To mark the opening of ‘Only the future revisits the past’ as part of PHOTO 2024, and taking inspiration from the works of exhibiting artist Omar Victor Diop, Gracieuse Amah of Kwabo (Welcome) Events invites you to experience an adaptation of Kwabo Festival Showcase 2023 and participate in an interactive Afrodance workshop. Founded in 2018, the KWABO Festival originated from Gracieuse’s migration experience and isolation. KWABO Festival is not just an artistic showcase but a movement inspiring communities to actively participate, celebrate diversity, and forge connections and friendships beyond traditional boundaries. This is a free event suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Date & Time: Saturday, March 2nd 2024

4pm - 6pm: Kwabo Showcase Celebration

4pm: Afrodance Workshop

6pm - 8pm: Exhibition Opening

Venue: Centre for Contemporary Photography

Malthouse Theatre presents Labrish, the community program for the season of The Hate Race, a theatrical adaptation of Maxine Beneba Clarke’s bestselling memoir, starring Zahra Newman and accompanied by musician Kuda Mapeza.  Co-directors Tariro Mavondo & Courtney Stewart.

An exploration of the complexities of race and the search for belonging, Maxine’s story exposes the realities of growing up the child of Black migrants in a predominantly white society.

Labrish is an activation of workshops and musical spoken word events surrounded by community elevation, mental health resources and access to discounted tickets. It is designed for people who identify as African diasporic, First Peoples, people of colour and underrepresented creatives. 

Kwabo Events will perform a dance piece exploring notions of cultural identity and representation in celebration of African diasporas greatness and contribution.

Back by popular demand we are return with 2 of your favourite vibes together for another freestyle afro dance workshop in a fun environment! Join us as Grace from Kwabo Events returns to bring her unique skill and energy to your Afro-Influenced house music day party. All ages and levels welcome, just come and give it a go! Its free too, but spots for the class are limited so make sure to book and reserve your spot. Eat afterwards from The Real Jerk Food Truck and then kick on with Afrocan Days for an action packed day party featuring the finest in Afro influenced house music. Don’t miss it!!

Produced by Gracieuse Amah, Founder and Creative Director of Kwabo Events, KWABO Festival is returning to Melbourne in 2024! Expanding throughout the years. 2024’s edition will be full of surprises!!!

Founded in 2018, Kwabo Festival became in 2023 an event celebrating the power of coming together as one. Amplifying the voices of BIPOC individuals, the festival showcases participants’ cultural stories and traditions through arts and culture. Our cultural identity is our strength and richness and a crucial piece in shaping the collective. You all have a role to play in writing the our collective story of belonging. 

Learn more and stay in the know.