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Mayfest 09 is a success in the sunshine

Thursday 7 May 2009

Mayfest 09 is a success in the sunshine

Hundreds of students, local residents and other visitors gathered at the University of East London (UEL) Docklands campus yesterday to enjoy live music, dance, theatre and fashion at Mayfest 09 cultural festival.

Mayfest featured a thrilling and diverse programme including art and photography exhibitions, music, dance, and poetry. Performances on the main stage included the Nostalgia Steel band, music from the Mehfil, the Nostalgia Steel Band, Serafina Dance Group, singer Shonanis, Moe Foe, and Barking Bateria, UEL's famous samba band.

Ionesco’s play The Chairs, reinterpreted by Performing Arts students, was a highlight of the drama programme. There was also an open mic poetry performance session, an art fair, fashion show, children’s maypole dancing and Ivory – an installation and live cello performance with electronic music.

The festival brought together the work of professionals, students, school pupils and community groups. Newham Civic Ambassador Akhbar Chowdhury was among local residents who joined the party. He said: "It's great to come to UEL and see the students putting on such wonderful performances. I am proud that we have such a dynamic and successful university here on our doorstep.”
Mark O’Thomas, Director of UEL’s Institute for Performing Arts Development, said: “I’m really delighted that so many people came along to enjoy the atmostphere and the activities. Once again Mayfest has highlighted the impressive performances from the students and the amazing creative talent we have at UEL in theatre, visual arts, music and community arts practice.”
UEL student Shonanis performed at the event, she is currently doing live shows around London. Shonanis said: “I think Mayfest is really diverse and very eclectic and there’s so much going on and I’m glad to be a part of it.”

Aaron Brace, 18, a Psychology student, also at UEL said: “It’s a lovely atmosphere here and I’m finding the Nostalgia steel band’s music warm and welcoming.”

Amani Baker, 21, a Graphic Arts and Illustration first year student at UEL said: “Mayfest brings a lot of cultures together. I came last year and it was great then and still is now.”

Ends

UEL Press office contact: 0208 223 6239 or 07595 056245

Notes to Editors

The University of East London (UEL) is a global learning community with over 28,000 students from over 120 countries world-wide. Our vision is to achieve recognition, both nationally and internationally, as a successful and inclusive regional university proud of its diversity, committed to new modes of learning which focus on students and enhance their employability, and renowned for our contribution to social, cultural and economic development, especially through our research and scholarship. We have a strong track-record in widening participation and working with industry.

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