LoginThe Metro: The Concert of Colors is creating new memories, honoring the past in 35th year
The Concert of Colors is celebrating its 35th anniversary and commemorating Ismael Ahmed, who co-founded the event and passed away earlier this year. Building on a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration, the festival organization is now led by Njia Kai.
“One thing Ismael was clear about is that we are all brothers and sisters, and that we should all take care of each other,” says Kai.
Dozens of musical performers and bands from around the world join Detroit-area artists on the festival lineup including Sheila E, The Don Was Detroit All Star Revue, Dengue Fever, Charity Ward, Kasan Belgrave, Steel Pulse and Martha Redbone.
Beyond music performances and a memorial for Ismael, there will be a community forum at the Majestic Theatre Complex presented by the Arab American National Museum. The conversation will be led by NPR’s Neda Ulaby. There will also be a grant writing workshop, youth programming, and a story circle at N’Nambi Center for Contemporary Art.
“We get to bring in all these interesting cultural, contemporary traditions, folks who are following age-old patterns that are true to their ethnic history,” Kai says.
Njia Kai, Concert of Colors festival organizer, joined The Metro to discuss this year’s festival.
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