An international renaissance of Spanish folk music
Performer Alejandro Postigo brings back the Spanish Diva with COPLA: A Spanish Cabaret
HERE FOR THE OTHERS!
An international renaissance of Spanish folk music
COPLA a Spanish Cabaret is a vibrant live music show that runs from 14th-26th January at The Other Palace, 12 Palace Street, London SW1E 5JA
It’s Friday evening and I have a date at the Other Palace Theatre with “La Gitana”, alter ego of the Spanish queer performer Alejandro Postigo. I listen to his voice and it sounds familiar. There is something in the air and his ways of walking that makes me feel comfortable. Maybe it is the design of The Studio room at the venue or the intimacy built by the close tables disposed as if I was in a club, the dark atmosphere and the sound of drinks pouring.
Suddenly, I was introduced by Alejandro and his certificates and degrees, specialising in COPLA, the traditional Spanish folk music barely known outside of his country. A violin played the notes and the piano followed, and I became a friend of his character, who took me to another space in time: back to the beginning of the 20th century, through the troubling years of the Spanish Civil War and its aftermath. Through the evening, we celebrated together when copla became very popular during the 1950s, and when it gained a strong presence in Spanish film and theatre later on, with the birth of a strong woman character called “the Spanish Diva,” a pivotal moment in our journey. Copla songs were reclaimed by Spanish drag artists in the 1980s, and this was the material that inspired the creative journey of Alejandro’s interactive solo performance.
Exploring identity and the meaning of home
Alejandro displayed an ownership of the scene like no other. He can be chatting with us, then suddenly singing in Spanish and in the next minute turning to an accurate English version of a heartfelt traditional COPLA song. All of this unfolds as he reveals the many layers of the performance—his personal journey and the broader context in which it takes place. Supported by music and audiovisual elements, the play becomes highly interactive, creating a truly immersive experience.
In an hour and few minutes, we navigate the unfolding of Alejandro’s personal journey through self discovery and migration, an exploration of current issues of cultural and sexual identity in an entertaining way. As he mentions during the play: “…being in-between genders, living in-between countries”. This play made the relentless pace of the city slow down, even if just for a moment— with a deep breath of empathy and resilience.
A subtle invitation to endure
Director Sergio Maggiolo said in the official press release: “Copla is music that fights for our right to be ourselves in an authoritarian world. In fascist Spain, queer people, women, and ethnic minorities, found community and resistance in Copla songs”. In this lecture-cabaret-fantasia play, Alejandro dives into the dramatic world of Copla revealing its subversive power and inviting us to connect with the most authentic version within us all.
A must see.
For more information you can visit @thecoplacabaret Instagram channel
You can book tickets from the Box Office available at The Other Palace Theatre
Photo credit: Jake Bush
THE MOUTH OF THE GODS: A Remembrance of Latin America’s Indigenous Activist Resistance
Intercultural multi-media theatre Border Crossings presents
An immersive experience from Wednesday 27th November to Sunday 1st December 2024
at the Hoxton Hall, 130 Hoxton Street, London N1 6SH
In recent years, many influencers have championed activism, providing visibility for minority rights. Yet, in fast-paced cities like London, life as migrants often leaves us overwhelmed, making it easy to overlook the struggles of our ancestors. These struggles, far from being a trending topic, have been a defining element of human history, persisting since the dawn of civilization.
When I attended the immersive theatrical experience The Mouth of the Gods by Border Crossings Theatre, I realized how little most of us know about these historical battles. Subjects like the resilience and cultural significance of Latin America’s Indigenous peoples are often overlooked in schools, rarely presented with a balanced narrative, and seldom discussed at home. This powerful production filled that gap, immersing the audience in a vivid tapestry of history, culture, and resistance.
A Journey Through History and Heritage
The Mouth of the Gods masterfully weaves ancestral dances, drama, and ritual with the evocative strains of baroque music—a fusion of European and Indigenous traditions. The performance journeys through centuries, from the oppressive colonial era to the modern-day murders of activists, such as the assassination of Honduran environmentalist Berta Cáceres in the 2000s. It offers a poignant reminder of how these stories remain painfully relevant.
At the heart of the production lies the rediscovered opera San Francisco Xavier, written in the Chiquitano language by an unknown Indigenous composer. This rare gem forms the centerpiece of the performance, brought to life by an extraordinary cast. Peruvian soprano Edith Ramos Guerra and tenor Rafael Montero lead the ensemble, accompanied by a baroque orchestra under the direction of Matthew Morley, formerly the Chorus Master at the English National Opera.
A Community Collaboration
The Mouth of the Gods goes beyond theatre, merging professional artistry with community involvement. London’s Latin American communities and local schoolchildren collaborated with professional singers, musicians, and actors to create this deeply impactful production. The preparation process included workshops where community members crafted Indigenous-style puppets and helped recreate a funerary mantle inspired by the ancient Paracas civilization. This embroidered masterpiece, stitched by volunteers over a year, will be displayed as part of the show.
Director Michael Walling described the significance of the production, stating:
“The Mouth of the Gods is one of the most important shows I’ve ever worked on. It reflects a culture that needs to be shared: Indigenous ideas are the ones that can point us toward a just and sustainable world.”
