Arts festival celebrating 'by-passed' Asian community

Organisers of a South Asian arts festival in Newcastle-under-Lyme expect a week-long celebration to open the theatre's doors to the Asian community.

Sensasian begins on the 9th July with a night of comedy, followed by music, dance, magic and family fun organised by Appetite and the New Vic.

Organiser Val Bansal said he knew first-hand how intimidating it could be for Asian people in north Staffordshire to visit the theatre.

"I've been to some plays and thought, 'I'm the only Asian person here!'" said Mr Bansal.

Comedians Sukh Ojla, Nabil Abdulrashid, Tommy Sandhu and Raj Poojara (left to right) will be hoping for big laughs at the New Vic on 9th July

Sonia Sabri Company will perform Roshni, a high-octane show which includes music from India, Spain and Persia.

"It's a real connector with people from all walks of life," said artistic director Ms Sabri. "It's global music and that's a real speciality of our show."

Britain's Got Talent star and award-winning magician, Ben Hart, has developed his show Jadoo from exploring his cultural heritage in India.

"I got into magic because I heard a story from my grandparents about seeing a travelling street magician - that was the thing that captured my imagination."

The event will culminate with a free family event on Saturday 13th July including henna painting, performance and Banghra workshops.

"Hopefully this will help them to go to other events."

Appetite Director, Gemma Thomas, said this festival is the 'biggest invitation' to the whole community of North Staffordshire.

"We're here because people weren't engaging in the arts very regularly. If this is your first time, we're expecting you! We want to give you the warmest welcome."