinson and Makeda Coaston who will Chair this event. The book IRA ALDRIDGE: Celebrated 19th Century Actor written by Martin Hoyles will also be launched at this event.

    • Time: 1.45pm - 3.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0207 942 2211
    • Address: Cromwell Road London SW7 2RL
    • Nearest station: South Kensington
     
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  • Ira Aldridge Double Bill: Part II, Splendid Summer - Theatre performance

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 7 October 2007
    • Victoria and Albert Museum
    • London

    A tribute to Ira Aldridge, the great Shakespearean actor who was mercilessly slated by London critics, but his magnificence on stage earn him a reputation across Europe and Russia that far outstripped his contemporaries. Actor Shango Baku will play Aldridge, who was also an unusual abolitionist and a campaigner for the enslaved. A collaboration with Cultural Exchange Through Theatre in Education (CETTIE).

    • Time: 3.45pm - 5.15pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0207 942 2211
    • Address: Cromwell Road London SW7 2RL
    • Nearest station: South Kensington
     
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  • The Peter's Projection

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 7 October 2007
    • Neighbourhood
    • London

    Afro-soul, Afro-jazz, Afro-hip hop, Afro-grime, Afro-old skool, Afro-reggae-rock! You heard it first at "The Peter's Projection", London's fresh new stage for experimental African artists. Hosted by singer-songwriter, Netsayi, our exciting new night launches with DJ Lloyd, 1Xtra's DJ Edu plus live music from DKR! Also featuring: Jenny Adejayan on cello, Jules Faife on guitar, Wes Gibbens on drum kit and Matheus Nova on bass.

    • Time: 7.00pm - 12.00am
    • Tickets: £6 on the door
    • Information: petersprojection@netsayi.com
    • Address: 12 Acklam Road, London Q10 5QZ
    • Nearest station: Ladbroke Grove
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  • Sugar and Spice Festival Featuring Miriam Makeba

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 8-14 October 2007
    • Gateshead Quays
    • Newcastle Gateshead

    This year is the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the Parliamentary Act to abolish the Transatlantic Slave Trade. To commemorate this bicentenary the Sugar & Spice festivalaims to celebrate the skills and talents of black artists and the richness that they bring to the UK's communities. A venue will be built on Mill Road carr park on Gateshead Quays including a temporary theatre

    Highlights of the exciting and innovative programme will include the opera Mary Seacole , once known as 'The Black Florence Nightingale', in collaboration with the opera and dance company Gyenyame, and On Liberation Street , n which up to 150 local performers will perform alongside the Grand Union Orchestra, a multi-cultural music ensemble. The festival weekend will include street theatre, music, food and a marketplace.

    On the opening night of the festival we are proud to welcome world famous South African performer Miriam Makeba . Miriam Makeba is African music's first and foremost world star, she is a pioneer who played her early songs and blended different styles long before anyone even began to talk about "world music".

    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0191 433 6967
    • Address: Mill Road, Gateshead Quays
     
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  • Poetry Writing Workshops for Refugees and Exhiles

    • Music
    • 9 October 2007
    • Finsbury Library
    • London

    Where do you come from, what is your identity? If you are interested in writing poems about your life experiences and what it is like to be exiled in a new country, do come along and be encouraged to find a way into writing. All welcome.

    Poetry Writing Workshops with poet and workshop facilitator: Lynette Craig holds an MPhil in Writing; she mentors exiled writers and leads workshops for both beginners and more experienced writers. Her own writing reflects her interest in the dispossessed, the persecution and exile.

    This event is free however please book by emailing the following addres: Jennifer@exiledwriters.fsnet.co.uk

    • Time: 11.00am - 1.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Address: 245 St John Street, Islington London EC1V 4NB
    • Nearest station: Angel
     
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  • Angels Choir

    • Music
    • 10 October 2007
    • Ashcroft Arts Centre
    • Fareham

    Twenty gifted children aged between 8 - 16 from Kaduna in Nigeria, West Afrca make up the ANGELS choir. In October they will be embarking on their debut tour, aiming to unite cultures, youthful enthusiasm and diversity as well as raising much needed funds to support their communities.

    When you listen to the ANGELS sing they invariably give cause for silent reflection. Back in Nigeria these children and their families suffer constantly at the hands of poverty and disease, stealing the lives of friends and family before they are given a chance to blossom into Africa's new generation.

    However the ANGELS wish to look towards a brighter future. When they burst into song, their voices soar with passion and hope, holding audiences spellbound with their charm and charisma.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £8 / £7 concessions & £6 supporters
    • Box Office: 01329 223100
    • Address: Osborn Road, Fareham, Hampshire PO16 7DX
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  • Angels Choir

    • Music
    • 11 October 2007
    • West End Centre
    • Aldershot

    Twenty gifted children aged between 8 - 16 from Kaduna in Nigeria, West Afrca make up the ANGELS choir. In October they will be embarking on their debut tour, aiming to unite cultures, youthful enthusiasm and diversity as well as raising much needed funds to support their communities.

    When you listen to the ANGELS sing they invariably give cause for silent reflection. Back in Nigeria these children and their families suffer constantly at the hands of poverty and disease, stealing the lives of friends and family before they are given a chance to blossom into Africa's new generation.

    However the ANGELS wish to look towards a brighter future. When they burst into song, their voices soar with passion and hope, holding audiences spellbound with their charm and charisma.

    • Time: 7.00pm
    • Tickets: £8 / £7 concessions & £6 supporters
    • Box Office: 01252 408040
    • Address: Queens Road, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 3JD
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  • Angels Choir

    • Music
    • 12 October 2007
    • South Street
    • Reading

    Twenty gifted children aged between 8 - 16 from Kaduna in Nigeria, West Afrca make up the ANGELS choir. In October they will be embarking on their debut tour, aiming to unite cultures, youthful enthusiasm and diversity as well as raising much needed funds to support their communities.

    When you listen to the ANGELS sing they invariably give cause for silent reflection. Back in Nigeria these children and their families suffer constantly at the hands of poverty and disease, stealing the lives of friends and family before they are given a chance to blossom into Africa's new generation.

    However the ANGELS wish to look towards a brighter future. When they burst into song, their voices soar with passion and hope, holding audiences spellbound with their charm and charisma.

    • Time: 8.00pm
    • Tickets: £8
    • Box Office: 01252 408040
    • Address: 21 South Street, Reading RG1 4QU
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  • The Impact of Legacy: can black art really triumph?

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 12-30 October 2007
    • Victoria and Albert Museum
    • London

    Examine the impact of the slave trade on art & design and the affect on British culture today, whilst exploring the realities of what it means to gain real success as a Black artist or designer. Course includes tours around the museums collections, an external trip, internet, slides, film extracts, talks and discussion. Course leader: Peter Ashan.

    • Time: 1.30pm - 4.30pm
    • Admission: free (booking required)
    • Information: 0207 942 2211
    • Booking: bookings.office@vam.ac.uk
    • Address: Cromwell Road London SW7 2RL
    • Nearest station: South Kensington
     
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  • The Dame Jocylen Barrow Story plus who was Carter G Woodson

    • Film
    • 13 October 2007
    • Museum in Docklands
    • London

    If there are black people working in Oxford Street now they owe it to Dame Jocylen Barrow. Dame Jocylen was a crucial figure in the Campaign Against Racial discrimination, an organisation she set up after meeting Martin Luther King on his visit from London. She also fought for the Race Relations Acts of 1965, 68 and 76 which allowed African people to get decent jobs, housing and education. This is her story.

    Carter G Woodson is the founder of what began as Negro History week, now known as Black History Month. This interactive presentation will tell you all about him and his international legacy.

    • Time: 10.30am - 12.45pm
    • Admission: free
    • Address: West India Quay, Canary Wharf, London E14 4AL
    • Nearest station: Canary Wharf
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  • Angels Choir

    • Music
    • 13 October 2007
    • Our Lady of Peace Church
    • Earley

    Twenty gifted children aged between 8 - 16 from Kaduna in Nigeria, West Afrca make up the ANGELS choir. In October they will be embarking on their debut tour, aiming to unite cultures, youthful enthusiasm and diversity as well as raising much needed funds to support their communities.

    When you listen to the ANGELS sing they invariably give cause for silent reflection. Back in Nigeria these children and their families suffer constantly at the hands of poverty and disease, stealing the lives of friends and family before they are given a chance to blossom into Africa's new generation.

    However the ANGELS wish to look towards a brighter future. When they burst into song, their voices soar with passion and hope, holding audiences spellbound with their charm and charisma.

    • Time: 7.00pm
    • Tickets: £8
    • Information: 07831 093 499
    • Address: 338 Wokingham Road, Earley, Reading RG6 7DA
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  • Sidi Goma: Black Sufis of Gujarat

    • Music
    • 13 October 2007
    • Barbican
    • London

    The mysterious, little known Sidis are the descendants of Africans who travelled across the Indian Ocean from East Africa to India over the last 1000 years. As Sufi Muslim devotees to an African saint and symbolic ancestor, their sacred songs praise the gift of joy he collected on his mythical journey.

    Sharing this sacred gift through their music and dance is their divine calling and life-affirming talent. The exuberant energy and joyful presence Sidi Goma bring to the stage is captivating and powerful, taking their fascinating and unique African-Indian heritage out to light of the world.

    • Time: 8.00pm
    • Tickets: £10/£15/20
    • Box Office: 0207 638 8891
    • Address: Silk street, London EC2Y 8DS
    • Nearest station: Barbican and Moorgate
     
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  • Word Power: International Black Literature Festival & Book Fair

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 13-14 October 2007
    • The Emirates
    • London

    A gathering of Africa's sons and daughters from the mother continent, theCaribbean, the Americas and Europe assembles in the UK to commemorate the bicentenary of the abolition of the slave trade act of 1807, with readings, poetry, book launches, children's events, story telling, lectures and master classes in creative writing, publishing and more.

    Featuring authors will include Monica Arac de Nyeco from Uganda, 2007 Caine Prize winner for African Writing; Robin Walker, author of When We Ruled; Internationally renowned Jmaican poets, Muta Baruka and Amina Blackwood-Meeks; African-Canadian, Anne Marie Woods; African-American Egyptologist and author of Nile Valley Contributions to Civilisations and From teh Browder Files Anthony Browder and many more!