A Celebration of Heritage
This unique project highlights the richness and resilience of Indigenous heritage. By combining operatic and Indigenous music with community participation, The Mouth of the Gods creates a shared exploration of history and culture that resonates deeply with its audience.
Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Cockayne Foundation, the London Community Foundation, and the Marchus Trust, the production represents a significant effort to honor and amplify voices often marginalized in mainstream narratives.
This review was writen by Cristina Martinez.
For more updates and insights, follow Border Crossings Theatre on
Facebook @BorderCrossingsTheatre
X: @BorderCrossings
Instagram: @border_crossings
TikTok: @border_crossings
YouTube: @BorderCrossings1
#MouthOfGods
Brazilian tent at Carnavalito
We are so happy to have a record number of Brazilian participants in the Carnival this year including Paraiso School of Samba, Street Food Brazil, Sabia Duvida, Canto dos Mafagafos and Mae Zona. Join our brazilian tent for bilingual storytelling, samba workshops, singing and games! Full programme of Carnavalito aqui
See you this Sunday 20th of August at 11 am. Burguess park. FREE ENTRY AND ACTIVITIES!
All Brazilian delights you have been craving. You can read the menu here .
Also they sponsored a £50 prize for the football competition! Obrigado!
Canto dos Mafagafos and Sabia Duvida Portuguese as a Heritage Language School: Family fun activities at Carnavalito, within Carnaval del Pueblo
Join us for a day filled with joy and culture in the heart of London as we dive into the colors, rhythms, and traditions of the carnival! This special program has been carefully crafted to provide unforgettable moments and fun for all ages. Come and experience the contagious energy of the carnival!
Exciting activities await you:
Original Samba Enredo of Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás:
Enjoy the performance of the original Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás’ Samba Enredo. Let yourself be carried away by the creative lyrics of Jorge Rein and the pulsating rhythm of the music by Altemir Oliveira (Xoko Oliveira). A production by Magali Hochberg and organised by Canto dos Mafagafos and Sabia Duvida Portuguese as a Heritage Language School for our Bailinho de Carnaval 2023.
Thrilling Choreography: Let’s sing and dance together!
Get ready to learn and dance to the rhythm of the Samba Enredo! Isabela Passaro and Magali Hochberg will lead a workshop with a simple and easy-to-learn choreography so everyone can dance along! Whether you’re a beginner or already have some moves, everyone is welcome to join in the pulsating rhythm of Carnaval!
Entertaining Carnaval Storytelling Performance:
Let your imagination run wild as you watch the performance of “A Formiga contabilista e sua poupança descontrolada” a hilarious Carnaval story in Portuguese written by Thais Braga, also known as MãeZona, and starring Isabela Passaro. Felisberto was a grumpy worker ant who took her accounting job very seriously. He didn’t like jokes, smiling, dancing, or company. To him, it was all a waste of time. His focus was on working and saving wealth in the Ant Bank. Felisberto was only ‘happy’ in his name… until he encountered Carnaval, and from that day on, everything changed!
Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás’ Parade:
Come dressed up and join the parade with Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás!
Carnaval Games:
The fun continues with a series of games inspired by the Carnaval spirit. Come have fun, make new friends, and share laughs and special moments.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate Carnaval in great style, right in the heart of London! Bring your family and friends to immerse themselves in a festive and multicultural atmosphere that will warm your hearts and create lasting memories. We look forward to seeing you all there!
Paraiso will participate in the dance procession at 2 pm and they will offer a FREE intro to Samba workshop for all families at 12:30 in the family village!
Mum and Son together
Melina and Adrian recently moved to London. They are a Brazilian family from San Pablo and would like to read a book that is close to Adrian’s heart as it related to his migration story. The name of the book is ‘A carta de Hugo’.
O Urso Hugo Está Triste: Tony, Seu Melhor Amigo De Todo O Universo Se Mudou Para Bem Longe. E Ainda Por Cima Está Se Divertindo Muito Ao Lado De Seus Novos Amigos. Junte-Se A Hugo Em Uma Grande Aventura Para Entregar Uma Carta Muito Especial E Garantir Que A Amizade Entre Ele E Tony Seja Eterna, De Verdade!
We are so lucky to have a popular Brazilian author coming to the Carnavalito to ready 3 wonderful books.
“A carta que transportava saudade”
“The letter that carried longing” is a children’s book for children who cannot heal their missing
emotions with hugs! It playfully talks about “saudade”, the feeling of missing something or
someone, and helps open the way for this delicate dialogue. This theme is essential for
immigrant families and also has lived in times of pandemic and social isolation! We must work
this out with our children and make them understand and name this feeling.
Publisher: Aquarela Livros
Link: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MaezonaShop
” O que tem no escuro da noite?“
What lurks in the dark of night? Does pitch hold so much mystery, or is it just our imagination
evolving along with fear?
This story revolves around what happens inside a child’s head at bedtime: creatively turn the
unknown into terror! Reality is very different and dull because there is no ghost wrapped in a
white sheet, a giant ferocious monster, or a witch with a large nose and extravagant hair.
