Bangladesh @ 50: Celebrating Together will feature vibrant music and dance, poetry, stories, food, craft sessions, short film and discussion events highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the country.

This colourful family day provides visitors with the chance to visit an exciting art and photographic exhibition at MAC’s Garden Studio a peaceful brand-new space. Featured artists include Hanna Ihsan whose paintings are inspired by nature and architecture and Tagore in the light of Rembrandt by the award-winning photographer Pablo Khaled.

The Foyle studio will host readings from Sampad’s My City My Home ahead of its forthcoming publication including writing by women from Birmingham and Bangladesh. This event will also feature leading spoken-word artists and poets of Bangladeshi origin. This engaging session will culminate in a panel discussion, accompanied by samosa and tea.

Sampad Director Piali Ray OBE said “We are extremely excited to be working with MAC to present this wonderful FREE event to mark the fiftieth anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence. This is a great way to bring adults and children from all communities together to share a packed day of events that will be fun, educational and entertaining.”

The event provides plenty of activities for children including arts and crafts and a special family show taking place on the MAC Terrace.

Deborah Kermode, MAC’s Chief Executive Officer added: “We are honoured to be hosting Bangladesh @ 50 led by Sampad Arts. The one-day festival will be a huge celebration to mark the fiftieth year of Bangladesh’s independence, bringing together all members of our local community. We’re proud to be showcasing Sampad’s rich programme, with creative activities for families, performances from renowned Bangladeshi artists and dancers, and an exhibition inspired by the country’s social and cultural heritage.”

The Sunday event will culminate with an evening celebration showcase filled with music, song, dance and theatre in the stunning new Outdoor Theatre. The event will be hosted by Samiha Mahamud and Tarek Chowdhury.

The showcase features dance from Bangladeshi dance performer Sonia Sultana and dancer, performer and teacher Showmi Das, as well as a Dhamail Dance segment (Bengali folk dance) from Purbanat; live music from talented Bengali singer Jessy Barua, and one of the UK’s most popular Bangladeshi performers Gouri Chowduhry.

Audiences can also look forward to performances of traditional Bengali Baul and Biyer Geet with portrayals of wedding rituals and tradition through a live presentation.