http://www.richmix.org.uk/whats-on/even ... -damascus/
Al-Kindi Ensemble: CANCELLED
Tue 22 October CANCELLED
Rich Mix, Arts Canteen and Zamzama Productions regret to announce the cancellation of the upcoming performance of the Al-Kindi Ensemble with the Whirling Dervishes of Damascus on Tuesday 22nd October 2013.
Those who have already purchased tickets will be contacted shortly to arrange a refund. Anyone interested in finding out more about the Al Kindi Ensemble and potential future dates should sign up for the newsletter at http://www.artscanteen.com.
Rich Mix and Arts Canteen have issued the following statement:
The Ensemble, who were due to perform at Rich Mix in London and then go on to a Womex showcase in Cardiff and Aberdeen University, have been declined UK entry visas. Audiences in Paris will be able to see them on Monday 21 October at the Café de la Danse. This European tour was planned to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the founding of the Ensemble. The musicians have been to London on previous occasions, with sell-out performances in major venues.
Organisers of the London gig, Aser El Saqqa of Arts Canteen and Oliver Carruthers of RichMix said:
"We know how disappointed everyone will be, especially those who have already bought tickets. It would have been a very exciting show for London which is usually known to be an open, welcoming city for artists. What’s sad is that their music is part of a long tradition of peaceful exploration of the relationship between people and spirituality - a tradition that is increasingly under threat in Syria."
Website - http://www.artscanteen.com, http://www.zamzama.n