The book opens up a chance for dialogue about the fear of the dark and all the reflections that
the night brings. Shall we read together and sleep in peace?
Publisher Ases da Literatura
“ Os mosquitos nos picam e a culpa é do Noé”
This story began thousands of years ago, right after Noah built that giant ark to house animals
and escape the great flood on Earth! This version is told by humans, right? But I bet you’ve
never heard the animals’ performance through the eyes of mosquitoes! A brawl, a rumble!
I don’t even tell you, or instead, I do! Let’s understand everything that happened on that vessel
and have a good laugh together!
I’ll tell you one thing immediately: If mosquitoes bite us and annoy us with their buzzing, they
have a good reason: IT’S NOÉ’S BLAME!
Publisher: Inverso
Author Biography:
Thais Braga
Communicator, writer, Brazilian, living in London, married and mother of 8-year-old Aurora, not
precisely in that order! I have a blog about motherhood, MãeZona, in which I explore the subject
of motherhood with humour. Adding all platforms, we are more than 170 thousand people
exchanging experiences.
My imagination runs wild, and when it comes to writing and telling stories, I feel my heart beat
faster! My first book, “The Letter That Transported Longing”, was well received by readers and
their families, so I decided to continue this endeavour in the publishing market. This time,
publishing a children’s humour book, “The mosquitoes bite us, and It’s Noah’s Fault”, re-reading
one of the most extraordinary tales of humanity to make people laugh, create fun memories
involving literature, and help them develop critical thinkers. This book is running for the Jabuti
Award in Brazil this year.
My third book, just released, is about the fear of the night and the fourth, which is on the way,
will be about learning disabilities, aiming to help children struggling at school.
I am excited about our reading on the 20th, I will have my three books with me, and you can
choose which one we will read and discuss. We will also have art and craft activities connected
with the “Letter that transported longing” book.
Hope to see you there for a fun day!If you want to know a little more about my work:
www.maezonanoblog.com
https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MaezonaShop
Instagram: @maezonanoinsta
Facebook” @maezonanoface
.
Brazilian tent at Carnavalito
We are so happy to have a record number of Brazilian participants in the Carnival this year including Paraiso School of Samba, Street Food Brazil, Sabia Duvida, Canto dos Mafagafos and Mae Zona. Join our brazilian tent for bilingual storytelling, samba workshops, singing and games! Full programme of Carnavalito aqui
See you this Sunday 20th of August at 11 am. Burguess park. FREE ENTRY AND ACTIVITIES!
All Brazilian delights you have been craving. You can read the menu here .
Also they sponsored a £50 prize for the football competition! Obrigado!
Canto dos Mafagafos and Sabia Duvida Portuguese as a Heritage Language School: Family fun activities at Carnavalito, within Carnaval del Pueblo
Join us for a day filled with joy and culture in the heart of London as we dive into the colors, rhythms, and traditions of the carnival! This special program has been carefully crafted to provide unforgettable moments and fun for all ages. Come and experience the contagious energy of the carnival!
Exciting activities await you:
Original Samba Enredo of Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás:
Enjoy the performance of the original Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás’ Samba Enredo. Let yourself be carried away by the creative lyrics of Jorge Rein and the pulsating rhythm of the music by Altemir Oliveira (Xoko Oliveira). A production by Magali Hochberg and organised by Canto dos Mafagafos and Sabia Duvida Portuguese as a Heritage Language School for our Bailinho de Carnaval 2023.
Thrilling Choreography: Let’s sing and dance together!
Get ready to learn and dance to the rhythm of the Samba Enredo! Isabela Passaro and Magali Hochberg will lead a workshop with a simple and easy-to-learn choreography so everyone can dance along! Whether you’re a beginner or already have some moves, everyone is welcome to join in the pulsating rhythm of Carnaval!
Entertaining Carnaval Storytelling Performance:
Let your imagination run wild as you watch the performance of “A Formiga contabilista e sua poupança descontrolada” a hilarious Carnaval story in Portuguese written by Thais Braga, also known as MãeZona, and starring Isabela Passaro. Felisberto was a grumpy worker ant who took her accounting job very seriously. He didn’t like jokes, smiling, dancing, or company. To him, it was all a waste of time. His focus was on working and saving wealth in the Ant Bank. Felisberto was only ‘happy’ in his name… until he encountered Carnaval, and from that day on, everything changed!
Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás’ Parade:
Come dressed up and join the parade with Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás!
Carnaval Games:
The fun continues with a series of games inspired by the Carnaval spirit. Come have fun, make new friends, and share laughs and special moments.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate Carnaval in great style, right in the heart of London! Bring your family and friends to immerse themselves in a festive and multicultural atmosphere that will warm your hearts and create lasting memories. We look forward to seeing you all there!
Paraiso will participate in the dance procession at 2 pm and they will offer a FREE intro to Samba workshop for all families at 12:30 in the family village!
Mum and Son together
Melina and Adrian recently moved to London. They are a Brazilian family from San Pablo and would like to read a book that is close to Adrian’s heart as it related to his migration story. The name of the book is ‘A carta de Hugo’.
