Katara, the Cultural Village officially announced the first African Festival activities. The seven-day festival, running from the 7th - 13th April, which will showcase the best of African art, dance, music and film will also feature exhibitions, music and dance shows, jewelry and handicrafts, urban painting, a drive through cinema and a kidszone. Working closely with fifteen African embassies Katara presents the festival which will showcase three of Africa’s best known singing sensations Johnny Clegg, Manu Dibango and Cheikh Tidiane Seck. The African Festival brings together over 180 artists and performers from fifteen countries with embassies nominating performers, artists and films to represent their country’s arts and cultures on Katara’s stages and screens. The festival will feature street artists performing the La Hadhra, Malouf, Gnawa, Mezwed, Stambali, and percussion. For the duration of the concert, a DJ will present a unique mix of well-known African songs including the unforgettable songs of Tunisian, Egypt, Morocco and Algeria. Malika al Shraim, Festival Manager, Katara said, “This is a community-based cultural event that brings people together in many ways that express their ideas, traditions and values. The Middle East and Africa share a deep cultural wealth that is inherent to each region. We hope that this cultural exchange will set the foundation for future collaboration between Qatar and the African nations. “At Katara, we are dedicated to creating platforms that share this wealth and bridges cultural gaps. It is with immense pride and pleasure that we open our doors to visitors to enjoy the very first African Festival.” In addition the festival will showcase the African Circus which will feature the Kenyan Boys, a team composed of musicians, dancers, acrobats, fire performers and contortionists who will provide a whirlwind of wonderful acts such as acrobats, juggling and feats. Commenting on the line up, Malika al Shraim, Festival Manager, Katara said “One of the many highlights of the festival is the Jam Stage which will provide upcoming musicians and singers an opportunity to play instruments on a live stage with sound light and back lining. The stage will also be used to showcase live performances of dance; music and percussion live in between music workshops and jams.” The Cine Zone will screen a total of 20 films which were carefully selected based on their cultural relevance. The films will highlight African history and art through an array of traditional, folkloric and modern art expressions. The festival will also include a kidzone which will feature a live size stuffed animal zoo, face painting, workshops and a large wall where children can paint. Tickets for all performances can be purchased and are available at the Virgin Megastores during store operating hours (from 9:30am – 12midnight) at both Landmark and Villaggio outlets. They can also be purchased online at www.virginmegastore.me. - ILQ News -

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