Kahani Arts CIC celebrates British Asian creativity through theatre, music, and community projects that connect, inspire, and empower. Here’s a look at some of our recent highlights:
Go Create – Developing Local Writers
We launched Go Create to support emerging South Asian writers in Ilford. Ten writers each received a £500 commission to develop new short plays, chosen from over 30 applicants who responded to our open call on social media and local press.
Each writer received one-to-one dramaturgical and creative mentoring, plus two collective rehearsal and sharing sessions at Kenneth More Theatre. Beyond the commissions, Go Create built a thriving network of local artists who continue to collaborate and grow together.
Four of the pieces were showcased by Redbridge Drama Centre during Women’s Week, and several writers have since secured further development with other arts organisations.
Creative Workshops for Young People
To inspire younger voices, we ran a week of creative workshops during the October 2021 Half Term at Kenneth More Theatre. Over 50 children aged 6–15 took part in sessions led by professional facilitators, covering:
- Storytelling
- Songwriting
- Creative Writing
- Indian Percussion
- Singing
The week culminated in a joyful sharing performance, giving every child their moment in the spotlight.
Back in the Daytimer
Supported by Arts Council England, Kahani ran a week-long Research and Development lab for Back in the Daytimer — a new musical blending theatre, music, and memories of British Asian youth culture. The process ended with a lively sharing session at Kenneth More Theatre, gathering feedback from peers and collaborators.
Live Music
Kahani Arts proudly produces and manages Botown – the UK’s leading Bollywood Soul band, fusing Indian film hits with Funk and Rock. Touring nationally, Botown brings people together through rhythm, joy, and unity — providing work for eight musicians and spreading a message of multicultural harmony.
We also support Ajay Srivastav, a British-born Indo-blues artist whose music of protest, faith, and identity has topped the iTunes Blues charts. Kahani has helped release his first two acclaimed albums, expanding the reach of authentic British Asian storytelling through song.