O Urso Hugo Está Triste: Tony, Seu Melhor Amigo De Todo O Universo Se Mudou Para Bem Longe. E Ainda Por Cima Está Se Divertindo Muito Ao Lado De Seus Novos Amigos. Junte-Se A Hugo Em Uma Grande Aventura Para Entregar Uma Carta Muito Especial E Garantir Que A Amizade Entre Ele E Tony Seja Eterna, De Verdade!
We are so lucky to have a popular Brazilian author coming to the Carnavalito to ready 3 wonderful books.
“A carta que transportava saudade”
“The letter that carried longing” is a children’s book for children who cannot heal their missing
emotions with hugs! It playfully talks about “saudade”, the feeling of missing something or
someone, and helps open the way for this delicate dialogue. This theme is essential for
immigrant families and also has lived in times of pandemic and social isolation! We must work
this out with our children and make them understand and name this feeling.
Publisher: Aquarela Livros
Link: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MaezonaShop
” O que tem no escuro da noite?“
What lurks in the dark of night? Does pitch hold so much mystery, or is it just our imagination
evolving along with fear?
This story revolves around what happens inside a child’s head at bedtime: creatively turn the
unknown into terror! Reality is very different and dull because there is no ghost wrapped in a
white sheet, a giant ferocious monster, or a witch with a large nose and extravagant hair.
The book opens up a chance for dialogue about the fear of the dark and all the reflections that
the night brings. Shall we read together and sleep in peace?
Publisher Ases da Literatura
“ Os mosquitos nos picam e a culpa é do Noé”
This story began thousands of years ago, right after Noah built that giant ark to house animals
and escape the great flood on Earth! This version is told by humans, right? But I bet you’ve
never heard the animals’ performance through the eyes of mosquitoes! A brawl, a rumble!
I don’t even tell you, or instead, I do! Let’s understand everything that happened on that vessel
and have a good laugh together!
I’ll tell you one thing immediately: If mosquitoes bite us and annoy us with their buzzing, they
have a good reason: IT’S NOÉ’S BLAME!
Publisher: Inverso
Author Biography:
Thais Braga
Communicator, writer, Brazilian, living in London, married and mother of 8-year-old Aurora, not
precisely in that order! I have a blog about motherhood, MãeZona, in which I explore the subject
of motherhood with humour. Adding all platforms, we are more than 170 thousand people
exchanging experiences.
My imagination runs wild, and when it comes to writing and telling stories, I feel my heart beat
faster! My first book, “The Letter That Transported Longing”, was well received by readers and
their families, so I decided to continue this endeavour in the publishing market. This time,
publishing a children’s humour book, “The mosquitoes bite us, and It’s Noah’s Fault”, re-reading
one of the most extraordinary tales of humanity to make people laugh, create fun memories
involving literature, and help them develop critical thinkers. This book is running for the Jabuti
Award in Brazil this year.
My third book, just released, is about the fear of the night and the fourth, which is on the way,
will be about learning disabilities, aiming to help children struggling at school.
I am excited about our reading on the 20th, I will have my three books with me, and you can
choose which one we will read and discuss. We will also have art and craft activities connected
with the “Letter that transported longing” book.
Hope to see you there for a fun day!If you want to know a little more about my work:
www.maezonanoblog.com
https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MaezonaShop
Instagram: @maezonanoinsta
Facebook” @maezonanoface
.
Alerta
Theatre is also democratic
Review about “Alerta”, a play by Marianne Eilers Gonzàlez, performed at the Bread & Roses Theatre in July.
We are in Chile and it is 2018. Several education centres and colleges had challenged the status quo from within: students had decided to take their classrooms and lock themself as a way of protesting against unfair treatment. But, who is getting that much noise and alarm? Women are. This is what Alerta play is all about.
In a similar approach to “Women Talking” the movie (2022), Alerta is performed by 10 actors who interact between each other and sitting next to the audience, allowing us to experience closely the fears, the dreams, and the unfortunate events that lead the protagonist to fight against their authorities with strength and vulnerability at the same time.
“Coming up with this show has been a huge and beautiful journey of personal, cultural collective and inspiring discovery. Alerta explores a part of my life in Chile, during the feminist wave in 2018. Creating Alerta comes from a need to tell these stories that drive us to bridge distances, to question, to unite”, shared the director Marianne Eilers González.
What I loved about this play is that it promotes democratic principles which are disappearing in some of the countries where the actors come from, and my own particularly. . Actions such as voting or hearing others’ viewpoints are powerful tools to make everybody feel listened and included. Of course coming to an agreement is always the difficult part and the play highlights this.
When I left the room, it was a shame not knowing if I had to come back. I never knew what happened to these girls up there and how their fight ended. Maybe it is just like democracy: it is always a “work in progress”. But the show had sparked my curiosity about the feminist ‘revolution’ in Chile.
Tell me more!
Alerta is created with 100% Latin America creative team and cast, having performers from Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Nicaragua, Perú, Brazil and México. Alerta combines theatre and activism to create a thought-provoking and impactful portrayal of the feminist movement. Search for it. Read about it and shared it.
Have a look at @alertatheplay on Instagram.
By Cristina Martinez
Alerta
Theatre is also democratic
Review about “Alerta”, a play by Marianne Eilers Gonzàlez, performed at the Bread & Roses Theatre in July.