    • Time: 12.00am onwards
    • Information: 0207 254 9632
    • Address: Arsenal Stadium Conference Hall, London N7
     
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  • Celebrating Africa: family activity day

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 14 October 2007
    • Victoria and Albert Museum
    • London

    Enjoy showcase performances by African cultural groups and artists including Syeyaoum of Kenya, Annang of Nigeria, Achibongs of Ghana and Papanas of South Africa; in association with Sandblast view a film screening of 'The Story of Saharawis' produced by Marta Fernandez; join a toy-making workshop with artist Renzo Lorenzo using recycled materials inspired by refugee camps in South Western Algeria or print an African inspired T-shirt and in association with Afruca you are invited to view a film and join a round table discussion on children and modern day slavery, with special guests, Director of Afruca Debbie Arayo and award winning film maker Sorious Samura. In collaboration with Celebrating Africa.

    • Time: 12.00pm - 5.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0207 942 2211
    • Address: Cromwell Road London SW7 2RL
    • Nearest station: South Kensington
     
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  • Angels Choir

    • Music
    • 15 October 2007
    • The Stables Theatre
    • Milton Keynes

    Twenty gifted children aged between 8 - 16 from Kaduna in Nigeria, West Afrca make up the ANGELS choir. In October they will be embarking on their debut tour, aiming to unite cultures, youthful enthusiasm and diversity as well as raising much needed funds to support their communities.

    When you listen to the ANGELS sing they invariably give cause for silent reflection. Back in Nigeria these children and their families suffer constantly at the hands of poverty and disease, stealing the lives of friends and family before they are given a chance to blossom into Africa's new generation.

    However the ANGELS wish to look towards a brighter future. When they burst into song, their voices soar with passion and hope, holding audiences spellbound with their charm and charisma.

    • Time: 1.30pm & 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £3 matinee & £10 evening
    • Box Office: 01908 280 800
    • Address: Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU
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  • Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Vusi Mahlasela

    • Music
    • 15-16 October 2007
    • South Bank Centre
    • London

    Ladysmith Black Mambazo's chorus of pwoerful harmonies emote the struggles and passion of South Africa. The warmth and charisma of founder and composer Joseph Shabalala, a man who has survied apartheid with his spirit whole, shines through Mambazo's music - their captivating Zulu harmonies are a proud, strong homage to the jubilancem power and beauty of indigenous music.

    Their music explores issues of racism, fair trade and politics among others. After they employed their music to celebrate the end of the aparteid era, Nelson Mandela publicly called Ladysmith "South Africa's cultural ambassadors", following his release from prison. The group sings acapella isicathamiya and mbube muisc - loud, powerful choruses contrast with softer, almost whispering chants where voices blend harmoniously, combined with tightly-choreographed dance moves that keep the singers on their toes.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £10/£20/£25/£27.50
    • Box Office: 08701 663 2505
    • Address: Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX
    • Nearest stations: Waterloo and Embankment
     
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  • Poetry Writing Workshops for Refugees and Exhiles

    • Music
    • 16 October 2007
    • Finsbury Library
    • London

    Where do you come from, what is your identity? If you are interested in writing poems about your life experiences and what it is like to be exiled in a new country, do come along and be encouraged to find a way into writing. All welcome.

    Poetry Writing Workshops with poet and workshop facilitator: Lynette Craig holds an MPhil in Writing; she mentors exiled writers and leads workshops for both beginners and more experienced writers. Her own writing reflects her interest in the dispossessed, the persecution and exile.

    This event is free however please book by emailing the following addres: Jennifer@exiledwriters.fsnet.co.uk

    • Time: 11.00am - 1.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Address: 245 St John Street, Islington London EC1V 4NB
    • Nearest station: Angel
     
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  • Seun Kuti & Eygpt 80

    • Music
    • 16-17 October 2007
    • Jazz Cafe
    • London

    Seun Kuti is Fela Anikulapo Kuti ‘s last son. Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, one of Africa s best-known pop music stars in the 1970s and 1980s and known for his songs criticizing the Nigerian military junta. Seun started learning to play saxophone when he was eight, which is also when he started taking piano lessons. Seun Kuti has been performing on stage since he was nine years old. He started his career as opening act with his father’s band, Egypt 80.

    Performing on stage with as many as twenty singers and musicians in regular sessions that sometimes go on all night was such an effective practical education that when Fela died in 1997, Seun, then just fifteen, was ready to take over. Since then, he has led Egypt 80 as lead vocalist and saxophonist, the focal point of a band that his father had forged into one of Africa’s most legendary ensembles.

    Fela’s Afrobeat was a pungent blend of funk and jazz with an African sensibility, reminiscent of James Brown but grittier, nastier and vaguely unsettling, like fermenting fruit. With Seun, Egypt 80 is as explosive as they were under Fela, combining horns, keyboards, percussion, guitars and vocals in a sophisticated and overpowering blend that is always insistent.

    • Time: 7.00pm - 11.00pm
    • Tickets: £25 adv/ £30
    • Address: 5 Parkway, London NW1 7PG
    • Nearest stations: Camden
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  • Angels Choir

    • Music
    • 17 October 2007
    • St Micheal's Church
    • Blewbury

    Twenty gifted children aged between 8 - 16 from Kaduna in Nigeria, West Afrca make up the ANGELS choir. In October they will be embarking on their debut tour, aiming to unite cultures, youthful enthusiasm and diversity as well as raising much needed funds to support their communities.

    When you listen to the ANGELS sing they invariably give cause for silent reflection. Back in Nigeria these children and their families suffer constantly at the hands of poverty and disease, stealing the lives of friends and family before they are given a chance to blossom into Africa's new generation.

    However the ANGELS wish to look towards a brighter future. When they burst into song, their voices soar with passion and hope, holding audiences spellbound with their charm and charisma.

    • Time: 8.00pm
    • Tickets: £8
    • Tickets: Blewbury Post Office
    • Informaiton: 07855 253 457
    • Address: Church End, Blewbury Oxfordshire OX11 9QH
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  • L'Afrique a Newcastle

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 17-23 October 2007
    • Newcastle

    L’Afrique a Newcastle Presents a programme of events marking Black History Month. This year's schedule is packed and includes film screenings of 'Sankofa' and 'The Last King of Scotland' , theatre with Jambo Africa, a Congolese Art Exhibition, 'Black Gold' and a debate on Fair Trade, plus more.

    L’Afrique en Angleterre is a not-for profit company established in 2003. Its name symbolises its desire to bring new forms of culture to the UK (L'Afrique en Angleterre is french for Africa in England). Their flagship event is the L'Afrique a Newcastle (Africa in Newcastle) Festival, aiming to celebrate and showcase African arts, promote understanding of the African continent and through the arts, to support the development of strong community relations.

    • Admission: free for most events
    • Information: 0191 226 3612
    • Enquiries: manoute@lafriqueanewcastle.com
     
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  • L'Afrique a Newcastle: Joseph Mulumba Mandangi exhibition

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 17-19 October 2007
    • Gallery north
    • Newcastle

    A chance to discover one of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s best known artists. Mulumba’s work is regularly displayed internationally and some of his paintings are on the walls of the Congolese presidency. He mixes abstract work with more conventional representations of African life.

    L’Afrique en Angleterre is a not-for profit company established in 2003. Its name symbolises its desire to bring new forms of culture to the UK (L'Afrique en Angleterre is french for Africa in England). Their flagship event is the L'Afrique a Newcastle (Africa in Newcastle) Festival, aiming to celebrate and showcase African arts, promote understanding of the African continent and through the arts, to support the development of strong community relations.

    • Time: 1.00pm - 5.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0191 226 3612
    • Enquiries: manoute@lafriqueanewcastle.com
    • Address: Squires Annexe, Northumbria University, City Campus, Ellison Place, Newcastle
     
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  • L'Afrique a Newcastle: Black Gold (U) + Debate

    • Film
    • 17 October 2007
    • Lipman Theatre
    • Newcastle

    A screening of the film by Nick and Marc Francis that follows Tadesse Meskela, manager of the Oromia Coffee Farmers Co-operative Union in Ethiopia and his battle to obtain a fair price on the international market. A gripping documentary that will be followed by a debate with Paul Chandler, CEO of Traidcraft, John Marshall, former Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Congolese Journalist Verron Munda, and Andy Redfern, co-director of ethicalsuperstore.com.

    L’Afrique en Angleterre is a not-for profit company established in 2003. Its name symbolises its desire to bring new forms of culture to the UK (L'Afrique en Angleterre is french for Africa in England). Their flagship event is the L'Afrique a Newcastle (Africa in Newcastle) Festival, aiming to celebrate and showcase African arts, promote understanding of the African continent and through the arts, to support the development of strong community relations.

    • Time: 6.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0191 226 3612
    • Enquiries: manoute@lafriqueanewcastle.com
    • Address: Lipman Building, Northumbria University, Sandyford Road, Newcastle
     
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  • Angels Choir

    • Music
    • 18 October 2007
    • Wellington College Gala Dinner
    • Crowthorne

    Twenty gifted children aged between 8 - 16 from Kaduna in Nigeria, West Afrca make up the ANGELS choir. In October they will be embarking on their debut tour, aiming to unite cultures, youthful enthusiasm and diversity as well as raising much needed funds to support their communities.

    When you listen to the ANGELS sing they invariably give cause for silent reflection. Back in Nigeria these children and their families suffer constantly at the hands of poverty and disease, stealing the lives of friends and family before they are given a chance to blossom into Africa's new generation.

    However the ANGELS wish to look towards a brighter future. When they burst into song, their voices soar with passion and hope, holding audiences spellbound with their charm and charisma.

    • Time: 7.00pm
    • Information: 07831 093 499
    • Address: Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 7PU
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  • Kekele-live + AfrikaJam DJs

    • Music
    • 18 October 2007
    • Hare & Hounds
    • Birmingham

    Kekele, the Congolese answer to Cuba's Buena Vista Social Club, are survivors from that era [60s]; now based in Paris and mostly in their 50s, they are still cheery and on good form, and are enjoying a new lease of life as musicians. From the first note, the audience is seduced by percolating percussion, honeyed voices and glorious guitars.

    A homage to the sultry Cuban grooves that beat in partnership with rhythms of the Congo, the music is ardent, playful and mature, delivered by an unbeatable roster of veteran performers including Nyboma Mwan Dido, Syran Mbenza, Loko Massengo, Bumba Massa and Wuta-Mayi plus five piece band.

