2018 sees the return of the Boishakhi Mela to Weavers Fields, highlights of which will include an amazing main stage programme, spectacular parade, Mela Family and Arts Zone and a tantalising array of food, crafts and goods.
This annual community celebration of music, performance and dance is a key event in Tower Hamlets\’ cultural calendar, and this year\’s event will offer a programme that appeals to everyone.
Please watch this space for the latest announcements including headliners and a more programme details.
Main stage
Programming for 2018 is underway and we are scouring the UK and Bangladesh for the best Bengali acts. Last year\’s mela saw some of the biggest names in Bangla music and dance wow a 20,000 strong audience, with headline acts including the renowned MILES and Rinku from Bangladesh. Other highlights included singers Himangshu Goswami, Laboni Barua and Gouri Choudhury as well as high voltage dance performances from the internationally acclaimed Bolly Flex.
We are currently planning an exciting and diverse line-up for the main stage that will incorporate the best of Bengali inspired traditional and contemporary music and dance. Watch this space for programme highlights and a full running order!
Procession
A stunning procession will launch the day\’s activities. Starting from Brick Lane it will wind its way through Brick Lane and the heart of Banglatown finishing up by the Main Stage in Weavers Fields at midday to officially open the event. Local schools, artists, youth and community organisations will be involved in all aspects of the procession from choreography to costume and prop design to taking part in a joyous mobile spectacle on the day itself.
Family and Arts zone – 1pm to 6pm
Away from the main stage, the Mela Family and Arts Zone will provide tranquil hub with a range of free creative and wellbeing activities for those of all ages to take part in. It will run from 12 noon to 6.00pm.
The family tent will include a mix of visual arts and crafts workshops as well as performances including dance, music and storytelling. This is an exciting way to engage with Bengali arts and culture. All are welcome but workshops will ideally be suited to those aged 6+.
Following on from the success of 2017, Kobita Corner is back! Poetry, referred to by the Bangla word \’Kobita\’, is central to Bengali culture and we are delighted to offer a marquee as a designated poetry and exhibition space in which a number of leading cultural organisations will explore the inspiration and influence of the written and spoken word.
New for 2018 is a colourful, immersive and intimate space for acoustic performance, \’Underneath the Banyan Tree\’. This is named after the national tree of Bangladesh which has traditionally been the place in every rural village, for communities to come together for song, performance and debate.
There will also be a picnic and activity area which will include yoga and the ever-popular board game, carrom.
Watch this space for more details about activities on offer.
Food market and funfair
A tantalising array of foods will be offered alongside a wide range of Bengali and South Asian crafts and goods at the magnificent Mela Marketplace.
Thrill seekers of all ages will find plenty on offer at the extensive funfair.
If you wish to book a stall at this year\’s event please visit our \”Book a stall\” page for full details.