We are in Chile and it is 2018. Several education centres and colleges had challenged the status quo from within: students had decided to take their classrooms and lock themself as a way of protesting against unfair treatment. But, who is getting that much noise and alarm? Women are. This is what Alerta play is all about.
In a similar approach to “Women Talking” the movie (2022), Alerta is performed by 10 actors who interact between each other and sitting next to the audience, allowing us to experience closely the fears, the dreams, and the unfortunate events that lead the protagonist to fight against their authorities with strength and vulnerability at the same time.
“Coming up with this show has been a huge and beautiful journey of personal, cultural collective and inspiring discovery. Alerta explores a part of my life in Chile, during the feminist wave in 2018. Creating Alerta comes from a need to tell these stories that drive us to bridge distances, to question, to unite”, shared the director Marianne Eilers González.
What I loved about this play is that it promotes democratic principles which are disappearing in some of the countries where the actors come from, and my own particularly. . Actions such as voting or hearing others’ viewpoints are powerful tools to make everybody feel listened and included. Of course coming to an agreement is always the difficult part and the play highlights this.
When I left the room, it was a shame not knowing if I had to come back. I never knew what happened to these girls up there and how their fight ended. Maybe it is just like democracy: it is always a “work in progress”. But the show had sparked my curiosity about the feminist ‘revolution’ in Chile.
Tell me more!
Alerta is created with 100% Latin America creative team and cast, having performers from Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Nicaragua, Perú, Brazil and México. Alerta combines theatre and activism to create a thought-provoking and impactful portrayal of the feminist movement. Search for it. Read about it and shared it.
Have a look at @alertatheplay on Instagram.
By Cristina Martinez
Brazilian tent at Carnavalito
We are so happy to have a record number of Brazilian participants in the Carnival this year including Paraiso School of Samba, Street Food Brazil, Sabia Duvida, Canto dos Mafagafos and Mae Zona. Join our brazilian tent for bilingual storytelling, samba workshops, singing and games! Full programme of Carnavalito aqui
See you this Sunday 20th of August at 11 am. Burguess park. FREE ENTRY AND ACTIVITIES!
All Brazilian delights you have been craving. You can read the menu here .
Also they sponsored a £50 prize for the football competition! Obrigado!
Canto dos Mafagafos and Sabia Duvida Portuguese as a Heritage Language School: Family fun activities at Carnavalito, within Carnaval del Pueblo
Join us for a day filled with joy and culture in the heart of London as we dive into the colors, rhythms, and traditions of the carnival! This special program has been carefully crafted to provide unforgettable moments and fun for all ages. Come and experience the contagious energy of the carnival!
Exciting activities await you:
Original Samba Enredo of Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás:
Enjoy the performance of the original Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás’ Samba Enredo. Let yourself be carried away by the creative lyrics of Jorge Rein and the pulsating rhythm of the music by Altemir Oliveira (Xoko Oliveira). A production by Magali Hochberg and organised by Canto dos Mafagafos and Sabia Duvida Portuguese as a Heritage Language School for our Bailinho de Carnaval 2023.
Thrilling Choreography: Let’s sing and dance together!
Get ready to learn and dance to the rhythm of the Samba Enredo! Isabela Passaro and Magali Hochberg will lead a workshop with a simple and easy-to-learn choreography so everyone can dance along! Whether you’re a beginner or already have some moves, everyone is welcome to join in the pulsating rhythm of Carnaval!
Entertaining Carnaval Storytelling Performance:
Let your imagination run wild as you watch the performance of “A Formiga contabilista e sua poupança descontrolada” a hilarious Carnaval story in Portuguese written by Thais Braga, also known as MãeZona, and starring Isabela Passaro. Felisberto was a grumpy worker ant who took her accounting job very seriously. He didn’t like jokes, smiling, dancing, or company. To him, it was all a waste of time. His focus was on working and saving wealth in the Ant Bank. Felisberto was only ‘happy’ in his name… until he encountered Carnaval, and from that day on, everything changed!
Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás’ Parade:
Come dressed up and join the parade with Bloco dos Mafagafos e dos Sabiás!
Carnaval Games:
The fun continues with a series of games inspired by the Carnaval spirit. Come have fun, make new friends, and share laughs and special moments.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate Carnaval in great style, right in the heart of London! Bring your family and friends to immerse themselves in a festive and multicultural atmosphere that will warm your hearts and create lasting memories. We look forward to seeing you all there!
Paraiso will participate in the dance procession at 2 pm and they will offer a FREE intro to Samba workshop for all families at 12:30 in the family village!
Mum and Son together
Melina and Adrian recently moved to London. They are a Brazilian family from San Pablo and would like to read a book that is close to Adrian’s heart as it related to his migration story. The name of the book is ‘A carta de Hugo’.
O Urso Hugo Está Triste: Tony, Seu Melhor Amigo De Todo O Universo Se Mudou Para Bem Longe. E Ainda Por Cima Está Se Divertindo Muito Ao Lado De Seus Novos Amigos. Junte-Se A Hugo Em Uma Grande Aventura Para Entregar Uma Carta Muito Especial E Garantir Que A Amizade Entre Ele E Tony Seja Eterna, De Verdade!
