The 4th edition of the inclusive arts festival “Todos Fest!” will take place from April 12-21, local art organisation Comuna de Pedra (“Stone Commune”) said in a statement this week. The Portuguese word “todos” means “all”, “every” or “everyone”.
The statement noted that the festival will feature performances, film screenings, rehabilitative workshops, a multimedia experience and an inclusive market at the former Iec Long Firecracker Factory in Taipa throughout the event period, aiming to unite local and Hong Kong artistes, local volunteers, seniors and individuals with physical and mental disabilities.
The statement underlined that the festival is a component of Sands China’s Community Revitalisation Series and is supported by the Cultural Development Fund.
Festival curator Jenny Mok (莫倩婷) was quoted by the statement as saying: “Comuna de Pedra has joined with local community groups for years to open theatres for all – including individuals with physical and mental disabilities, as well as the elderly. With substantial experience and observation, we encourage local minority groups to explore the body’s possibilities, look back to their past, listen to their hearts and express themselves through theatre.”
“Life Is a Dream,” performed by the cast of The Journey of My Story Community Project, takes a delicate storytelling approach, interweaving the cast’s personal experiences with fear, depression, dreams, sorrow, joy, and reflections on life and death, the statement points out.
A multimedia performance of “Caretaker” will feature original score recordings from the theatrical production, delving into the heartfelt stories of caretakers from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, according to the statement. “Screenings with Heart” provides an array of films that invite viewers from all walks of life to gain a deeper understanding of an inclusive society.
The “Forget-me-not” workshop for care professionals, led by Hong Kong medical practitioner Kerry Cheung, offers local care professionals a first-hand exploration of how dance can infuse vitality into the lives of individuals with dementia. The workshop aims to offer its participants practical experience and understanding of the underlying theories and knowledge behind the practices, the statement noted.
In the spirit of inclusivity and connection, the Inclusive Market at Todos Fest! welcomes local organisations from diverse communities to showcase their products and share their missions and efforts, according to the statement
The Post has conducted several interviews with Comuna de Pedra, two of which were published on November 29 and September 20 last year. These interviews specifically highlighted productions featuring fringe groups within society.
For ticketing and more details about the festival’s other programmes, visit http://hk.mikecrm.com/3BBEsSX
This poster provided by Comuna de Pedra promotes the inclusive art festival Todos Fest!