    • Time: 8.00pm
    • Box Office: 0870 320 7000
    • Address: High Street, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 7JZ
     
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  • Jali Sherrifo Konteh

    • Music
    • 18 October 2007
    • Square Chapel
    • Yorkshire

    Gambian Kora player and singer, Jali Sherrifo Konteh returns to England for his third tour. SHarrifo comes from one of the most highly respected families of jalis (hereditary musicians) in West Africa. His father was Alhaji Bai Konte and his older brother is Dembo Konte. He still lives in the town of Brikama where he was born and where so many musicians rich in the Jaliya culture make their homes.

    He is an extraordinarily talented musician, a very fine singer and a very friendly and communicative performer who enthrals and involves his audiences. With his ecellenct command of English, he is able to inform audiences as well as entertain. As well as playing and singing in his concerts, Sherrifo will, if requested, start his concerts with a short talk, illustrated with slides from a multimedia projector, explaining the traditional role of the jali in Manding society, the position of his family in this role, the making of the kora (a jali is expected to make as well as play his own instruments) and something of the life he leads in his country which is so poor economically but so rich culturally.

    • Time:8.00pm
    • Box Office: 01422 349422
    • Address: 10 Square Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire HX1 1QG
     
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  • Joy Guy

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 18-19 October 2007
    • The New Wolsey Theatre
    • Ipswich

    'They hate us; they hate us because we are pure. Because we were not stupid enough to get caught, and taken away in chains.'

    An exciting, moving, unmissable exploration of celebrity, identity and the tensions between African and Caribbean communities in Britain. Produced in association with The New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich and Soho Theatre, London.

    Cast: Syan Blake, Michael Brogan, Heather Craney, Joseph Morgan, Pippa Nixon, Alexis Rodney, Abdul Salis, Mo Sesay

    • Time: 2.30pm & 7.45pm
    • Tickets: £7.45 - £18.95
    • Box Office: 01473 295 900
    • Address: Civic Drive, Ipswich, Sufolk IP1 2AS
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  • Kalabash Nigeria

    • Film
    • 18 October 2007
    • Salmon & Compass
    • London

    7pm Film 1: MUSIC IS THE WEAPON. Dir Stephane Tchal-Gadjieff & Jean Jacques Flori. 1982, 53 mins. This documentary gives a rare insight into the public and private life of composer, Afrobeat pioneer and human rights activist Fela Anikulapo Kuti (1938-1997). The interviews cover his resistance to the Nigerian regime, his controversial polygamous lifestyle and an exploration of the political context of his work.

    8pm Film 2: NIGERIA'S OIL WAR. Foreign Correspondent 2005, 18 mins. The Niger Delta People's Volunteer Force has brazenly stolen oil straight out of pipelines owned by some of the world’s biggest multinationals. The vast Niger Delta where they operate holds an estimated three percent of the world's oil. This well-organized crime gang has become a key player in the world’s most strategically important industry. Recently the price of oil rose to a record $50 a barrel when the market panicked after they threatened to cut-off the flow of oil.

    8.20pm Film 3: SUFFERING AND SMILING. Dir Dan Ollman, Nigeria/USA 2006, 65 mins. Focusing on Fela Kuti and his son Femi, Suffering and Smiling depicts the impact of their politically charged music. Following Nigeria's independence in 1960, Fela used his songs to speak out against the country's corrupt leaders. Since independence the military and political elite have enriched themselves by allowing Nigeria's oil and natural resources to be stripped by multi-national corporations with little benefit to ordinary Nigerians. Fela gave a voice to Nigeria's disenfranchised underclass and sang of a free and united Africa. Since Fela's death, Femi has continued the legacy. Equally passionate and charismatic, he asks why the world's most resource-rich continent has the poorest people, and carries a vision of better days ahead for the people of Nigeria.

    9.30pm Q&A & film discussion with Eki from ALISC and Molara Wood The African Liberation Support Campaign Network (ALISC) is a democratic organisation led by Africans fighting oppression and tyranny in Africa, and racism in the West. The ALISC tackles issues such as the ‘debt’ of African nations being outweighed by the huge profits Western nations have made from Africa, and that what remains of the so-called debt is the accumulated compound interest on non-existent capital.

    10.15pm: Live performance from INEMO. Inemo Samiama describes himself as representing a new generation of African musicians. From his earliest years Inemo was shaped and influenced by music. His father taught him to play, and at the age of 18 he formed the group Jah Stix with Majek Fashek. His debut album ‘Bushman’ (Mercury/Universal) mixed African melodies with techno, hip-hop, jungle, dub and ambient sounds. After three years of composing, recording and traveling between London, Paris and Africa, Inemo is back with his latest album, 'Afro Funky Beats'.

    Plus special guest PA from BLAK TWANG. Over a decade has passed since UK Hip Hop legend Blak Twang's first ever foray into the British music scene. His most recent single is the head pounding, socially driven 'Help Dem Lord' from his forthcoming album 'Speakin From Xperience'. Born to Nigerian parents and growing up in South London, he is undoubtedly a pioneer of Hip Hop maintaining an infallible recognition of his roots in cultivating his own identity.

    11.30pm-12.30: DJ ILKAGerman born and raised, but South London based for more than 15 years now, Ilka started djing in 2005 and has since played at venues such as Big Chill House, Momo's, The Spitz, Darbucka and the Arcola Theatre. Her selection includes all things funky and African such as Coupe Decale, Kwaito, Afrobeat, Zouglou, Soukous, Naija Pop and more, but also the occasional Soca, Dancehall and Champeta as well as other global beats. Ilka is the content editor of the BBC's African music site Africa On Your Street and she manages UK-based Nigerian Hip Hop group JJC & 419 Squad and Lagos- based Reggae artist African China.

    • Time: 7.00pm onwards
    • Admission: free
    • Address: 55 Penton Street, Angel, London N1 9PZ
    • Nearest station: Angel
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  • Angels Choir

    • Music
    • 19 October 2007
    • Tower Arts Centre
    • Winchester

    Twenty gifted children aged between 8 - 16 from Kaduna in Nigeria, West Afrca make up the ANGELS choir. In October they will be embarking on their debut tour, aiming to unite cultures, youthful enthusiasm and diversity as well as raising much needed funds to support their communities.

    When you listen to the ANGELS sing they invariably give cause for silent reflection. Back in Nigeria these children and their families suffer constantly at the hands of poverty and disease, stealing the lives of friends and family before they are given a chance to blossom into Africa's new generation.

    However the ANGELS wish to look towards a brighter future. When they burst into song, their voices soar with passion and hope, holding audiences spellbound with their charm and charisma.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £8/£7 concessions/£6 members
    • Box Office: 01962 867986
    • Address: Romsey Road, Winchester, Hampshire SO22 5PW
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  • Sidi Goma: Black Sufis of Gujarat @ World Music Festival

    • Music
    • 19 October 2007
    • Whitby Pavilion
    • North Yorkshire

    The mysterious, little known Sidis are the descendants of Africans who travelled across the Indian Ocean from East Africa to India over the last 1000 years. As Sufi Muslim devotees to an African saint and symbolic ancestor, their sacred songs praise the gift of joy he collected on his mythical journey.

    Sharing this sacred gift through their music and dance is their divine calling and life-affirming talent. The exuberant energy and joyful presence Sidi Goma bring to the stage is captivating and powerful, taking their fascinating and unique African-Indian heritage out to light of the world.

    • Time: 8.00pm
    • Tickets: £27/£24/£13
    • Box Office: 0845 373 2760
    • Address: Whitby, North Yorkshire
     
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  • Nuru Kane and The Bayefall Gnawa

    • Music
    • 19 October 2007
    • The North Wall Arts Centre
    • Oxford

    Nuru Kane was born and raised in Medina, Dakar, and his distinctive take on Senegalese music explores the connections between the music of North and West Africa. A blend of rhythms and colours of traditional music and Oriental and European sounds influence his blues--led songs, and his performances are unhindered, unrestricted and full of musical surprises. Expect electric results from this extraordinarily gifted and engaging character!

    There's a plethora of talented Senegalese singer-songwriters around at the moment, but fw have the musical breadth of Nuru Kane. Starting out playing good-time party mbalaz (think early Youssou N'Dour), he had a rethink after visiting Marrakech. THe result is trance-like gnawa meets Senegalese soul, meets Malian blues, meets Fela Kuti with a touch of Bob Marley.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £13.50/£9 conc
    • Box Office: 01865 305305
    • Address: The North Wall Arts Centre, Oxford OX2 7NN
     
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  • Kasai Masai (Congo)

    • Music
    • 19 October 2007
    • St Ethelburga's Centre for Reconciliation & Peace
    • London

    This 5-piece Congolese band deliver infectious traditional rhythms with a modern twist. Ancestral music, rooted in the healing power of percussion and chanting, with Congolese folk guitar, sax and bass. Expect dancing!

    Based in London and led by Voodoo King Nickens Nkoso, Kasaï Masaï brings us the traditional sound of the most remote equatorial villages with a Urban Twist. Named after a river, Kasai lies in the heart of the rain forest where many tribes such as the Pygmies still maintain their traditional lifestyles. The Masai, just like the Baka, are another dignified tribe whose lives still centre around a nomadic existence.

    • Time: 7.00pm - 11.00pm
    • Tickets: £11
    • Information: 0207 7496 1610
    • Address: 78 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AG
    • Nearest station: Liverpool Street
     
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  • HOME AGAIN: Songs and Stories from the Caribbean & Africa

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 19 October 2007
    • The Tramshed
    • London

    Home Again is an original programme of songs and stories performed by African and Caribbean elders and local school children. The elders have been working with the children, sharing their songs and the stories and memories associated with those songs.

    The performances are a culmination of this work, which has explored memories of the elders’ home cultures and their experience of growing old far from ‘home’. Performances feature members of Ajoda African Elders Group and COFA, the Caribbean Over-50s Association.

    Presented by European Reminiscence Network.

    • Time: 11.00am and 1.30pm
    • Box Office: 0208 854 9900
    • Address: 51-53 Woolwich New Road, London SE18 6ES
    • Nearest station: Woolwich Arsenal
     
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  • Best of Nigeria Expo 2007

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 19-20 October 2007
    • Excel
    • London

    The true story of the Nigeria’s Excellence, Expertise and Enterprise cannot be appreciated without it being witnessed in true and practical terms. This year’s Best of Nigeria Expo will create an opportunity for visitors to appreciate the remarkable and ingenious quality of Nigerians. This will be showcased in Science and Technology, Enterprise, Historical relics, Music, Filming, Fashion and Arts.