We are so lucky to have a popular Brazilian author coming to the Carnavalito to ready 3 wonderful books.
“A carta que transportava saudade”
“The letter that carried longing” is a children’s book for children who cannot heal their missing
emotions with hugs! It playfully talks about “saudade”, the feeling of missing something or
someone, and helps open the way for this delicate dialogue. This theme is essential for
immigrant families and also has lived in times of pandemic and social isolation! We must work
this out with our children and make them understand and name this feeling.
Publisher: Aquarela Livros
Link: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MaezonaShop
” O que tem no escuro da noite?“
What lurks in the dark of night? Does pitch hold so much mystery, or is it just our imagination
evolving along with fear?
This story revolves around what happens inside a child’s head at bedtime: creatively turn the
unknown into terror! Reality is very different and dull because there is no ghost wrapped in a
white sheet, a giant ferocious monster, or a witch with a large nose and extravagant hair.
The book opens up a chance for dialogue about the fear of the dark and all the reflections that
the night brings. Shall we read together and sleep in peace?
Publisher Ases da Literatura
“ Os mosquitos nos picam e a culpa é do Noé”
This story began thousands of years ago, right after Noah built that giant ark to house animals
and escape the great flood on Earth! This version is told by humans, right? But I bet you’ve
never heard the animals’ performance through the eyes of mosquitoes! A brawl, a rumble!
I don’t even tell you, or instead, I do! Let’s understand everything that happened on that vessel
and have a good laugh together!
I’ll tell you one thing immediately: If mosquitoes bite us and annoy us with their buzzing, they
have a good reason: IT’S NOÉ’S BLAME!
Publisher: Inverso
Author Biography:
Thais Braga
Communicator, writer, Brazilian, living in London, married and mother of 8-year-old Aurora, not
precisely in that order! I have a blog about motherhood, MãeZona, in which I explore the subject
of motherhood with humour. Adding all platforms, we are more than 170 thousand people
exchanging experiences.
My imagination runs wild, and when it comes to writing and telling stories, I feel my heart beat
faster! My first book, “The Letter That Transported Longing”, was well received by readers and
their families, so I decided to continue this endeavour in the publishing market. This time,
publishing a children’s humour book, “The mosquitoes bite us, and It’s Noah’s Fault”, re-reading
one of the most extraordinary tales of humanity to make people laugh, create fun memories
involving literature, and help them develop critical thinkers. This book is running for the Jabuti
Award in Brazil this year.
My third book, just released, is about the fear of the night and the fourth, which is on the way,
will be about learning disabilities, aiming to help children struggling at school.
I am excited about our reading on the 20th, I will have my three books with me, and you can
choose which one we will read and discuss. We will also have art and craft activities connected
with the “Letter that transported longing” book.
Hope to see you there for a fun day!If you want to know a little more about my work:
www.maezonanoblog.com
https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MaezonaShop
Instagram: @maezonanoinsta
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Carnavalito Family Village
Latin Hub has teamed up with Carnaval del Pueblo to develop a new Family Village ‘Carnavalito’ to offer families a new experience happening in Burgess Park this Sunday 20th of August starting 11 am! FREE ENTRY!
11:00
Open registrations to sing in Karaoke Party and get free circus tickets! (First come first serve- 11:00 to 12:30 pm)
Open registrations for Arts and Crafts Workshops (First come first serve- 11:00 to 3:00 pm)
Spanish bookshop and face painting stands open (11:00 to 4:00 pm)
Free henna tattoos for adults stand open (First come first serve- 11:00 to 4:00pm)
NHS bus and Community tent open (First come first serve-11:00 to 4:00 pm)
Football pitch opens (First come first serve-11:00 to 4 pm) Outside the gated area!!!
SELCE stands opens: save money and the environment at once! (First come first serve-11:00 to 4 pm)
Food stalls open for brunch!
