The Cultural Scene: September-October

Pamela Ann Smith, who has been following the Middle East cultural scene for many decades, highlights some forthcoming events in London that might be of interest to readers  of this website.

Arabs are not funny

16 September, Rich Mix, Bethnal Green, London E1. Four comedians with roots in the Arab world showcase their talents in this welcome revival of a favourite night out. Prince Abdi, Talal Karkouti, Farah Sharp and Joe Haddad share their laughs in a spcae especially designed for safety as well as fun. Another version, featuring Janine Karouni, will take place on 15 October at the Royal Albert Hall. Details here.

The Dancers' Garden, by Alaa Satir

Until 26 September, The Mosaic Rooms, Earls Court, London SW5. This interactive art installatoin is specifically designed for children and their families to promote creativity, movement and sound, as well as encouraging families to play together. Satir's work came to prominence during the Sudanese revolution of 2018 when her large-scale murals of women participating in the upheaval reached online audiences around the world. Click here to find out more.

A journey across Yemen through food and craft

7 October, 75 Columbia Road, London E2. Yemeni cuisine reflects the country's rich history of migration and trade, blending Indian, Turkish and East African, as well as Arab, flavours. In this workshort, which is supported by ISHKAR, Fatma al-Baiti demonstrates how to make the kind of classic dishes she featurs in 'Meet me at Fatima's', London's Yemeni brunch club. Participants will also have a chance to buy some of the country's unque hand-carves stoneware pots that are made from natural soapstone. Find out more here.

Oum

16 October, Grand Junction, London W2. Casablanca's Moroccan diva mixes both traditional and vernacular Arab and Saharan sounds and lyrics with elements of contemporary jazz and soul music. This is why her concerts have universal appeal, reflecting our troubled world. Produced by London's Arts Canteen with support from Arab Women Artists Now (AWAN), tickets can be purchased here.

Bloomsbury - A Muslim history guide tour

17 October, Hombourn WC2. This year, the 10-day annual Bloomsbury Festival, which is centred in one of London's most historic and creating areas, features a walking tour of its connections with Islam and Muslims. Abdul Maalik Tailor has included the mystery of a vanished mosque, some secrets from the world-renouned British Museum, and the story of Noor Ayat Khan, a British heroine of World War 2. Tickets are free, but registration is required here.