London International Arts Festival

LIAF article written by Kate Olsson, Photography by Chris Christoforou

Note: The author's views are entirely his or her own and may not reflect the views of RetoxMagazine.com

London International Arts Festival (LIAF)

In it’s inaugural year, the London International Arts Festival (LIAF) was launched to the press and friends on July 12th. Curated by Indian violin virtuoso Jyotsna Srikanth, this exciting festival will be London’s newest cultural diversity festival with a three day event comprising of 13 music and dance acts from hand-picked artists from all corners of the globe, including Turkey, Mexico, Serbia and the USA.

Highlights for the event include South Indian classical vocal legend Dr. Balamuralikrishna and acclaimed jazz folk band EYOT. The three-day festival, which will be help at the Redbridge Town Hall in Ilford, will be a veritable smorgasbord of cultural acts. As Jyostna explains "I live in east London, one of the most multi-cultrual places on earth, yet it lacked a quality arts festival reflecting this diversity..."

The launch event, which took place at the Nehru Centre in Mayfair was a chance to really understand the thought process about such a wonderfully diverse festival, and a chance for a sneak preview of some of the outstanding featured acts of the festival. It was, as Jyostna explained, a celebration of the already- rich East London culture, but to build upon it, with the worlds best.

Jyotsna Srikanth treated the audience to a taste of her festival set, flooring listeners with her fusion of classical Indian and modern western jazz sounds. A completely and utterly jaw-dropping sound, unlike anything you’ve ever heard.

What more perfect way to escape the Olympic hype of this sports-mad city and immerse yourself in some of the world’s finest music and movement?

My pick of who to see at LIAF:

Anja McCloskey

Half-German, half-american, this indie-folk singer has been playing in bands right through university until, venturing solo in 2010. That year she released her debut single 'Turn-turn-turn'. Her music is described as 'surreal indie-folk', and with a strong, striking vocal Anja melodically expresses a range of emotions from anger to a playful parody.

Carnatica Brothers

A pair from Tamil Nadu blend both innovation and tradition in their vocal renditions of South Indian classical music. The pair have performed extensively around the world, including Europe, north America and Australia. In September 2006 Shashikiran and Ganesh broke the world record for the longest concert, singing without pause (no food, water or a bathroom break!) for 24 hours.

Dhruv Emsemble

This South Indian classical youth orchestra was formed as part of Dhruv art’s Musical school in 2004. The orchestra is comprised of to parts; Shadja and Panchama. Shadja, the junior component has children involved as young as 6 years old!

EYOT

Described as a 'post-Nirvana fusion jazz quartet' this Serbian group’s popularity continues to rise as more people embrace this brand of Eastern Jazz.

Jyotsna Srikanth Project (JSP)

Treated to a sneak preview at the media night, the violinist extraordinaire picks elements from jazz, folk, Irish folk, blues and Indian classical music and creates a truly unique and individual sound. Jyotsna Srikanth has featured on the soundtracks of over 200 Bollywood films and played alongside the worlds most acclaimed artists.

Jyotsna Srikanth Project (JSP) playing at the launch of the London International Arts Festival (LIAF) 2012.

La Internacional Sonora Balkanera

This group from Mexico will be sure to have you on your feet tearing up the dance floor with their traditional folk music, blended with Nortec dance vibes, Balkan beats and Latin rock.

Dr. M. Balamuralikrishna

At 81, Dr. M Balamuralikrishna has been named both a living legend and a musical genius. A Carnatic vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and acclaimed poet and composer, Balamuralikrishna continues to captivate and inspire a multitude of musicians across India and the world.

Ozgen

Making the journey over from Turkey, Ozgen is an acclaimed Turkish dancer, teacher, choreographer and director. Ozgen will not only be performing his own routines but also providing a demonstration workshop for willing participants.

But don't forget: Prakash Sontakke, Pushkala Dance, 'Rabindranjali' Indian Ballet, Robert Atchison and the Ormesby Ensemble, Shyamala Ramakrishna Hariharan Ravi and Dr Suma Subhindra.

There are a wide range of ticket options available for the festival, including day and weekend passes, as well as discounted ticket options for students!

All the information you need, can be found at LIAF.