11:30
Toddlers club and storytelling tent: traditional Latin American nursery rhymes and dancing (11:30-12:00 pm)
Brazil tent: Thais Braga session ( 11:30 to 12:30 pm)
Arts & crafts tent: Mosaic workshop for the family and Free drawing and painting for kids. (11:00 to 3:30 pm)
12:00
‘X’ tent: Eco games: learn about the environment while playing coordinated by SELCE. (12:00 to 1:00 pm) Trilingual! Spanish/Portuguese and English
Toddlers club and storytelling tent: Storytelling time: reading of a book in Spanish (12:00 to 12:30 pm) – Spanish
12:30
Toddlers club and storytelling tent: Various activities: playdough, small world, messy play. (12:30 to 1:30 pm) Bilingual Spanish/English
Brazil tent: Intro to Samba workshop by Paraiso School of Samba (12:30 to 1:00 pm) Bilingual Portuguese/English
12:45
Salsathon Stage: Karaoke Party. Come and sing along with your favourite Latin songs! (1:00 to 1:30pm) – Trilingual! Spanish/Portuguese and English
1:30 pm
Toddlers club and storytelling tent: reading of book in English (1:30 to 2:00 pm)- Bilingual Spanish/English
Brazil tent: Melina and Adrian read a Brazilian book called ‘A carta de Hugo’ that reflects on the impact of migration on children (1:45 to 2:00 pm) – Portuguese
X Tent :Collage workshop (1:00 to 2:00 pm)
2:00 pm
‘X’ tent Andean instruments and music workshop by Johnny F Rodriguez @Kausary (2:00 to 3:00 pm) – Bilingual Spanish/English
Brazil tent: Canto dos Mafagafos and Sabia Duvida will coordinate interactive kids entertainment with fun activities including games, fancy dress, songs and dance ( 2:00 to 3:00 pm)- Portuguese
Toddlers club and storytelling tent: Circle time: traditional Latin American nursery rhymes and dancing ( 2:00 to 2:30pm) – Bilingual Spanish/English
3:00 pm
‘X’ tent: Piñata and big Puppets visit including Paddington, Peter Rabbit and ‘El Cuye’ (3:00 to 3:30 pm)
3:30
‘X’ tent : Pub Quiz, test your knowledge on Latin American facts and will get a £50 voucher to be redeemed in a food stall ( 3:30 a 4:00 pm) Trilingual! Spanish/Portuguese and English
4:00
‘Arts and Craft’ tent: Collage workshop (4:00 to 5 pm) Bilingual Spanish/English .5 pm announcement of the winner of the ALAS Competition.
4:30 pm
Outside the gated area in the football pitch: Kicking competition. Give it your best shot and win a voucher of £50 to have the most delicious meal at Street Food Brazil! (4:30 to 5:00 pm) Trilingual! Spanish/Portuguese and English
Storey Telling Tent
A FREE story telling tent hosted by Piñata Bookstore @spanish.books.for.kids. Volunteers will read books in English Spanish and Portuguese.
Age: 2 to 18
Time: Book shop will be open from 10 to 4 pm. Stories programme to be confirmed
Toddler’s Club
FREE toddlers club, where the little ones (0-4) can play in a safe environment and engage in games and songs. Kindly sponsored by Tia Ana Nursery Parents are required to stay.
11:30-12:00-Circle time: traditional Latin American nursery rhymes and dancing
12:00-12:30- Storytelling time: reading of a book in Spanish
12:30-13:30-Various activities: playdough, small world, messy play
13:30-14:00-Story telling time: reading of book in English
14:00-14:30-Circle time: traditional Latin American nursery rhymes and dancing
14:30-15:00-Various activities: play-dough, small world, messy play
Arts & Crafts
FREE arts and crafts throughout the day for kids to express their creativity and enter ALAS arts competition!
Latin Hub wants to create a public mural in Maldonado Walk that will include ALAS (wings) and in some ways, represents the Latin American community in the UK. This is a co-creation with the community and some of the designs that come out from these workshops will be included in the final ‘feathers’ of the winds of the public mural.
Age: 3 to 15 Time: 11 am to 4 pm
Supported by United Saviours
Mini Football
Free mini football games for boys and girls!
Age: 3 to 16
Time: 11 to 4 pm
Prize kindly sponsored by Brazilian Street Food
Karaoke
FEE karaoke party! Kids and youth will get to sing their favourite songs in Spanish and Portuguese. Slots will be allocated on a first come first served basis. If you want to secure a slot you can email hola@latinhubuk.org.uk
Age: all ages
Time: 12:45 pm
Piñata
No Latin American party can take place without a Piñata! Make sure you don’t miss this fun tradition that extends from Mexico to Argentina.
Age: 2 to 12 pm
Time: 3 pm
Falamos portugues 🙂
We are so happy to have a record number of Brazilian participants in the Carnival this year including Paraiso School of Samba, Street Food Brazil, Canto dos Mafagafos e Mae Zona. Join our Brazilian tent for bilingual storytelling, samba workshops, singing and games!
Collage & Mosaic Workshops
FREE mosaic workshops! Families can get together to produce a work of art that will be part of a public mural, to be displayed in Elephant and Castle. Supported by Mayor of London. Untold Stories
FREE collage workshops where participants will draw and stick colours and images which are relevant to them and their cultural heritage. Supported by Julio Cesar Osorio @juliocesartist8
Age: Everyone ! — Time: 11 am to 4 pm
Dance Workshops
FREE dance workshops for the whole family (beginners) . Come and learn some salsa, samba or folklore!
Age: Everyone !
Time: All day
Supported by SalsaTeca, Paraiso School of Samba,
Face Painting
Face painting for kids and adults all ages. Will you choose animals, flowers or your country’s flag?
Age: Everyone
Time: 11 to 4 pm
Andean Music Workshop
FREE workshops to learn to play and make Andean instruments by Johnny F Rodrigez @Kausary
Ages: Everyone!
Time: 2 pm
Supported by Jhonny Kausary from @KausaryFusion One of the best Andean bands in Europe.
Food served from 11 am !
This year Carnaval del Pueblo has double it’s efforts to be able to offer high quality food that represents the diverse Latin American Cuisine at affordable prices.
Sunday brunch can include empanadas, arepas, pupusas, tacos, menestra, stake sandwiches, churros, ceviche, caldo de manguera, milanesas, cachapas, llapingacho, vegan food, cachapas, chorizos, halal food and more.
