Nafees Headlines New South Asian Community Showcase at the Belgrade Theatre Coventry Today

Today, 21st June, the Belgrade Theatre in association with JonquilsRose Events presents Belgrade Mela which will play host to a day-long celebration of South Asian arts.

Showcasing Coventry's South Asian arts, artists and arts organisations, the one-day event will see representatives from Coventry's diverse South Asian communities come together to celebrate South Asian arts in Coventry and to provide a platform for emerging South Asian talent in the city.

Visitors to the Mela are invited to participate in a series of free workshops showcasing the best in traditional and modern Asian arts. Workshops announced in the B2 auditorium during the day include Yoga, An Introduction to Giddah & Bhangra Dancing, Bollywood Dancing and learning how to play the Dhol. Stallholders from across the South Asian community will be on hand throughout the afternoon selling traditional artisan crafts. Accompanying this will be food stalls where visitors can enjoy savoury food. Not forgetting young visitors, there will be also be face painting whilst families can enjoy a free art exhibition exploring the journey of South Asian Communities who came to Coventry between the 1940s and 1950s.

During the evening, South Asian talent from across Coventry will take to the Belgrade Main stage for a two hour showcase featuring special guest star; Nafees. From storming onto the UK Asian music scene with his 1st hit "Mehmaan" and giving consistent hits such as Bari Sohni & Dua & Bukhaar & Sazaa, fans are in a for a real treat as this appearance marks Nafees' first performance in Coventry. Joining Nafees are Masterclass the Dhol Drummers and Stringz & Thingz which will see a fusion of both eastern & western instruments to create a very unique mix of music.

Mela Artistic Director Nasreen commented: 'The aim of the Belgrade Mela is to celebrate Coventry's vibrant south Asian community by showcasing what art, artists and arts organisations we have here in the city. This is a community-wide event in which all south Asian religions, cultures and communities can come together as one to enjoy their culture. It's also a great way for the wider Coventry community to find out more about South Asian arts in the city. All of the workshops that feature in the programme have been set up for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy. Whether it's learning how to play the dhol or trying your hand at Bollywood dance, we hope all communities will find something to enjoy at this year's event'.

Tickets for the evening show on the Belgrade Main stage are priced at £9.25 and £11.25. Foyer stalls will be open from 11am. Workshops will take place in B2 between 12noon - 4pm. All workshops are free to attend but must be booked in advance via Box Office.