This definitive world music festival is well into its nineteenth year of performance, and still the cool cats of WOMAD never fail to keep the rhythm teeming deep into the night.
WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) has been an annual affair in Singapore since 1998, and has grown at a phenomenal rate from its inaugural debut as the curtain raiser for the Singapore Arts Festival.
 Now a standalone festival attracting hordes of devotees and newcomers alike, this is one event that must and will stay on our calendars, in the years to come.
Inspired by Peter Gabriel in 1980, the festival was founded based on enthusiasm for various forms of music from around the globe. The festival now acts as an indispensable platform for artistes, and at the same time raises awareness for social issues advocated by the music, such as racism and environmental concerns.
True to its aim, WOMAD Singapore has brought together scores of artistes over the past ten years, displaying varying genres yet all at the same time presenting to the audience an unforgettable experience.
Now in its tenth year, WOMAD Singapore has much to celebrate, and the festivities this year are definitely not to be missed. With acts from West Africa, Iran, United Kingdom and Japan, get ready to be astounded by rich, unique and mind-blowing forms of music.
The festival-goers will get to rock to the hard reggae tunes of the Asian Dub Foundation; be entranced by the soulful voice of Sheila Chandra; and be blown away by the exceptional sounds of the Oki Dub Ainu Band amongst many others.
If sitting on the comfortable grassy plains of Fort Canning Hill, listening to such breath-taking music is still not enticing enough, the festival promises other activities such as workshops, where the audience will get to mingle and interact with the musicians.
Other than enjoying and learning about the music, foodies out there will be delighted to know that the festival will have a corner dedicated for the tasting and sharing of recipes for various cuisines.
In another corner, the Global Village will boast other mouth-watering treats and colourful, exotic buys from the world over. If the hustle and bustle gets overwhelming, festival-goers can take refuge in the Holistic Area, where one can unwind and indulge in calming activities such rekki healing and palmistry services.
While we wait with bated breath till the festival opens on the 24th of August, NUS students are in for a treat. The Centre for the Arts has collaborated with WOMAD to host the opening show on campus at the University Cultural Centre.
Happening on 22nd August, the show promises to give us a great night of music and dance. With artistes from the actual festival performing, one can expect a night of great fun and aurally delectable sets.
Did we mention admission is free?
No excuses will suffice if you miss this golden opportunity to have a feel of the festival before indulging in the real thing itself.
With so much happening, August looks too good to be true.
More information on WOMAD here! HOOKED
Images courtesy of Google Images
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