Henna Tattoos
FREE henna tattoos to experiment art in our bodies.
Age: adults only
Time: 11 a 4 pm
Supported by BLAS-Bolivian Latin Age Association
Health Advice
FREE NHS bus that will deliver #PrimaryCare #BloodPressure #WeightManagement #BreastScreening #StopSmoking #MentalHealth #SafeClinics #Vaccinations #DrugAlchoolismRecovery #HealthyStartProgramme #SouthwarkWellBeingHub
Age: everyone!
Time: 11 am to 4 pm
Coordinated by NHS -Partnership Southwark with the participation of Change Glow Charity
Board Games
Like board games? You can borrow one of our board games including chess and scrabble.
Age: everyone!
Time: until 3 pm
Community Tent
FREE Community Tent where visitors can learn about the services available such as housing, employment, community kitchens or benefit advice. Participating charities include LAWRS, Latin American House, Aymara, Latin American Disabled Peoples Project, and more!
Age: everyone!
Time: 10 am – 3 pm
Fun Fair
Ramp up your adrenaline in our fun fair! A wide variety of activities to keep all family members entertained.
Age: Varies
Time: All day
Pub Quiz
Test your knowledge on Latin American culture, sports and geography in a pub quiz and you may win some prices! Coordinated by APARU. Asociación de Profesionales Argentinos en el Reino Unido
Age: Everyone!
Time: 3:30 pm
Raffle
You could win:
A Flight to any Latin American destination thanks to the generous donation of Soliman Travel . Over the past 35 years they have taken thousands of satisfied clients to the region, from Mexico all the way down to Antarctica and looked after them while they’ve been there.
Three signed t-shirts donated by FIFA from profession football players.
Age: Adults only
Time: to be confirmed
Save money and help the planet at the same time!
One-to-one FREE, expect, independent energy saving advice from SELCE . SELCE helps people who are struggling with their energy bills, households who want to invest in greening their property, and organisations that are looking to become more sustainable.
#EnergyDebt #EnergyDiscounts #EnergyGrants #EnergySavingTips #SaveWater
Kids can also learn playing at The Guessing Game (how do I save more) or fight against contamination villains in a Tug of War.
Age: Everyone! Time: 11 am to 4 pm
And this is just Carnavalito !
Click on the Carnaval del Pueblo programme below
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My uncle is not Pablo Escobar
Existing is a visibility thing.
Review about “My Uncle is not Pablo Escobar” theatre play written by Valentina Andrade, Elizabeth Alvarado, Lucy Way, and Tommy Ross-Williams.
I know I am the new kid on the block writing about Latinx in the theatre scene in London, but I am happy to discover Latinx actors taking the stage in different communities. The Brixton House is one example of venues showcasing more Latinx stories. On this occasion, they hosted a play about the complexity of being an immigrant in the voice of four Latinx actresses and how one extraordinary life changing event challenged their status quo.
“Bro, believe me if you are confused, so am I”
A typical migration story goes, first we try to assimilate as much as we can into the culture we are living in. The goal is to adapt and survive. If you depend on a visa; it is also a visibility issue: the less you expose yourself, the better. This was my impression of the conflict between the characters from the Play “My Uncle is Not Pablo Escobar”. These characters are invisible to society; just trying to fit in; until an extraordinary event awakens then from that taciturn inaction to work together for the greater good of their communities back home so the events that occurred in the past, don’t happen again.
A well written and directed play performed by amazing actresses in dynamic rhythm. I could not keep my eyes away from the stage for an hour and a half. Also worth mentioning is how inclusive it was displaying subtitles in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Latin American stereotypes were discussed from within the community; another example of how Latinx are increasingly contributing to London’s cultural scene.
Tell me more!
“My Uncle is Not Pablo Escobar” is a theatre play written by Valentina Andrade, Elizabeth Alvarado, Lucy Way, and Tommy Ross-Williams. A nug shell for the play: four Latinx women risk everything to expose a multinational bank while they confront the audience with creative inserts games about what it means to be both Londoner and Latinx. You can check more information aqui
Review by Cristina Martinez
29/06/2023
Latin Hub UK receives funding from the Mayor of London
‘Aqui Estamos’ Exhibition Project has received £5000 from the Mayor of London’s Untold Stories fund, part of his Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm.
We want to create a contemporary mosaic mural that celebrates the diverse cultural heritage and contributions of Latin Americans to the UK. Bottom-up co-designing will highlight stories of resilience and success dispelling stereotypes that reduce our contributions to the entertainment and hospitality industries.
The funding is part of the £1m Untold Stories programme to champion diversity in the capital’s public spaces and ensure London’s landmarks and monuments reflect the achievements of all who have contributed to the success of our city. The grants offer Londoners the opportunity to develop ideas and share their stories which will be represented within the public realm.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, established the Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm to improve the representation of Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, women, LGBTQ+ communities and Deaf and disabled people and those from a range of socio-economic backgrounds in the public realm.
Romina Lopez, Latin Hub Founder said : “We are passionate about promoting visibility of our community because that leads to recognition from institutions and increased opportunities.”
ENDS