    • Time: 12.00pm - 6.00pm
    • Box Office: 0845 257 4008
    • Enquiries: info@bestofnigeria.co.uk
    • Address: 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London E16 1XL
    • Nearest station: Canning Town
     
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  • Kekele (Congo)

    • Music
    • 19 October 2007
    • Southport Arts Centre
    • Southport

    Kekele, the Congolese answer to Cuba's Buena Vista Social Club, are survivors from that era [60s]; now based in Paris and mostly in their 50s, they are still cheery and on good form, and are enjoying a new lease of life as musicians. From the first note, the audience is seduced by percolating percussion, honeyed voices and glorious guitars.

    A homage to the sultry Cuban grooves that beat in partnership with rhythms of the Congo, the music is ardent, playful and mature, delivered by an unbeatable roster of veteran performers including Nyboma Mwan Dido, Syran Mbenza, Loko Massengo, Bumba Massa and Wuta-Mayi plus five piece band.

    • Time: 8.00pm
    • Tickets: £10/ £8 concessions + booking fee
    • Box Office: 01704 540011
    • Address: Lord Street, Southport PR8 1DB
     
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  • Sidi Goma: Black Sufis of Gujarat

    • Music
    • 20 October 2007
    • Wesley Memorial Church
    • Oxford

    The mysterious, little known Sidis are the descendants of Africans who travelled across the Indian Ocean from East Africa to India over the last 1000 years. As Sufi Muslim devotees to an African saint and symbolic ancestor, their sacred songs praise the gift of joy he collected on his mythical journey.

    Sharing this sacred gift through their music and dance is their divine calling and life-affirming talent. The exuberant energy and joyful presence Sidi Goma bring to the stage is captivating and powerful, taking their fascinating and unique African-Indian heritage out to light of the world.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £13.50/£9 conc
    • Box Office: 01865 305305
    • Address: New Inn Hall Street, Oxford OX1 2DH
     
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  • Somali Week Festival

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 20-28 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    Oxford House in partnership with a range of community organisations is pleased to present the Somali Week Festival part of Black History Month. This prestigious Festival will feature poetry recitals and cultural presentations by famous and legendary Somali poets such as Mazamed Zaashi Dhamac known as 'Gaarriye', Maxamed Ibrahim Warsame known as 'Hadraawi' and many more.

    There will be music and cultural shows from a spectrum of talented performers such as Ahmed Ismail Hussein "Hudaydi" and Abdifatah Yare. This festival will also showcase two new theatrical plays; the Family Matters Drama "Sidaan moodaayay waxbaa ka sokeeya" and a 'Romeo in the City' production which merges Shakespeare and contemporary Britain in a story of loyalty, rivalry, hatred and desire, set within the Somali and Pakistani communities.

    Somali Week Festival brings a unique and fascinating range of events such as symposia regarding Somali Language, Poetry and Literature, conference on youth issues and many other eclectic topical discussions.

    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Somali Week Festival: Opening Festival

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 20 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    Rageh Omaar invites you to join him for the inaugural ceremony with Hassan Ganey to oepn Somali Week festival.

    Rt Hon Jim Fitzpatrick MP , for Poplar and Canning Town, will launch Somali week Festival with an opening speech. Famous Somali playwright, song-writer and poet Hassan Ganey will recite from his poetry which will take the audience on a journey into the mysterious and colourful domain of Somali culture.

    In addition to this the day will feature a performance by Ahmed Ismail Hussein "Hudaydi" and Ahmed Ali Harun "Dararamle" performing the traditional Somali instrument called the lute. There will also be a book launch of Silent Voiceswhich is an anthology of writings in English by unpublished and contemporary British Somali Writers.

    Silent Voicesincludes the following writers and the work: Zahrah Awaleh: 'Daughter of Diaspora', Shafi Said: 'The Lost Pariah', Adam Dirir: 'We Are Not Invisible', Abdi Bahdon: 'The Noble Savage', Laila Ali Egge: 'Letter To The Horn'.

    • Time: 2.00pm - 5.30pm
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Somali Week Festival: Aweys Khamiis, Nimo Yasin & Jookhle

    • Music
    • 20 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    Chill out with mind blowing performances by Aweys Khamiis Abdalla, Nimco Yasin Caraale and Jookhle. In the 1960s, when Aweys was a young boy, he made his first guitar called a shareero, by attaching a straw and two wooden sticks.

    In 1972, he was part part of the music band which accompanied the folklore dancers that represented Somalia at the 1972 East African Music Festival in Arusha, Tanzania, in which they won first place. He has been playing ever since. It promises to be dynamic and breathtaking event.

    • Time: 7.00pm - 10.30pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Traces of trade: Britain and the West Indies

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 20 October 2007
    • Victoria and Albert Museum
    • London

    Find out why, by the late 18th century, Britain owned most of the successful West Indian colonies and how this power was reinforced when France lost its most important colony, Saint-Domingue (Western Hispaniola, now Haiti) to a slave revolt in 1791 led by Toussaint Louverture.

    • Time: 3.00pm - 4.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0207 942 2211
    • Address: Cromwell Road London SW7 2RL
    • Nearest station: South Kensington
     
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  • Affirmation

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 20 October 2007
    • Khalili Lecture Theatre, School of Oriental and African Studies
    • London

    A day of African animation from various countries, varying in style, technique and content. This screening showcases some of the old masters such as Alasane alongside contemporary artists and animators whose practices vary from 3D CG animation, to stopmotion, experimental, and traditional cell animation.

    The programme includes a retrospective of the works of Congolese Jean Michel Kibushi, and will end with a Q&A and discussion with the artist himself. A great opportunity that should not be missed!

    • Time: 12.00pm - 5.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Address: Thornhaugh Street, Russel Square, London WC1H 0XG
    • Nearest station: Russel Square
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  • Somali Week Festival: Poetry Recital with Hassan Ganey and Hadraawi

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 21 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    This is a wonderful chance to participate at a Somali poetry recital with the greatest living Somali poet Mahamed Ibrahim Warsame "Hadraawi" . Hadraawi will treat the audience to a reciting of some of his invaluable work, while Hassan Ganey will complement this gala event by reading selected parts of his magnificent poetic production. Hassan Ganey is in the forefront of the most popular contemporary Somali poets. Apart from his prolific literary production, he possesses admirable personal characteristic traits.

    Their recitals will be followed by a 'question and answers' session, chaired by Yousuf Garad , the head of BBC Somali Section and Ibrahim Yusuf Hawd , a promising writer who is the author of Anaddii Nageeyaand has published many articles on diverse issues. Hadraawi and Ganey together with fellow poets Abdilaahi Bootaan and Ali Seenyo, will be joined by other prominent guests and emerging artists to discuss their work.

    The event will close with a performance from Abdifatah Yare, a new arrival to the music scene and extremely popular with the younger generation. It is promising to be unforgettable experience in an atmosphere which lets you unwind.

    • Time: 2.00pm - 6.00pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • L'Afrique a Newcastle: The Last King Of Scotland (15)+ Zulu Dancing

    • Film
    • 21 October 2007
    • Tyneside Cinema
    • Gateshead

    Another chance to see Forest Whitaker’s breathtaking performance as Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. James McAvoy stars as a young Scottish Doctor who becomes his personal advisor and witnesses a country’s descent into chaos and murder. Based on Giles Foden’s novel. Directed by Kevin McDonald.

    The film will be preceded by a performance of Zulu dancing by Amabutho African Arts

    L’Afrique en Angleterre is a not-for profit company established in 2003. Its name symbolises its desire to bring new forms of culture to the UK (L'Afrique en Angleterre is french for Africa in England). Their flagship event is the L'Afrique a Newcastle (Africa in Newcastle) Festival, aiming to celebrate and showcase African arts, promote understanding of the African continent and through the arts, to support the development of strong community relations.

    • Time: 12.30pm
    • TIckets: £5.50
    • Information: 0191 232 8289
    • Enquiries: manoute@lafriqueanewcastle.com
    • Address: Old Town Hall, Gateshead
     
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  • L'Afrique a Newcastle: Remembering Slavery. Sankofa (15) and ‘Abolition…?’

    • Film
    • 22 October 2007
    • Lipman Theatre
    • Newcastle

    A rare chance to see Ethiopian Director Haile Gerima’s film Sankofa that examines the impact of slavery on Africans and Black people today. The film will be preceded by a performance of the play ‘Abolition…?’ presented by superflyrico.com and Jambo Africa. ‘Abolition…?’ explores issues surrounding the Atlantic slave trade through Acrobatics, breakdancing and Capoeira.

    L’Afrique en Angleterre is a not-for profit company established in 2003. Its name symbolises its desire to bring new forms of culture to the UK (L'Afrique en Angleterre is french for Africa in England). Their flagship event is the L'Afrique a Newcastle (Africa in Newcastle) Festival, aiming to celebrate and showcase African arts, promote understanding of the African continent and through the arts, to support the development of strong community relations.

    • Time: 6.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0191 226 3612
    • Enquiries: manoute@lafriqueanewcastle.com
    • Address: Lipman Building, Northumbria University, Sandyford Road, Newcastle
     
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  • Somali Week Festival: Book Launch Review of Anaddii Naseeyeby Ibrahim Yusuf Hawd & Roundtable - The Somali Language in the 21st Century

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 23 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    Introduction by M D Afrah , Chair of the Somali-speaking Centre of International PEN. The organisation was founded in London in early 1997 and membership of the Somali PEN is open to all Somali-speaking authors, editors, artistic creators and translators who subscribe to its objectives. Given the special circumstances surrounding the Somali creative community being scattered all over the world since outbreak of the armed conflict in Somalia in 1990, the members of the centre currently live in different countries.

    The roundtable will bring together a number of prominent scholars, educationalists and students from both the Diaspora and back home. It will take the form of panel discussions designed to lead to practical recommendations to be distributed to all concerned, including Somali authorities, Diaspora organisations and friends of the Somali people everywhere.

    The panellist will include Yusuf Hassan (Sweden), Mahamed Hashi Dhamac Gaarriye (Somaliland), Jama Muse Jama (italy) and Hassan Sheekh Mumin (Norway).

    • Time: 6.00pm - 10.30pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Tunde Jegede (Gambia)

    • Music
    • 23 October 2007
    • St Ethelburga's Centre for Reconciliation & Peace
    • London

    Tunde Jegede is a composer and multi-instrumentalist who is uniquely placed between the worlds of Contemporary Classical, African and Pop music. He is a prolific Producer/Song writer and has worked across several genres both as a performer (Cello, Kora, Piano and Percussion) and producer.

