Imagine taking a trip around the world, experiencing different styles of music and dance as you hop from country to country.
Now, imagine you experience all this in one night in London.
The 12th annual King’s Cultural Festival took place on February 4th and featured traditional Irish, Scottish, Aboriginal and Chinese music as well as dance performances from seven different student groups with different cultural backgrounds. King’s vice principal Marilyn Mason says the world is well represented at King’s.
“We are so fortunate at King’s that we have nearly 500 international students. We have partners in India, China, Sweden, Singapore, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Germany, and many other countries that I’m sure I’ve missed.”
Dr. Sauro Camiletti is the academic dean at Kings and says the international community is a major part of the school’s identity.
“They connect us with our friends from far away and showcase the richness of diversity. They inspire us and remind us of our shared humanity.”
For the first ten years of the festival’s existence, it was held in a much smaller venue than where it is now.
“In fact, it was this celebration that inspired many of us to design this facility. This is only our second year here and it’s really fantastic.
Back in 1984, London city councillor Paul Hubert decided to live abroad in Latin America after graduating from Western.
“After leaving Canada, by dinner time I was sitting in a Costa Rican home. They didn’t speak English. I didn’t speak Spanish. And that began a two-and-a-half year journey of cross-cultural experience that literally shifted who I am, how I see the world, and the work I do on a day-to-day basis.
This is a common theme among those who have sent time living in foreign countries. The chance to absorb different cultures is a great way to expand your horizons and become more connected to the rest of humanity. Now, let’s get onto the performances, shall we? Check the video below for some of the great work put on by the volunteer students and faculty members.
