Project Description
In its fifth edition, Night of Festivals Hounslow, saw Bell Square and High Street come alive with live music, art installations and creative arts based mental health workshops. A sunny Saturday was hosted by Nick from Two Voices Radio and DJ Wondergupta.
Rounding off a fabulous day of music was the BBC Music Introducing artist Amrit Kaur Lohia. The Sarangi player and vocalist demonstrated her talents both in Punjabi and English, prefacing each song with a fascinating explanation of its origins or meaning.
As the evening drew closer, the attendees reluctantly left – only stopping to add their contribution to the Hounslow Heritage tree, which by now had an attractive array of labels to gently twirl in the breeze.
Mandinga Arts and King Brasstards looked dapper in colourful costumes as they led the carnival down the high street to Bell Square. When Mandinga Arts had finished their explosive routine around the heritage tree, observers could find a moment of peace in the zen garden or shared their thoughts on heritage with ArtReach’s National Heritage Lottery Fund stand.
A highlight of the weekend were the Tamil Foundation’s performances. Their performance in the nearby shopping centre, The Treaty Centre, featured only the younger dancers. Whereas on Bell Square, the mature ladies of their community, who had been learning dance for their health and wellbeing, showcased their skills.
Interspersed with the explosive beat of Asian British Music’s dhol players, the weekend came to a satisfying end and was attended by over 15,000 people. Overall Night of Festivals Hounslow continued to celebrate heritage in Hounslow as it again saw a colourful weekend of carnival, music and arts, all with an important focus on wellbeing.
See highlights from the festival in the film and gallery below.
