Free Lunchtime World Music Series Launches at The Hub in Lichfield
Residents and visitors in Lichfield are invited to enjoy a midday cultural escape with the launch of Home at the Hub, a new series of free lunchtime concerts showcasing world music and vibrant international artists. This initiative aims to bring diverse musical traditions directly to the heart of Staffordshire, offering a unique opportunity to experience global sounds without any cost.
Millicent Chapanda: Blending Tradition with Contemporary Themes
The series will commence with a performance by Millicent Chapanda, a British-based Zimbabwean artist renowned for her multifaceted talents as a Shona cultural performer, traditional mbira player, percussionist, singer, dancer, and storyteller. Her music is deeply rooted in Zimbabwean traditional ceremonies, where spiritual and secular elements intertwine to foster community, devotion, praise, reflection, and celebration.
Millie's artistic mission extends beyond entertainment; she is dedicated to amplifying the lived experiences of women in Zimbabwe on the international stage. While her work delves into ancient cultural heritage, she boldly addresses contemporary issues such as gender equality and the challenges faced by women both in the diaspora and back in her homeland. This fusion of tradition and advocacy lends her performances a distinctive and powerful edge.
An Immersive Shona-Style Celebration
A performance by Millicent Chapanda is described as a Shona-style celebration that invokes dancing ancestral spirits through the trance-inducing notes of the mbira. The experience is enhanced by the deep rhythms of ngoma drums and the lively sounds of hosho shakers, creating an immersive auditory journey. Millie herself encapsulates her approach by saying, "The only way I can describe what I do is that I love our music… it brings people together, and we just forget about everything else!"
Event Details and Practical Information
The inaugural concert, titled Home: Millicent Chapanda, is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, starting at noon. Admission is completely free, and no tickets are required, making it accessible to all. However, capacity is limited and will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is recommended to secure a spot.
To enhance the experience, The Hub's coffee shop will be open both before and after the concert, providing refreshments for attendees. Latecomers will be admitted only if space permits, and all guests are respectfully requested to minimise noise during the performance to ensure an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.
Enriching Lichfield's Cultural Landscape
Anthony Evans, The Hub Creative Director, expressed enthusiasm for the new series, stating, "We're delighted to be introducing Home, our series of free lunchtime events, but especially excited to be bringing some fabulous world music into the heart of Lichfield. Come along and experience these amazing sounds for yourself." This initiative underscores The Hub's commitment to enriching the local cultural scene with diverse and engaging performances.
For more information about The Hub and its upcoming events, interested individuals can visit the official website. The venue is located in Lichfield, Staffordshire, offering a central and convenient setting for this exciting addition to the area's artistic offerings.
