(MENAFN- The Peninsula) By Raynald C Rivera / The Peninsula
Qatar's Al Maha Folkloric Group raised the curtain on the second Cultural Diversity Festival presented by the Cultural Village Foundation - Katara in cooperation with Unesco Office in Doha with the aim of promoting cross-cultural understanding through a vibrant showcase of songs and dances providing a window into the rich and varied cultures of countries all over the world.
The troupe enthralled the crowd at Katara Amphitheatre with their rendition of traditional Qatari maritime songs, among others, as well as dances with the accompaniment of native percussion and stringed musical instruments
It was followed by a spirited performance by the Palestinian Ambassadors for Folklore troupe who staged a medley of traditional dances and songs in their traditional costumes to the delight of the audience.
Both performers were well applauded by the audience which included ambassadors and representatives of various missions, officials and VIP guests, among others. Palestinian Ambassador Munir Ghannam was among the ambassadors who attended the opening event with Katara Deputy Manager for Operations Ahmad Al Sayed welcoming the audience.
The Deputy General-Manager of the Cultural Village Foundation-Katara, Ahmad Al Sayed (third left) and other officials at the opening ceremony of the Cultural Diversity Festival at Cultural Village Foundation-Katara yesterday. Pic: Kammutty V P / The Peninsula
Launched last year, the annual festival is based on the premise that cross-cultural understanding is crucial in the promotion of human dignity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence. It is a vital part of the Intercultural Dialogue and Cultural Diversity Programme of Unesco. In this regard, this year's performers come from more than 20 countries from various continents.
For over a month, the festival will see dynamic cultural performances by artistes from Qatar, Palestine, Lebanon, Algeria, Ethiopia, Togo, South Africa, China, South Korea, Pakistan, Iran, Chechnya, Turkey, Hungary, Germany, Slovakia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, United Kingdom, Mexico and Brazil.
The festival provides a way of deepening understanding on the diversity of people from different regions of the world as it brings together custodians of musical tradition and performing arts.The festival, which is open to the public, runs until November 11 at the Katara Amphitheatre. Another Qatari folkloric group will perform tonight. The festival plays an important role in promoting intercultural dialogue and cultural diversity in Qatar within the context of the International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013-2022) - a commitment to addressing the need for actions against violence and intolerance, and principles such as human dignity, conviviality and solidarity.
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