    Tunde's apprenticeship in African music began in 1978 and was further developed in 1982 when he first went to the Gambia to study the ancient Griot tradition of West Africa, with Amadu Bansang Jobarteh, Master of the Kora (West African Harp-Lute). The Jobarteh family are one of five principle musician families within this unique hereditary Oral tradition, which dates back to at least the 13th century.

    • Time: 7.00pm - 11.00pm
    • Tickets: £11
    • Information: 0207 7496 1610
    • Address: 78 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AG
    • Nearest station: Liverpool Street
     
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  • L'Afrique a Newcastle: Darrat (PG)

    • Film
    • 23 October 2007
    • Tyneside Cinema
    • Gateshead

    A dark story of revenge from Chadian writer-director Mahamat Saleh Haroun using Chad’s civil war as its background. Following a government Amnesty a young man sets out to track down the man who murdered his father.

    L’Afrique en Angleterre is a not-for profit company established in 2003. Its name symbolises its desire to bring new forms of culture to the UK (L'Afrique en Angleterre is french for Africa in England). Their flagship event is the L'Afrique a Newcastle (Africa in Newcastle) Festival, aiming to celebrate and showcase African arts, promote understanding of the African continent and through the arts, to support the development of strong community relations.

    • Time: 6.00pm
    • TIckets: £5.50
    • Information: 0191 232 8289
    • Enquiries: manoute@lafriqueanewcastle.com
    • Address: Old Town Hall, Gateshead
     
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  • Gua Africa Presents: Mixed Jam

    • Music
    • 23 October 2007
    • The 100 Club
    • London

    A performance by acclaimed hip hop rapper Emmanuel Jal. An ex-child soldier, he was taken from his family home in 1987 aged seven, and sent to fight with the rebel army in Sudan's bloody civil war. Emmanuel has won an American Gospel award and community service award in Kenya for his work promoting peace among young people.

    The event will be hosted by multi-talented Ugandan beauty Mirembe Campbell and X-FACTOR star Chico. Other acts include veteran hip hop Star Blakc Twang, singer and songwriter Ayak and croatian musical child prodigy Nika.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £12 advance/ £15 on the door
    • Box Office: www.wegottickets.com
    • Address: 100 Oxford Street, London W1D 1LL
    • Nearest station: Oxford Circus
     
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  • Poetry Writing Workshops for Refugees and Exhiles

    • Music
    • 23 October 2007
    • Finsbury Library
    • London

    Where do you come from, what is your identity? If you are interested in writing poems about your life experiences and what it is like to be exiled in a new country, do come along and be encouraged to find a way into writing. All welcome.

    Poetry Writing Workshops with poet and workshop facilitator: Lynette Craig holds an MPhil in Writing; she mentors exiled writers and leads workshops for both beginners and more experienced writers. Her own writing reflects her interest in the dispossessed, the persecution and exile.

    This event is free however please book by emailing the following addres: Jennifer@exiledwriters.fsnet.co.uk

    • Time: 11.00am - 1.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Address: 245 St John Street, Islington London EC1V 4NB
    • Nearest station: Angel
     
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  • Intro to Nitro: Black History Month

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 23-26 October 2007
    • Greenwich Theatre
    • London

    Nitro, Britain’s leading Black Music Theatre company celebrates Black History Month 2007 and a new creative partnership with Greenwich Theatre with An Intro to Nitro – three new music theatre shows, featuring two UK premiere productions.

    An African Cargo written by Margaret Busby, focuses on the repercussions following the brutal killing of 130 slaves thrown into the sea from the slave ship Zong. The show is powered by choral mix of evocative songs from West Africa, the Caribbean and Southern USA. An Evening of Soul Food teams together American chef Charita Jones and stand-up comic Curtis Walker serving up the story of soul food in an evening of music, comedy and culinary delights. Gospel to Gospel delivers an uplifting journey through Gospel music, from its early traditions to the contemporary sounds of urban Soul, featuring guest groups and singers from some of London’s finest outfits.

    • Time: 1.30pm & 8.00pm
    • Box Office: 0208 858 7755
    • Address: Croms Hill, London SE10 8ES
    • Nearest stations: Greenwich and Cutty Sark
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  • Intro to Nitro: An Evening of Soul Food

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 23 October 2007
    • Greenwich Theatre
    • London

    Charita Jones - aka Momma Cherri - is the leader of a culinary revolution at ‘Momma Cherri’s Soul Food Shack’, down by the sea in Brighton. One of the great success stories since she appeared on the Gordon Ramsey TV series, Kitchen Nightmares, Momma Cherri (author of Momma Cherri’s Soul in a Bowl Cookbook) is now recognised as a ‘celebrity chef’ in her own right, dishing up African-American cuisine at its sumptuous best.

    In An Evening of Soul Food - the first in a series of musical comedy cookery - Jones cooks up an entertaining soul food storm live on stage, telling the story of soul food’s roots to her co-host the ‘Don’ of comedy, Curtis Walker, one of black comedy's biggest hitters and winner of the Best Male Stand-up in the Black International Comedy Awards. Accompanied by singing group, NitroVox, this show serves up a tantalizing feast for all the senses, including the taste buds, with culinary treats available for sampling.

    • Time: 8.00pm
    • Tickets: £12
    • Box Office: 0208 858 7755
    • Address: Croms Hill, London SE10 8ES
    • Nearest stations: Greenwich and Cutty Sark
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  • Joy Guy

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 23-30 October 2007
    • Soho Theatre
    • London

    'They hate us; they hate us because we are pure. Because we were not stupid enough to get caught, and taken away in chains.'

    An exciting, moving, unmissable exploration of celebrity, identity and the tensions between African and Caribbean communities in Britain. Produced in association with The New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich and Soho Theatre, London.

    Cast: Syan Blake, Michael Brogan, Heather Craney, Joseph Morgan, Pippa Nixon, Alexis Rodney, Abdul Salis, Mo Sesay

    • Time: 4.00pm & 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £7.45 - £20
    • Box Office: 0870 429 6883
    • Address: Dean Street, London W1D 3NE
    • Nearest station: Leicester Square
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  • FWords: Creative Freedom with Guest Caryl Phillips

    • Film
    • 23 October 2007
    • Carriageworks Theatre
    • London

    FWords presents new work from 6 writers and 2 visual artists of African and Asian descent, from Yorkshire at a special one off event. Everyone who attends receives a free copy of the FWords anthology with an introduction by Caryl Phillips and a set of limited edition postcards of the work of Seyi Ogunjobi and Fosuah Andoh.

    FWords is a project devised by Arts Council England Yorkshire who asked these selected writers to respond to the theme of Freedom. The work of the visual artists is a response to the writer's work.

    • Time:1.00pm onwards
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0208 223 2884
    • Address: Millenium Square, Leeds, LS1
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  • Somali Week Festival: Breaking the Silence; the Voices of Somali Women with the great Maryan Mursal

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 24 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    This is a new exiled lit cafe event with Somali and other exiled writers and musicians, which takes place every 2 months and brings the work of Somali and other exiled writer to the wider community London, this evening there will be a focus on Somali women writers and musicians.

    Maryan Mursal began singing as a teenager in Mogadishu in 1966. As one of the first female singers become successful as a member of Waaberi band. After the civil war she and her young family walked out of Mogadishu, through Ethiopia, re-crossing Somali again and eventually arriving in Djibouti where she was luckily given asylum by the Danish embassy. Maryan is unique as she is one of the few Somali artists to have two real world albums on her own name.

    Zahrah Awaleh is British-Somali; her work includes; a chapter "Daughter of Diaspora" of newly published book the "Silent Voices".

    Keena-Diid Caynaane was born in Mogadishu and came to Britain in 1993 as a refugee fleeing from Somalia. She works for an NGO and writes literature on the life of Somali immigrants. She recounts beautifully observed narratives on London life.

    • Time: 7.00pm - 9.30pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Then To Now

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 24 October 2007
    • Harrow Civic Centre
    • Harrow

    A specially composed musical piece, performed by Africanus Britanicus featuring HKB Finn & Co., will tell the story of slavery from Africa to the so-called New World and the legacy found across the African Diaspora. The piece, which mixes traditional African instrumentation and vocals with modern beats and rock guitars, alongside spoken word/rap by HKB Finn, will be premiered during the Abolition Truths.

    This is a panel-led talks programme that highlights the African role that led to the abolition of the slave trade, with a special emphasis on the role of African freedom fighters and Abolitionists, the Haiti revolution and the revolts, campaigns, and the boycotts leading to the passing of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act in 1807.

    This event is free, but pre-booking is necessary. Email info@btwsc.com with 'Booking for Abolition Truths' in the subject line.

    • Time: 6.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0208 450 5987
    • Address: Council Chamber, Station Road, Harrow HA1 2XF
    • Nearest station: Harrow-on-the-Hill
     
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  • Abolition Truths

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 24 October 2007
    • Harrow Civic Centre
    • Harrow

    Abolition Truths is a panel-led Talks and Q&A session, interspersed with a specially composed musical piece and poetry performance, on the Abolition of the slave trade with special emphasis on the role of African freedom fighters and Abolitionists, the Haiti revolution and the revolts, campaigns, and the boycotts leading to the passing of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act in 1807. The talk will highlight the fact that the 1807 Act did not seek to abolish slavery, and that the Abolition of Slavery Act was not passed until 1833. The distinction of chattel slavery, the issue of resilience and the need for people of African descent to re-engage with the African identity will be highlighted.

    Panellists include Ms Serwah (BTWSC/NewAfricanPerspective), Kwaku (Black Music Congress/ NewAfricanPerspective) and Dr Lez Henry (Nu-Beyond).

    A specially composed musical piece performed by Africanus Britanicus featuring HKB Finn & Co., will tell the story of slavery from Africa to the so-called New World and the legacy found across the African diaspora. The teenaged poet Stefan Testsola will perform a poem on the Abolition theme. Also, a presentation will be made to the Prof Allotey Science Prize short-list of Harrow students of African descent.

    Admission to this event is free however pre-booking is required, and this can be done via info@btwsc.com with: booking for Abolition Truths as the subject line.

    • Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: info@btwsc.com
    • Address: Station Road, Harrow HA1
    • Nearest station: Great Portland Street
     
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  • Kekele (Congo)

    • Music
    • 24 October 2007
    • Brighton Dome
    • Brighton

    Kekele, the Congolese answer to Cuba's Buena Vista Social Club, are survivors from that era [60s]; now based in Paris and mostly in their 50s, they are still cheery and on good form, and are enjoying a new lease of life as musicians. From the first note, the audience is seduced by percolating percussion, honeyed voices and glorious guitars.

    A homage to the sultry Cuban grooves that beat in partnership with rhythms of the Congo, the music is ardent, playful and mature, delivered by an unbeatable roster of veteran performers including Nyboma Mwan Dido, Syran Mbenza, Loko Massengo, Bumba Massa and Wuta-Mayi plus five piece band.

    • Time: 8.00pm
    • Tickets: £12.50/ £10 concessions
    • Box Office: 01273 709709
    • Address: Church Street, Brighton
     
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  • In His Shadow

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 25 October 2007
    • The Drum
    • Birmingham

    Take a journey into Africa with In his Shadow a breathtaking tale fusing theatre, music and dance in a poignant account of life in a small village in present day Africa. With the help of a sorcerer, Kanikki is chosen to go to England in the hope that he will return with new skills to uplift his village.

    This performance will be followed by explosive music from Afro jazz group Crossroad Collision who have been enthralling audiences with a rhythm and energy that pushes you out of your seat and makes you move. Marrying energetic traditional African drumming with the enigmatic vie of the Kora and strong jazz rhythms.

    In His Shadow is performed by Dunia Yetu, Crossroad Collssion is led by Steve Yimga.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £8.50
    • Box Office: 0121 333 2444
    • Address: 144 Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham B6 4UU
     
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  • Somali Week Festival: Family Matters - Drama & Youth Conference

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 25 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    Giving the opening speech to this day's events will be Ken Livingston, Mayor of London

    Premiere of "Sidaan moodaayay waxbaa ka sokeeya". Performance of a cutting-edge new play. Written specifically for Somali Week Festival, it aims to deliver a new approach and inshight into the Young Somali Community.

    Bursting with fresh ideas, it is a youth conference like no other you will have attended before. Oxford House, in conjunction with London Metropolitan University, conduction an in-depth research looking at the needs of Somali's new generation.

    The conference will focus on the latest findings from the focus groups through presentations from the field workers and some of the young people themselves. Notably The Youth Forum from New Avenues Youth & Community Project will help run and facilitate a variety of workshops will then allow participants to discuss these findings to add their won voices to debate.

    Lunch will be served at 1pm

    • Time: 10.00am - 4.00pm
    • Tickets: £10
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Somali Week Festival: Family Matter Drama and discussions

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 25 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    The Rt Hon Kerry McCarthy MP, Bristol East will give an opening speech of the second part of the day.

    The play "Sidaan moodaayay waxbaaka sokeeya" has beencreated using research material gathered following months of workshops and interviews with young Somalis. After the play there will be a discussion hosted by Dr Dadumo Abdi, where there will be a chance for those who weren't able to attend the earlier youth conference to discuss the research behind the play and its implications.

    • Time: 7.00pm - 10.00pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • In2Africa

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 25 October 2007
    • The Drum
    • Birmingham

    Take a journey into Africa with In his Shadow a breathtaking tale fusing theatre, music and dance in a poignant account of life in a small village in present day Africa. With the help of a sorcerer, Kanikiki is chosen to go to England in the hope that he will return with new skills to uplift his village.

    This performance will be followed by explosive music from Afro jazz group Crossroad Collision who have been enthralling audiences with a rhythm and energy that pushes you out of your seat and makes you move. Marrying energetic traditional African drumming with the enigmatic vibe of the Kora and strong jazz rhythms.

    In His Shadow is performed by Dunia Yetu, Crossroad Collission is led by Steve Yimga.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £8.50
    • Box Office: 0121 333 2400
    • Address: 144 Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham B6 4UU
     
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  • Africa In Motion 2007

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 25-31 October 2007
    • Edinburgh

    After the massive success of last year's festival we bring you another fantastic programme of more than 30 brilliant films from all over the continent - features, documentaries and shorts - spanning more than half a century of filmmaking in Africa. You will see depictions of the expansive panoramas of rural Africa alongside the dense urban landscapes of modern Africa, experience the richness and diversity of African histories, cultures and traditions, and hear stories of struggles and victories - told with humour, passion and creativity.

    AiM 2007 is dedicated to the memory of Senegalese director Ousmane Sembene, often hailed as "the father of African cinema", who passed away in June this year at the age of 84. A highly political artist, his films were often fired by anger at injustice but were also comic, moving and beautifully crafted. We are screening two of his greatest films - Xala (the opening film of the festival) and Black Girl.

    The festival has three further thematic strands: The Bicentenary of the Abolition of the British Slave Trade is celebrated by a number of screenings and other events; AiM has a spotlight on Ghana to mark 50 years of independence from Britain; and we have a focus on women directors - a not-to-be missed opportunity to see three pioneering classics and the UK premieres of two contemporary films by female filmmakers.

    Several directors will be in attendance to talk to audiences after screenings, and brief introductions before screenings will put the films in context. A range of talks and discussions will further enhance screenings. Filmhouse café bar will host performances by African musicians and an exhibition by internationally acclaimed Nigerian cartoonist Tayo Fatunla. Books, posters and DVDs will be for sale in the foyer for the duration of the festival.

    • Box Office: 0131 228 2688
    • Enquiries: info@africa-in-motion.org.uk
     
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  • Kekele (Congo)

    • Music
    • 25 October 2007
    • Quay Arts
    • Isle of Wight

    Kekele, the Congolese answer to Cuba's Buena Vista Social Club, are survivors from that era [60s]; now based in Paris and mostly in their 50s, they are still cheery and on good form, and are enjoying a new lease of life as musicians. From the first note, the audience is seduced by percolating percussion, honeyed voices and glorious guitars.

    A homage to the sultry Cuban grooves that beat in partnership with rhythms of the Congo, the music is ardent, playful and mature, delivered by an unbeatable roster of veteran performers including Nyboma Mwan Dido, Syran Mbenza, Loko Massengo, Bumba Massa and Wuta-Mayi plus five piece band.

    • Time: 7.00pm
    • Tickets: £12/ £11
    • Box Office: 01983 822 490
    • Address: Sea Street, Newport Harbour, Isle of Wight PO 30 5BD
     
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  • Halily, by Hakim Onitolo

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 25 October 2007
    • 198
    • London

    A performance exploring the exoticisation and objectification of the Black body in visual arts and literature.

    The event is free, but booking is required. Please contact 198

    • Time: 7.00pm - 8.00pm
    • Booking: 0207 978 8309
    • Admission: free
    • Address: Contemporary Arts and Learning, 198 Railton Road, SE24 OJT
    • Nearest station: Brixton
     
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  • Intro to Nitro: An African Cargo

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 25-26 October 2007
    • Greenwich Theatre
    • London

    Written by award-winning Margaret Busby (writer, journalist, publisher), An African Cargo marks the bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act, and presents a powerful new music theatre production based on the transcripts and reports from the 1783 legal hearings concerning the slave ship Zong.

    In 1781, whilst heading to Jamaica overladen with captured Africans, the slave ship lost its way in the Caribbean Sea. With diminishing water supplies and many of his slaves sick and dying, the Captain decided to throw most of the Africans overboard and to claim on the insurance on the basis of loss of ‘cargo’ – a moment in history captured in Turner’s evocative painting ‘The Slave Ship’. Two years later, in an astonishing series of events, the insurance company, battling to avoid payment, claimed that African slaves were not ‘cargo’ but actual human beings. In an unprecedented court ruling, the stage was set for the abolition of the slave trade.

    Directed by Felix Cross and Musical Director Allyson Devenish, An African Cargo is performed by a cast of five actor and singers: Angela M Caesar, Rolan Bell, Josie Benson, Julie Hewlett, Trevor A Toussaint, Charlie Folorunsho and Jeffery Kissoon.

    • Time: 1.30pm & 8.00pm
    • Tickets: £18, £16, £14 / mats £16, £14, £12
    • Box Office: 0208 858 7755
    • Address: Croms Hill, London SE10 8ES
    • Nearest stations: Greenwich and Cutty Sark
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  • Man Dem Nor Glady'O

    • Film
    • 25 October 2007
    • West Building Lecture Theatre WB.G.02
    • London

    Sierra Leone recently emerged from a 12-year civil war which claimed the lives of thousands and was hallmarked by arbitrary amputations of civilians. Although peace has now come to the country, many of the root causes to the confl ict still remain: poverty, corruption, poor sanitation and bad governance. Ishmahil Blagrove, Jr. speaks to the key players in Sierra Leone’s future and questions whether or not this peace can really last.

    The documentary is a graphic view of Sierra Leone from the inside. It destroys the Western notion of “Blood Diamonds” and exposes how the mineral wealth of this poor West African country is being exploited by foreigners and corrupt politicians.

    Producer/Director: Ishmahil Blagrove, Jr. Edited by: Catherine Arend Duration: 57 minutes Language: Creole/English. Followed by panel discussion.

    • Time:12.00pm - 2.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0208 223 2884
    • Address: UEL Docklands Campus
    • Nearest station: Cyprus DLR
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  • Tell Tarra "In Our Own Words II" - Oh So We Do It

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 25-26 October 2007
    • The Albany
    • London

    Tell Tarra in association with Level 7 Media and The Albany present "In Our Own Words II" - London's Premier Black Writers' Festival Celebrating the UK's Finest Playwrights.

    The festival will open with a bang with a contribution by award-winning playwright Kwame Kwei-Armah. Followed by feisty, challenging and witty pieces penned by the UK's leading Black writers: Kofi Agyemang, Rex Obano, Paul Morris and Jeff Caffrey. Actress Petra Letang from BBC Eastenders will star.

    Tell Tarra (a Jamaican saying which means ‘telling stories’ or ‘tell another’) supports and promotes new writing for theatre and raises the profile of the unsung and gifted Black writers working in the industry, as well as celebrating the diversity and uniqueness of the lives of Black people in Britain.

    • Time: 7.30pm onwards
    • Tickets: £10/£5
    • Box Office: 0208 692 4446
    • Address: Douglas Way, London SE8 2AG
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  • Dilemma of a Ghost

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 26-27 October 2007
    • Barbican Theatre
    • Plymouth

    Passions explode where culturs collide in 21st century Africa

    When African-American Eulaline marries Ato, the sensitive and intelligent Ghanaian student she meets at university, she dreams that they will be "the sweetest and loveliest things in Africa and America rolled together". But when he brings her to Africa, the ghosts of the slave trade return to haunt the golden couple.

    Working with the National Theatre of Ghana, Border Crossings has brought togheter a world-class cast from two continents - including renowned Ghanaian musician Osei Korankye and Adeline Amam Buabeng, the formost Ghanaian actress of her generation. Modern beliefs mix uneasily with ancient values in this vital and vibrant production, which uses music, dance and the sheer physical exuberance of Ghana to celebrate 50 years of Ghana's independence and 200 years since the abolition of hte slave trade.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £9/ £6 concessions
    • Box Office: 01752 267131
    • Address: Castle street, Plymouth PL1 2NJ
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  • Somali Week Festival: Anglo-Somali Society

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 26 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    The Society brings together British and Somali people alongside people of other nationalities with an interest in a wide range of issues in relation to Somali affairs. There will be presentations and discussions.

    At this meeting, the panel's discussion will cover various issues including the roles of journalists working in broadcasting and for the press and the potential dangers they face in both Somalia and Somaliland. The main speakers will be a representative of Human Rights Watch , and Dr Martin Hill of Amnesty International as well as Yusuf Gaboobe of Haatuf .

    Members of the public are very welcome to attend as guests of the society. The cost includes a supper of halal curry chicken or vegetables, with rice and tea.

    • Time: 2.00pm - 6.00pm
    • Tickets: £7.50
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Somali Week Festival: Poetry Recital with Gaarriye and Hassan Sh. Mumin

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 26 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    The legendary Mahamed Hashi dama “Gaarriye” , whose poetry and experiences embrace an eclectic range of topics, will recite older and more recent works. This event will display the depth of the intellectual and artistic fusion for which this artist is justly famous.

    This spectacular recital will also be simultaneous highlighted by a prominent and a well established poet and playwright Hassan Sheik Mumin , famous for his highly acclaimed work such as Shabeel Naagood,throughout theSomali Society in the Horn of Africa. This event will also give us the opportunity to launch Gaarriye’s latest anthology of awe-inspiring poems. A purchase of the Book will be available on the day. Gaarriye will recite and his poetry will be translated by  Dr Martin Orwin

    • Time: 8.00pm - 11.00pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • SLAVERY

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 26 October 2007
    • The Drum
    • Birmingham

    In the bi-centenary of the abolition of the slave trade Tara Arts presents the UK premiere of Slavery, a phenomenal one act play by Jonathan Payne. The consequences of the slave trade are brought to life through the actual testimonials of American slaves, their music and passion for life. Drawn from interviews with former slaves this powerful drama combines personal testimony with Negro spirituals to create a remarkable sense of this dark time in history.

    ‘Slavery is the past reaching into the future and reminding the world from where it came. If history is destined to repeat itself, maybe this cycle is due to our ignorance of the past.’ Jonathan Payne

    Winner of the 2002 John Cauble short play award. Supported by Arts Council England. Age Restriction 14+

    • Time: 2.00pm & 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £8 (£6)
    • Box Office: 0121 333 2400
    • Address: 144 Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham B6 4UU
     
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  • The Great Black Music History Quiz

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 26 October 2007
    • Willesden Green Library Centre
    • London

    An entertaining multi-media evening for all the family with music, video and quiz based on information from the Brent Black Music History Project (BBMHP) DVD and booklet. Free prizes. Learn your local history, meet some local icons, plus special prizes for those that beat BBMHP leader Kwaku with their deep local music history knowledge!

    Admission to this event is free however pre-booking is required, and this can be done via editor@britishblackmusic.com

    • Time: 7.30pm - 9.30pm
    • Admission: free
    • Information: 0208 450 5987
    • Address: 95 High Road, London NW10 2SF
    • Nearest station: Willesden Green
     
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  • Kekele (Congo)

    • Music
    • 26 October 2007
    • St Paul's Centre
    • Cambridge

    Kekele, the Congolese answer to Cuba's Buena Vista Social Club, are survivors from that era [60s]; now based in Paris and mostly in their 50s, they are still cheery and on good form, and are enjoying a new lease of life as musicians. From the first note, the audience is seduced by percolating percussion, honeyed voices and glorious guitars.

    A homage to the sultry Cuban grooves that beat in partnership with rhythms of the Congo, the music is ardent, playful and mature, delivered by an unbeatable roster of veteran performers including Nyboma Mwan Dido, Syran Mbenza, Loko Massengo, Bumba Massa and Wuta-Mayi plus five piece band.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £12/ £14
    • Box Office: 019223 511511
    • Address: Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 1JP
     
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  • Cry My Zimbabwe

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 26-30 October 2007
    • Warehouse Theatre
    • Croydon

    Three Zimbabweans tell of their decision to leave Africa to try to start new lives in England. A high energy play - funny, moving and truthful. Please note: this play is unsuitable for children under 12 years old.

    Cast: Peter Mutanda, Kabelo Madonko, Edwin Mathe and Dingilizwe Ncube

    • Time: 5.00pm and 8.00pm
    • Information: info@warehousetheatre.co.uk
    • Address: Dingwall Road, Croydon CR0 2NF
    • Nearest station: East Croydon
     
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  • Tell Tarra "In Our Own Words II" - Off Da Cuff

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 26 October 2007
    • The Albany
    • London

    Tell Tarra in association with Level 7 Media and The Albany present "In Our Own Words II" - London's Premier Black Writers' Festival Celebrating the UK's Finest Playwrights.

    n explosive evening where four talented playwrights will produce new, fresh, original pieces created the very same day. Be prepared for some gritty urban tales with sharp dialogue by fearless writers Patricia Elcock, Victoria Evaristo, Karla Williams and Jesse Quinones. Starring Victor Romero-Evans from Channel 4’s “No Problem”. The evening will be rounded off by a performance from rnb singing sensation Tada.

    Tell Tarra (a Jamaican saying which means ‘telling stories’ or ‘tell another’) supports and promotes new writing for theatre and raises the profile of the unsung and gifted Black writers working in the industry, as well as celebrating the diversity and uniqueness of the lives of Black people in Britain.

    • Time: 7.30pm onwards
    • Tickets: £10/£5
    • Box Office: 0208 692 4446
    • Address: Douglas Way, London SE8 2AG
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  • Somali Week Festival: The "Magnificent Five"

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 27 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    This event is open-mic session with the four ambassadors of Somali culture, Ganey, Xasan sh. Mumun, Hadraawi, Aw-jamac Omar Isse and Gaarriye; offer an exciting opportunity to young artists and poets to join them in discussions and to present their work.

    • Time: 1.00pm - 6.00pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Somali Week Festival: Faduma Qasim & Aar

    • Music
    • 27 October 2007
    • Oxford House
    • London

    An extraordinary concert by Faduma Qasim. The Queen of live music has incredible vocals and and her songs evoke the tunes of her native Reer Hamar music. She will kick off our journey through the exotic Somali culture and will be accompanied by the newcomer Aar promising a fabulous Somali Live Music Showcase. Expect an unforgettable experience promising a smooth blend of melody and harmony.

    • Time: 7.00pm - 11.00pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0207 749 1140
    • Enquiries: ayan.mahamoud@oxfordhouse.org.uk
    • Address: Derbyshire street, Bethnal Green, London E2 6HG
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Battle of Ideas

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 27-28 October 2007
    • Royal College of Art
    • London

    The Battle of Ideas is a two-day festival of high-level, thought-provoking debate organised by the Institute of Ideas and hosted by the Royal College of Art.

    As part of this year's festival, speakers will include: Richard Dowden (director, Royal African Society), James Harding (Business & City Editor, The Times), Onyekachi Wambu (African Foundation for Development), Tony Vaux (author, Development and Humanitarianism: Practical Issues), Giles Bolton (author, Poor Story: An Insider Uncovers How Globalisation and Good Intentions Have Failed the World's Poor), Paul Collier (Professor of Economics, Oxford University; Director, Centre for the Study of African Economics; and author of The Bottom Billion).

    Key issues that will feature in discussions are:

    1. Saving Africa: The West’s new moral mission?

    2. Trade, aid or development?

    3. The new Silk Road or scramble for Africa: What does China mean for the sub-Saharan continent?

    Bigger than ever before, the festival features 70 debates, including 200 speakers debating the key issues of our time, forming what Professor Sir Bernard Crick calls “the most interesting, diverse, serious and argumentative audience imaginable”.

    To coincide with these debates, WORLDwrite's long awaited documentary Corruptababble will premiere at the festival. The film challenges conventional wisdom with upfront interviews and extraordinary and strident satire. Are corrupt greedy regimes and war lords so widespread? Should developing countries be monitored and measured for their application of “good governance” to stem supposed corrupt tendencies? Is poverty the product of third world gangsters, thieving politicians and corporate fraudsters? No, the film suggests, but our obsession with corruption is endemic and dangerous.

    • Time: 10.00am - 9.00pm
    • Tickets: £45/ £30/ £10
    • Information: 0207 269 9220
    • Address: Kensington Gore, London SW7 2EU
    • Nearest station: South Kensington
     
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  • FDC Young Designer Awards: Celebrating Multicultural design excellence

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 27 October 2007
    • Park Crescent Conference Centre International Students House
    • London

    This dynamic design award is the only national awards in the UK that has given young fashion designers, who are still studying for their fashion degrees, an opportunity to showcase in New York Fashion Week and Caribbean Fashion Week, to an audience of international Buyers, Fashion Editors, Press and Celebrities and work with a team of prominent fashion stylists, hair, make-up artists backstage and the same international models that walk the runway for the noted fashion houses such as Baby Phat, Calvin Klein, Donna Karen, Marc Jacobs, Luella Bartley and Tommy Hilfiger.

    Our designers have been catapulted straight from the Young Designer Awards right on to the international fashion stage. This year another talented designer will join them.

    • Time: 10.00am - 9.00pm
    • Tickets: £12.50 advance/ £15 on the door
    • Information: 07940 647 102 / 01960 845 877
    • Address: 229 Great Portland Street, Westminster W1W 5PN
    • Nearest station: Great Portland Street
     
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  • Kekele (Congo)

    • Music
    • 27 October 2007
    • Glossop Town Hall
    • Glossop

    Kekele, the Congolese answer to Cuba's Buena Vista Social Club, are survivors from that era [60s]; now based in Paris and mostly in their 50s, they are still cheery and on good form, and are enjoying a new lease of life as musicians. From the first note, the audience is seduced by percolating percussion, honeyed voices and glorious guitars.

