Southampton's Unity 101 community radio celebrates diversity

More than 20 singers and 40 dancers from across Hampshire and Dorset will take part in the show

A music event organised by a community radio station will celebrate diversity and showcase local performers.

Om Shanti Om, organised by radio station Unity 101, will take place at the Mast Mayflower Studios in Southampton, Hampshire, on 18 November.

It will feature more than 20 singers and 40 dancers from across Hampshire and Dorset.

Project manager Ram "Kelly" Kalyan said he had "always believed" there was local talent.

Preparations started 10 months ago when Mr Kalyan, who is also the radio station manager, invited locals to audition for the show.

Project manager Ram Kalyan believes in nurturing local talent

The aim is to bring the various Southampton communities together through music, he said.

It will also showcase local hidden talent because the participants have day jobs outside performing arts.

Mr Kalyan said: "What we need to do is help and nurture local talent and guide them to realise their potential."

Kangli Fu wants to promote Chinese culture and music to the Western audience

Kangli Fu, who works as a therapist but has always loved singing, said she took part to promote Chinese music and culture.

"Living in the UK, I rarely hear a lot of Asian and Chinese songs," she said.

Professional Italian singer Nalia is "excited" to be part of the Om Shanti Om show

Nalia, who is originally from Naples in Italy, said Mr Kalyan was the "soul of the show" and she was "super excited" about the project.

She was a professional singer in Italy but moved to Southampton where she works as a primary school teacher, to be with her husband.

"It's amazing as I'm making new friends," she said of the show.

Choreographer Sanjeev Mishra is bringing his experience to the music show

Choreographer Sanjeev Mishra has danced with some of the most well-known Bollywood actors when he was in India.

"I have done three stage shows with Salman Khan," he said, adding: "We used to go to his farm house and practice for stage shows.

"It was an amazing time. It's nice to have the chance to dance again."

Follow BBC South on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail].