The whirlwind of culture that is the free Cosmopolitan Arts Festival returns this Saturday 24 August to Leicester’s City Centre, promising an unforgettable celebration of diverse music, dance, and art.
The festival showcases a rich lineup of local, national, and international talent, offering an eclectic mix of genres that reflects Leicester’s global connections.
From emerging talents to renowned performers, the festival promises an unforgettable musical journey that transcends borders and unites the community.
Hosted by BBC Radio Leicester’s own Kevin Ncube, the audience can look forward to electrifying performances on the Main Stage at Jubilee Square by acclaimed acts such as British Soul/Funk/Disco legends, Delegation, whose timeless hits like “You and I” and “Oh Honey” have captivated listeners for decades. Joining them is Reggae artist Jah Marnyah, whose powerful voice and diverse influences blend reggae, hip-hop, and dancehall. Darien Prophecy, known for his electrifying live performances and hit single “Natural Vibes” will bring his dynamic sound to the stage.
Attendees will also enjoy Award-winning British Neo-Jazz Singer-Songwriter, Ni Maxine, known for her soulful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. Grupo Bossa, an exciting new jazz ensemble, will bring a fresh twist to Brazilian bossa nova, blending jazz improvisation with Latin rhythms. Genre-bending Project Blackbird will challenge musical boundaries with their fusion of jazz, folk, and electronica. Twentieth-century Hardbop masters Kind of Nu will pay homage to the golden era of jazz, while international Nigerian artist Baba Lotiga promises to energise the crowd with their infectious blend of Afrobeat, funk, and soul.
Our Clocktower stage will be hosted by the incredible comedian Ishi Khan and showcase an eclectic mix of musical styles. Afro-futurist kora player Strings of Fire will bring a modern twist to West African traditions with his innovative blend of traditional sounds and electronic effects. String Beats will deliver the elegance of live Indian classical music, blending tradition with contemporary flair. The Neumonarchs, a dynamic alt-rock group, will inject energy and funk into the indie rock scene. The festival will also feature the talented Cosmo Stars, a group of advanced students from the Cosmopolitan Arts Centre, performing their own pieces and showcasing their musical growth. Established jazz musician Delores Joseph will enchant with her distinctive take on jazz standards, while Euphoria, a Chinese music art centre, will offer a unique fusion of traditional Chinese music with Western styles.
In addition to the music, the festival will feature a dedicated dance area on the High Street showcasing talent from local, national, and international dancers. Attendees can immerse themselves in performances that highlight a variety of dance styles and cultural influences. Guests can also engage in a variety of workshops, including a DJ tent for aspiring mixmasters, Taiko drumming sessions, and hands-on circus skills classes. For those looking for something different, there’s tube zorbing and a chance to create custom art with bike vinyl.
The Cosmopolitan Arts Festival is a free must-attend event for lovers of art, music, and culture. Don’t miss out on this free vibrant celebration!
For more information, please visit https://www.cosmopolitanarts.co.uk/ or follow @CosmopolitanArts on social media.
