Patterson Park in Norwood was home to the Finale of the WOMAD South African Safari festival on October 8.
The World of Music, Arts and Dance’s (WOMAD) director Dan Chiorboli said the festival was established in 1982 by British musician Peter Gabriel.
“WOMAD has since brought the sights, sounds and rhythms of the world to over 30 countries and an audience of millions.”
Chiorboli added that the festival enabled cross-continental collaborations which were part of the entire experience.
“A unique and important element that sets WOMAD apart from other festivals are the collaborations between international and local artists. The aim of these collaborations is to kick-start fresh projects for international consumption. Every project will be underpinned by a deeper meaning than just getting together for a gig”
A member of the audience Jeremy Franklin said festivals were a great occasion to unite people.
“This festival is a great way for people to connect and it seems in the modern world that there are a lot of people who were not able to connect enough due to the pandemic. It’s really important now that there are events and music so people can connect and enjoy each other’s music.”
Infographic information:
- The Womad experience has been successfully hosted in over 30 countries and to an audience of millions. It is one of the longest and most respected cultural festivals in the world and celebrates 40 years of existence in 2022.
- Womad’s cornerstones are job creation, cultural tourism, awareness of human rights, skills transfer programs, collaborations and recording sessions between international and local artists and the identification of emerging artists for the world stage.
- One of Womad’s outstanding achievements has been to create a family friendly environment, and to capture a very diverse and broad audience, thus enhancing social cohesion, cross-cultural awareness and tolerance
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