Bristol’s African film festival, Afrika Eye, takes place this weekend at Watershed with a great line up of African cinema, live music and discussion inspired by revolutionary developments in North Africa.
The range of films and events demonstrate how music and song – as well as political events – can affect democratic change.
Afrika Eye opens on Friday night with Sing Your Song, a powerful reflection on American singer Harry Belafonte’s life in music, acting and the fight for democracy and civil rights. After the film, which starts at 8.30pm, visitors can get on the dance floor at the opening party where music maestro Hassan Erraji and his fusion band will be playing Moroccan-influenced beats.
The festival continues over the weekend with a documentary on politics in Ghana (An African Election), the premiere of Bristol-based exiled Zimbabwean director Simon Bright’s investigation into Robert Mugabe (Robert Mugabe . . . What Happened?), the regional premiere of a passionate documentary about the Tunisian revolution (No More Fear) and much more.
At 7pm on Saturyda, between the screenings of An African Election and Robert Mugabe . . . What Happened?, Lord Paul Boateng, the former Chief Secretary to the Treasury and British High Commissioner to South Africa, will speak on the challenges and opportunities for democracy in North and sub-Saharan Africa as part of the festival.
For the younger audience there’s a music documentary (Mwe Bana Bandi – for children between six and 10) that follows two school boys in the Zambian village of Wapamesa on a typical day during the harvest.
After the film, there’s a chance to take part in a free workshop with Zimbabwean musician Cecilia Ndlovhu where participants can make music using everyday objects.
Watershed has a special offer of buy four tickets and get the cheapest one free on all Afrika Eye events – and double points for Watershed loyalty card holders.
Bristol Business News is proud to be a media partner of Afrika Eye.
