The Liverpool Arab Arts Festival (LAAF) opened on Friday 15 July with a record of attendance. Over 3000 people participated in the first 3 days of the 10-day festival.
This year’s festival theme ‘Undocumented’ explores the various ways in which art can provide a deeper insight into the human experience. Festival Chair, Taher Qassim MBE, stated on his opening speech at the Everyman Theatre: “This year’s festival aims to document the voice of undocumented Arab artists in a time where current affairs and politics overshadow the creativity and artistry of the Arab world”.
The launch was followed by critically acclaimed theatre production, Queens of Syria, which stars an all-female cast of Syrian refugees that bring Euripides up to date with unforgettable personal testimonies. The Everyman Theatre was packed out with an audience moved to tears by the astounding and powerful work. (Queens of Syria is back in London on 24 at New London Theatre for their last UK show)
On Sunday 17, it was all about sun, music, arts and dance at the Bluecoat, Liverpool’s centre for the contemporary arts. Visitors took over Bluecoat’s courtyard – filled with joy and festive vibes – and enjoyed traditional Arabic music by Watan Trio and music and dance from Yemen by Al Awadhel Band. Palestinian musician Ruba Shamshoum and 14-year-old Liverpool-born Yemeni singer Reham Al-Hakimi delighted the public with the sweetest of voices.
The first weekend of LAAF also witnessed the creation of large-scale artworks by Egyptian calligraphy artist Nazir Tanbouli, folkloric dance and art workshops.
And this weekend is no difference at LAAF! Your best bet is to head to Sefton Park Palm House on Sunday 24 and enjoy LAAF’s family day and grand finale with internationally acclaimed acts brought by Arts Canteen including: award-winning Swedish group Tarabband, whose unique style of Arab music draws influences from around the world, from Middle Eastern and Nordic folk to traditional jazz.
Glastonbury showstoppers 47 SOUL will rock the Palm House with their new sound, Shamstep. Their music combines Dabke, the traditional Palestinian folkloric music and dance with deep electronic beats that will make you dance.
Yaz Fentazi Trio will bring their special fusion of classical Arabic, Chaabi, Gnawa led by Algerian Oud player Yazid Fentazi. Rising local talent Reham Al-Hakimi will perform traditional and contemporary songs from the Arab world. Plus you won’t want to miss the must see, fascinating and hypnotic performance by Whirling Dervish/Sufi Mahmoud Pharaon.
Check LAAF website for more info here
Pictures in the article by Jazamin Sinclair