Celebrating diversity and inclusion on stage

Om Shanti Om – Diversity Through Music is an all-singing all-dancing production created in partnership by Unity 101 and MAST featuring a whole host of talented local performers, including 14 Solent University students who will showcase their singing and dancing skills, alongside members of the community.

An ensemble cast of 60 performers are coming together to celebrate the music and movement of different cultures, from Bollywood and soul to R&B and jazz. Annie Sanger-Davies, Solent’s Performance Course Leader, says:

“We are excited to be collaborating with members of the community to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Southampton in a one-off performance at MAST. Our students have infused their passion and talent into the performance, embracing the opportunity to learn from the ensemble cast and work as part of a team.

“Opportunities like this are so important for giving our students a taste of what's to come in their creative careers, and we can’t thank Unity 101 enough for bringing us on board.”

Over the last 10 months, 20 singers and 12 dancers, including 14 Solent students, have worked closely with professional performers to hone their skills, giving students hands-on experience as they look ahead to their careers in the performing arts.

Solent University has enjoyed a long relationship with Unity 101, hosting their Community Hour, and finding opportunities to connect students with the station. Project and Station Manager at Unity 101, Ram Kalyan, says:

"It’s great to work with Solent University, as well as other local partners, who share our values of recognising talent, nurturing its growth, and providing a platform for individuals to showcase their abilities to the wider public.

“Om Shanti Om is going to be a special evening, one that provides a platform for local performers to share their talents with new audiences.”

Book tickets to see Om Shanti Om – Diversity Through Music at MAST Mayflower Studios on Saturday 18 November at mayflowerstudios.org.uk.

Find out more about Solent University's courses in the performing arts here.