Cosmopolitan Voices is an innovative digital arts exhibition that offers a unique and immersive experience through the use of ambisonic sound and 3D images. The exhibition is focused on exploring the themes of racism and the experiences of four different cultures - Indian, Chinese, Caribbean, and African - within society. The exhibition aims to provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the diverse cultures that make up our society. To create an authentic and engaging experience, we have commissioned a talented group of artists to produce content that showcases each culture's unique perspective. The artists have used a combined arts approach, including visual art, music, and spoken word, to create a multi-dimensional experience that will transport visitors into the heart of each culture. Cosmopolitan Voices has been generously funded by Arts Council England and Leicester City Council, allowing us to bring this innovative exhibition to life. Through this exhibition, we hope to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of the diversity that exists within our community, and to challenge and combat racism in all its forms.
COSMOPOLITAN VOICES - INDIAN
This piece explores culture and racism of Indian people in the UK.
Akshay Shama (Mr Shay) - Performer, Spoken word, Writer and Musical Director
Andrew Price - Keys
Hari Trivedi - Tabla
Kaviraj Singh - Singer and Musician
Jamal Sterret Phoenix - Dancer
Keith Allott - Filmmaker
Amanda Leandro - Producer and Director
COSMOPOLITAN VOICES - AFRICAN
This piece explores culture and racism of African people in the UK.
Momodou Sallah - Poet, Performer and Co-Director
Ayolah Hanley - Singer
Jelly Kebba Susso - Musician and Holly dancer
Keith Allott - Filmmaker,
Amanda Leandro - Producer and Director
The Tribal Dance is based on the title poem from Momodou Sallah's book "The Dictator and the Heretic".
COSMOPOLITAN VOICES - CHINESE
This piece explores culture and racism of Chinese people in the UK.
Ling Peng - Musician and Performer
Jane Chan - Dancer
Michael Lau - Performer
Andy Barratt - Writer
Keith Allott - Filmmaker,
Amanda Leandro - Producer and Director
COSMOPOLITAN VOICES - CARIBBEAN
This piece explores culture and racism of Caribbean people in the UK.
Lisa Millett - Composer, Programmer, Editor, Vocalist, Producer
Dave Anderson - drums
Adrian Blissett - bass
Stan Samuel - guitar
Mike Sole - piano
Audley ”Makka” Millett - spoken word on “Are We Awake? Part 1 - Proverbs”
Alerick “Barber Joe” Davis - spoken word on “Are We Awake? Part 3 - Travellers’ Refuge” & “Are We Awake? Part 5 - How It Was”
Martin Whiteman - Mixing & Mastering
Keith Allott - Filmmaker
Amanda Leandro - Producer and Director
Are We Awake? Is dedicated to Nora “Betty” Millett, the late Joe Davis and the Caribbean community of Leicester.