by Naw Liang (London, UK)
Mai soong kha!
I'm back from overheated Japan and enjoying the proper British fall weather, colours and brisk mornings that almost make me want to return to university! While that is a distinct (im)possibility, there are a number of events that I am keen to participate in. The first ever Burmese Arts Festival is certainly one of them. I hope to see you all there.
Bringing together creatives linked to Burma/Myanmar
The Burmese Arts Festival (for details, see here) is the first event of its kind for London: the bringing together of Burmese artists and authors as well as those inspired by the South East Asian country to express, expose and share their thoughts, feelings and interpretations with the British public. Sponsored by a number of associations, including the Writers and Scholars Educational Trust, and assisted by a number of prominent Burmese figures, including former British Ambassador to Burma/Myanmar and translator Vicky Bowman, the four-day event in Central London (for a map and instructions to the Free Word Centre, look here) will showcase art exhibitions and installations, performances (music (classical, hip hop/rap and other) as well as viewings (video, film and documentaries) by people from Burma and those inspired by the country and its people. Notable presenters include Wendy Law-Yone (see bio here and a review of her latest book, 'The Road to Wanting', here) and hip hop artist Thxa Soe (see his website here) among others. A discussion panel of authors, a cabaret, numerous screenings, dances, presentations and other events, including a traditional Burmese tea shop (Saturday and Sunday only) will also add to the distinct Burmese flavour and air. For further details, including how you can get tickets before the event (let's hope it's not sold out), can be found at the English Pen's page on The Busmese Arts Festival.
This promises to be a great inaugural event - one that will certainly maintain the recent boom in interest in Burmese and Shan studies. Hope to see you there.
Jom lii kha,
Naw Liang