    A homage to the sultry Cuban grooves that beat in partnership with rhythms of the Congo, the music is ardent, playful and mature, delivered by an unbeatable roster of veteran performers including Nyboma Mwan Dido, Syran Mbenza, Loko Massengo, Bumba Massa and Wuta-Mayi plus five piece band.

    • Time: 8.30pm
    • Tickets: £10 advance/ £12 on the door
    • Box Office: 01457 853821
    • Address: High Street West, Glossop
     
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  • Intro to Nitro: Gospel to Gospel

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 27 October 2007
    • Greenwich Theatre
    • London

    Nitro’s Gospel to Gospel unites three of London’s best-loved gospel choirs to present an evening of uplifting and inspiring music, embracing the old and the new.

    Contemporary urban gospel outfit The Company is renowned for its vibrant energy and eclectic musical style fusing R ‘n’ B, Hip-Hop and rock. The Company will headline the evening, supported by the Praise and Worship team directed by Devon Boyd; and Elements Ensemble performing traditional gospel favourites by artists such as Richard Smallwood and Walter Hawkins, directed by Joseph Roberts.

    • Time: 8.00pm
    • Tickets: £12
    • Box Office: 0208 858 7755
    • Address: Croms Hill, London SE10 8ES
    • Nearest stations: Greenwich and Cutty Sark
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  • The 12th Afro Hollywood Award

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 27 October 2007
    • Hilton London Metropole
    • London

    The most highly anticipated event in the African film calendar has finally arrived – The 12th Afro Hollywood Awards (aka the African Oscars)– Africa’s most prestigious film awards celebrating a list of Nigeria’s - Nollywood stars and the best of African cinema actors and actresses representing South Africa, Ghana, Sierra Leone as well as a host of other celebrities converging for Africa’s most prestigious awards in London.

    Afro Hollywood UK Conference & Awards 2007 will be an evening of investment opportunities, parade of stars, awards ceremony, glamour, live performances from film stars, music, comedy, dance and cultural entertainment. People of class and glamour, professionals and film enthusiasts who truly want to see the film industry in Africa grow will be attending. A showcase of Africa's best film talents. The event offers a conference on film funding and distribution in Africa (Theme: ‘Globalisation of Nollywood – Opportunities for Investors‘).

    Ticket price includes a three course meal, drinks, VIP reception, Banquet, Award ceremony and after party.

    • Time: 6.00pm till late
    • Tickets: £150
    • Box office: 07956 503 239/ 07956 952 256
    • Information: info@afrohollywood.co.uk
    • Address: 225 Edgware Road, London W2 1JU
    • Nearest station: Edgware Road
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  • Somali Week Festival: 'Romeo in the City' and closing event

    • Festivals & Special Events
    • 28 October 2007
    • Theatre Centre
    • London

    The new theatrical play merges Shakespeare and contemporary Britain in a story of loyalty, rivalry, hatred and desire set within the Somali and Pakistani communities.

    As part of the closing events, there will be traditional and modern cross-over music and dance with Saynab Ige, Mustafe Tiger, Kaltuun Ba’ado, Anab Ismail, Xanxanteeye and Ladiye.

    Djibouti theatre has became home to Somali art and culture. There will be a showcase Somali/Djibouti musicians, singer, and folklore dancers. Amongst them are Kaltuun Ba’ado and Anab Ismail, both well known in Djibouti and other Somali territories, who started their careers in the mid-80s and have become very famous in the Somali Theatre.

    • Time: 8.00pm - 11.00pm
    • Tickets: £5
    • Information: 0207 729 3066
    • Address: Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old Street, London EC1V 9LT
    • Nearest station: Bethnal Green
     
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  • Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Vusi Mahlasela

    • Music
    • 29 October 2007
    • Colston Hall
    • Bristol

    Ladysmith Black Mambazo's chorus of pwoerful harmonies emote the struggles and passion of South Africa. The warmth and charisma of founder and composer Joseph Shabalala, a man who has survied apartheid with his spirit whole, shines through Mambazo's music - their captivating Zulu harmonies are a proud, strong homage to the jubilancem power and beauty of indigenous music.

    Their music explores issues of racism, fair trade and politics among others. After they employed their music to celebrate the end of the aparteid era, Nelson Mandela publicly called Ladysmith "South Africa's cultural ambassadors", following his release from prison. The group sings acapella isicathamiya and mbube muisc - loud, powerful choruses contrast with softer, almost whispering chants where voices blend harmoniously, combined with tightly-choreographed dance moves that keep the singers on their toes.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £18.50/ £22/ £25 plus booking fee
    • Box Office: 0117 9322 3686
    • Address: Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR
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  • Dilemma of a Ghost

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 30 October 2007
    • Workshop Theatre
    • Leeds

    Passions explode where culturs collide in 21st century Africa

    When African-American Eulaline marries Ato, the sensitive and intelligent Ghanaian student she meets at university, she dreams that they will be "the sweetest and loveliest things in Africa and America rolled together". But when he brings her to Africa, the ghosts of the slave trade return to haunt the golden couple.

    Working with the National Theatre of Ghana, Border Crossings has brought togheter a world-class cast from two continents - including renowned Ghanaian musician Osei Korankye and Adeline Amam Buabeng, the formost Ghanaian actress of her generation. Modern beliefs mix uneasily with ancient values in this vital and vibrant production, which uses music, dance and the sheer physical exuberance of Ghana to celebrate 50 years of Ghana's independence and 200 years since the abolition of hte slave trade.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Box Office: 0113 343 4722
    • Address: School of English, Univeristy of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT
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  • Poetry Writing Workshops for Refugees and Exhiles

    • Music
    • 30 October 2007
    • Finsbury Library
    • London

    Where do you come from, what is your identity? If you are interested in writing poems about your life experiences and what it is like to be exiled in a new country, do come along and be encouraged to find a way into writing. All welcome.

    Poetry Writing Workshops with poet and workshop facilitator: Lynette Craig holds an MPhil in Writing; she mentors exiled writers and leads workshops for both beginners and more experienced writers. Her own writing reflects her interest in the dispossessed, the persecution and exile.

    This event is free however please book by emailing the following addres: Jennifer@exiledwriters.fsnet.co.uk

    • Time: 11.00am - 1.00pm
    • Admission: free
    • Address: 245 St John Street, Islington London EC1V 4NB
    • Nearest station: Angel
     
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  • Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Vusi Mahlasela

    • Music
    • 30 October 2007
    • Hall for Cornwall
    • Truro

    Ladysmith Black Mambazo's chorus of pwoerful harmonies emote the struggles and passion of South Africa. The warmth and charisma of founder and composer Joseph Shabalala, a man who has survied apartheid with his spirit whole, shines through Mambazo's music - their captivating Zulu harmonies are a proud, strong homage to the jubilancem power and beauty of indigenous music.

    Their music explores issues of racism, fair trade and politics among others. After they employed their music to celebrate the end of the aparteid era, Nelson Mandela publicly called Ladysmith "South Africa's cultural ambassadors", following his release from prison. The group sings acapella isicathamiya and mbube muisc - loud, powerful choruses contrast with softer, almost whispering chants where voices blend harmoniously, combined with tightly-choreographed dance moves that keep the singers on their toes.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £22.50/ £24.50 plus booking fee
    • Box Office: 01872 262 466
    • Address: Back Quay, TR1 2LL
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  • Dilemma of a Ghost

    • Theatre & Dance
    • 31 October 2007
    • Donald Roy Theatre
    • Hull

    Passions explode where culturs collide in 21st century Africa

    When African-American Eulaline marries Ato, the sensitive and intelligent Ghanaian student she meets at university, she dreams that they will be "the sweetest and loveliest things in Africa and America rolled together". But when he brings her to Africa, the ghosts of the slave trade return to haunt the golden couple.

    Working with the National Theatre of Ghana, Border Crossings has brought togheter a world-class cast from two continents - including renowned Ghanaian musician Osei Korankye and Adeline Amam Buabeng, the formost Ghanaian actress of her generation. Modern beliefs mix uneasily with ancient values in this vital and vibrant production, which uses music, dance and the sheer physical exuberance of Ghana to celebrate 50 years of Ghana's independence and 200 years since the abolition of hte slave trade.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: Annual membership £6
    • Box Office: 01482 466141
    • Address: University of Hull, HU6 7RX
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  • Escapism

    • Exhibitions & Shows
    • 31 October 2007
    • Pump House Gallery
    • London

    Born in Bournemouth, England in 1965, London-based artist Kimathi Donkor got his BA in Fine Art at Goldsmith's College in 1987. He returned to Goldsmith's for his post-graduate art-teaching qualification (PGCE) in 1992.

    In November 2004, the artist held his first major solo exhibition at the Bettie Morton Gallery in Brixton, London, where he showed 'Caribbean Passion: Haiti 1804', a powerful series of paintings marking the 200th anniversary of Haiti's independence.

    Escapism is a chance for Kimathi Donkor to talk about his work, with a discussion led by Kathy Mclean and Chinwe-Chukwuogo Roy. Part of Wandsworth Arts Festival 2007.

    • Time: 7.00pm onwards
    • Tickets: £6/ £8
    • Information: 0208 871 8711
    • Address: Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ
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  • Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Vusi Mahlasela

    • Music
    • 31 October 2007
    • Princess Theatre
    • Torquay

    Ladysmith Black Mambazo's chorus of pwoerful harmonies emote the struggles and passion of South Africa. The warmth and charisma of founder and composer Joseph Shabalala, a man who has survied apartheid with his spirit whole, shines through Mambazo's music - their captivating Zulu harmonies are a proud, strong homage to the jubilancem power and beauty of indigenous music.

    Their music explores issues of racism, fair trade and politics among others. After they employed their music to celebrate the end of the aparteid era, Nelson Mandela publicly called Ladysmith "South Africa's cultural ambassadors", following his release from prison. The group sings acapella isicathamiya and mbube muisc - loud, powerful choruses contrast with softer, almost whispering chants where voices blend harmoniously, combined with tightly-choreographed dance moves that keep the singers on their toes.

    • Time: 7.30pm
    • Tickets: £22.50/ £24.50 plus booking fee
    • Box Office: 0870 241 4120
    • Address: Torbay Road, Torquay, TQ2 5EZ
  • Back to top

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