Diwali Community Day

Join us on Saturday 11 November for our FREE Diwali Community Day from 12pm – 4pm. You don’t need to book a ticket – just turn up!

You’ll find an exciting selection of free activities taking place across the building, led by local South Asian artists including;

Centre for Indian Classical Dance – 12.15pm to 1.15pm

Dance leaders Karishma and Chandni will demonstrate & show the Ramayan story with a workshop open to all. Participants will learn to perform the short story relating to Ramayan describing baby Rama, portraying different characters using hand gestures & body moves. This interactive workshop performance will be an introduction to Kathak dance, its rhythmic technic & story telling aspects.

Following on from the workshop, Surmeet will bring the performance to a close with a performance of traditional Indian classical music.

Mr Shay – 2.30pm to 3.15pm

Mr Shay is a Leicester based poet and was titled Leicester’s first Poet Laureate in September 2025. Shay is influenced by social topics such as culture, heritage and identity. His poetry is a melting pot of intricate rap flows fused with South Asian roots. Off the stage, Shay works as a community arts practitioner, leading poetry, rap and music workshops with young people across the UK.

Aradhana Arts – 3.15pm to 3.45pm

Join Aradhana Arts for a unique live performance of Kathak dance with Tabla — a powerful combination of classical dance and live rhythm.

This special afternoon will be led by Jaymini Sahai, Artistic Director of Aradhana Arts, together with her students, bringing the beauty, energy and precision of Kathak to the stage.

Experience intricate footwork, expressive storytelling and exhilarating rhythm as live Kathak and Tabla come together in celebration of Diwali.

There will also be workshops led by The Dohl Players and Bollyqueer.

There’s something for everybody to enjoy – for all ages. Bring friends and family along and mark Diwali with us!