Arts & Culture
The Rajisthani Heritage Brass Band. Credit: Art Asia
Published: May 16, 2023 | Updated: 15th May 2023
Southampton Mela is once again set to flood the streets with music, dance and art, as the free annual festival returns to Hoglands Park on 15 July.
Credit: Art Asia
On top of the usual packed programme celebrating the diversity and creativity of Southampton’s communities, this year sees the introduction of a new Arts Bazaar for small businesses and designer makers to sell their arts and crafts.
GO! Southampton, the city’s Business Improvement District, connected with festival organisers Art Asia to sponsor the marquee as part of their wider support efforts for local businesses and events.
They will also be working with Westquay to provide additional entertainment in the city centre alongside the festival, tying everything together for the big day.
Credit: Art Asia
Stephen Manion, Executive Director at GO! Southampton, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the Arts Bazaar at the Southampton Mela Festival this year.
“One of our key aims is to uplift and help grow the events already taking place in the city, especially ones such as Mela, which celebrate Southampton’s rich culture and diversity.”
Southampton Mela has grown over the last two decades to become a real highlight on the city’s cultural calendar, all thanks to the efforts of Southampton-based non-profit organisation Art Asia.
Credit: Art Asia
Chief Executive Dahlia Jamil added: “We are incredibly excited to be working with GO! Southampton, which will allow us to create a unique and exciting experience for festival-goers at Southampton Mela 2023.
“The Arts Bazaar will not only provide a platform for local artists and small businesses but also add an extra dimension to the already vibrant and culturally rich event.”
If the new marquee wasn’t enough of a pull, visitors will also be treated to a couple of exciting outdoor performances.
Sonia Sabri Company are bringing their Mughal Miniatures to Southampton, featuring a fusion of modern and classical dance inspired by the intricate paintings of the Mughal Empire.
Rajasthani Heritage Brass Band playing in Birmingham. Credit: Merlin Daleman
They will be joined by the Rajasthani Heritage Brass Band, a high-energy and colourful ensemble who blend traditional Rajasthani music with contemporary styles.
As for the new Arts Bazaar, any small businesses or individuals who would like to come and sell their arts and crafts products are encouraged to find out more at artasia.org.uk.
