(Pictures: Simple Reflections Collective)
The Simple Reflections Collective is set to return for the sixth edition of Forest City Fusion Festival with 2 events (Youth Showcase and Fusion Festival) promising to bring a dynamic mix of new and returning talent to the heart of London, Ont. This year’s event is notable for its emphasis on collaboration, with artists and musicians from various genres and backgrounds joining forces to create unique, cross-cultural performances. “Let’s cultivate youths, we look forward to welcoming the new generations of artists, musicians, and dancers to support our local talent”, says Darío Novoa, founder of Simple Reflections Collective and events planner.
Africa DRC Music Band
“The difference this year is there will be a lot of new artists and musicians. But the uniqueness this time is the fusions; they’re working together,” he says. This focus on collaboration has allowed the collective to grow steadily, attracting more participants and audiences in each version. The event will feature a diverse lineup, including Africa DRC Music Band, a duo from Congo, and the Suyai Duo, a group that has flourished within the collective.
Returning performers include flamenco dancers and mariachis, adding a familiar yet vibrant touch to the festival. According to Novoa, 95% of the musicians, artists, and dancers return, evidence of the strong sense of community and creative energy fostered. “It’s a mix of different media of arts, kind of like expressive, it’s just all in one. The biggest change is that London is starting to know what Simple Reflections is all about, and people are just coming to celebrate year by year,” he adds.
The impact of Simple Reflections extends beyond the arts, contributing to the cultural fabric of London. Novoa highlights the inclusive nature of the collective, which welcomes members from various cultural backgrounds. “Through the collective, the impact culturally is beyond expectations. We have people from different parts of the world, who make London their home. It doesn’t matter where you are from, there’s a space for everyone as a team to come out and express what they love.”
“This event is for everyone. If you have any talent or want to be part of it, you can reach out, come out, and support others. Let’s support our local talent because if we embrace it ourselves, the community will get stronger, we can do anything. Let´s create a safe and cultural space where people can express themselves freely and celebrate the rich diversity of London’s artistic community,” he concludes.
The Youth Showcase will be held on Friday, August 16th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Fusion Festival is on Saturday, August 17th from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m.
