East Meets West To Celebrate Diwali in Wellington

The Multicultural Council of Wellington is bringing a spectacular world-class Diwali celebration to the Wellington public. Musicians and dancers from Malaysia will perform this Fusion Music and Dance Odyssey on 8 November in a show that combines the best of modern and classical rhythm.

Raveen Annamalai, President of the Multicultural Council of Wellington, says that, "this event will bring the people of Greater Wellington together to understand and respect each others' different cultural values. The performance will cultivate a better understanding of Malaysia's rich heritage and foster a closer relationship between people of both our nations."

The performers include Samuel J Dass whose prowess on the Sitar is world renowned and tabla maestro Prakash Kandasamy who leads the rhythm section of the band. The performance will include a wide range of captivating dances, ragas and rhythm patterns. This is the first time the Multicultural Council of Wellington, the NZ Police, Multicultural New Zealand and four Wellington Indian communities have collaborated to celebrate Diwali. These include the Wellington Indian Society, Wellington Mutamizh Sangham Society, Wellington Tamil Society and the Wellington Fijian Indian Association.

Inspector Rakesh Naidoo, National Strategic Ethnic Advisor of the NZ Police, says that, "important events such as Diwali celebrate New Zealand as a kaleidoscope of multiculturalism, peace and unity. These events facilitate police sharing key safety messages and an opportunity for our communities to hear about a career with Police. The presence of White Ribbon will raise awareness about the important role men play in speaking out and not tolerating violence towards women."

We would be very grateful if you could please help us to promote East Meets West prior to the event. You are also very welcome to attend to report on the event. Two of the performers, Sam Jabamalai & Prakash are available for interview from 4/11/2015. Both speak fluent English. Please contact Raveen Annamalai who lives in Johnsonville, Wellington for an interview and for media tickets to attend East Meets West, Mob. 021 196 1967. Attached is the publicity poster. A promotional flier, songs and photos are at https://www.facebook.com/MCWellingtonNZ.

Event Details
A Diwali Celebration. East Meets West – A Fusion Music and Dance Odyssey.
Wellington Indian Cultural Centre, 48 Kemp Street, Kilbirnie, Wellington

Sunday 8 November, 2015 from 3.30pm
Ticket Details: https://www.facebook.com/MCWellingtonNZ

ENDS

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