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Community performers sought for African arts gala

Aisha Iqbal
BBC News, Bradford Political Reporter
BAFA Media A woman in colourful, traditional African clothing performs in front of a seated crowd in a city square. It's a bright and sunny day. The performer's back is to the camera.BAFA Media
Crowds in Bradford's Centenary Square enjoying one of 2024's community performances at BAFA

A call-out has been issued for young performers to take part in a summer festival in Bradford which celebrates the arts and culture of the city's African populations.

The second BAFA (Bradford African Festival of Arts) will be held in August, centred on the theme of "ubuntu" - a Zulu word meaning "of the people" or "unity".

Judith Dlamini, who is part of the festival team, said the idea was "to bring Africa here" but to also encourage people to work together to support those from all communities who may need help.

"This is a place where we can just express ourselves and invite lots of people so that they can come and belong," she said.

BAFA Media A group of nine people, all from an African-Caribbeanbackground, stand smiling in front of a display board which has the names and flag style maps of various African countries on it. Some of the group wear traditional African clothing.BAFA Media
Judith Dlamini (third from left) with co-organisers of BAFA 2025 and artists and performers from Bradford's African community

The festival, to be held at several city centre venues between 13 and 16 August, will include a children's theatre performance and a Zulu dance.

Organisers have urged children aged six to sixteen who are interested in singing, dancing, acting or cultural displays to get in touch.

"It is to express our culture and then teach our children as well," Ms Dlamini said.

Festival director and founder Dr Olushola Kolawole said this year's 4-day event would be expanded from last year's inaugural 2-day showcase, and around 4,000 people are expected to attend.

BAFA is part of Bradford's 2025 UK City of Culture celebrations and aims to reflect the city's growing African communities, including newcomers from Zimbabwe, Botswana and beyond.

It will feature food, music, dance and storytelling from a range of African countries.

BAFA Media A group of six people, all from an African-Caribbean background, stand smiling in front of a display board which has the names and flag style maps of various African countries on it. BAFA Media
Dr Olushola Kolawole, director of BAFA (middle) with supporters and artists including renowned Afrobeats performer Tope Dada (right)

Ms Dlamini stressed the festival was both a celebration and a response to a need felt by many in the community who may be newer arrivals to the city.

"We can work together… we who have been in this country for many years, [and] we can welcome them so that they don't feel lonely," she said.

"It is difficult when you have just moved. We want to help to make Bradford feel like home for people, because it has been home for us for many years. So we want those that are joining us here as well to feel at home."

Young performers and community groups interested in taking part are encouraged to contact organisers via the Bradford African Festival website.

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