Latest news with #CulturalEvents


Arab News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Zallal workshops in Diriyah celebrate calligraphy art
RIYADH: Arabic calligraphy is among the highlights of the Summer of Zallal events, held every Thursday and Friday in the Al-Bujairi District of the Diriyah governorate. Running through Aug. 30, the event offers interactive and creative experiences for visitors of all ages, according to a Saudi Press Agency report. The Arabic calligraphy workshops have become a popular attraction, offering visitors a unique opportunity to have their names written in a variety of traditional styles. Saudi calligrapher Ayman Al-Khadhra said that he inscribed visitors' names using various artistic styles of Arabic calligraphy, including Thuluth, Jeli Thuluth, and Diwani, as well as historic scripts such as Kufic. He noted that the enthusiastic engagement from attendees reflects a growing interest in preserving traditional arts, the SPA reported. The Zallal project stands as one of Diriyah's most prominent modern developments, covering a total area of more than 53,000 square meters. It features seven contemporary buildings housing upscale restaurants, cafes, and dedicated venues for cultural events and live performances.


Irish Times
20-07-2025
- Irish Times
Going to the Gaeltacht as an adult: All of the giddiness of a teenage trip with none of the awkwardness
For many, the ritual of heading to the Gaeltacht as a teenager holds fond memories of craic, ceol and céilí – even if the actual Irish classes weren't overly exciting. With the recent popularity in Irish language and culture – owed, in part, to Belfast rap trio Kneecap – you may be kicking yourself for not paying more attention when you were sent off to Irish college to brush up on your skills. What many don't know, however, is that you can actually take up a course in the Gaeltacht as an adult, which is exactly where I found myself in late June. Myself and a couple of friends registered for Gael Linn's Gaeltacht course for adults in Gaoth Dobhair, Donegal , booked a wee cottage beside Teach Hiúdaí Beag – known for it's Monday night music sessions with the owner himself taking part – and were on our way. The week's schedule is split between classes, social events, cultural evenings and trips to get the know the area – including a boat trip to Gabhla island which, in 2022, had a population of just 15. READ MORE A short trek around the island is an experience in itself – looking at the abandoned homes, walking alongside sheep and, in the quiet moments between conversations, listening to corncrakes cry with the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Hike to the north of the island and take in the views of the Sea Arches, which look like something out of the Algarve, as well as a memorial to two people who lost their lives in 9/11. The classes themselves, which are held in a University of Galway building in the area, are broken up into six different levels. You choose your ability and, if you feel it's not for you, moving between the classes is easy. In the evenings, locals and cultural figures tell stories, sing songs and talk about the history of the area. And, of course, afterwards it's to the pub to practice what you learned that day, get to know your classmates, listen to some local music or practice a few céilí dances. You'll find all walks of life on the course. In our group, there were children of Irish emigrants to England – proudly learning their mother tongue with an English accent – people from the likes of France or the US who found themselves living in Ireland and wanting to understand the national language, retirees, students from other countries who have picked up Irish and people like me, who work full-time but after the Leaving Cert , felt the ability to speak the language slipping away over the years. Seven sisters mountains The only shop Gabhla Island By the end of the week, you could be best of friends with someone decades your elder or from the other side of the country, exchanging numbers to keep in touch or share information about ciorcal comhrás and Irish-language resources. One of the week's highlights is a big course céilí on Friday night, where you'll be swinging out of people you've hardly spoken to and singing in front of a group of strangers despite not having a note in your head. Even this crow – or préachán, as Gaeilge – gave a rendition of Beidh Aonach Amárach with my new friend Colm and a bodhrán to accompany us. [ Grown-up Gaeltacht: 'The week I spent in Ring - the people I met, the culture - was the best thing I could have done' Opens in new window ] Yes, you will be pushed out of your comfort zone but who cares? With everyone there for the sole purpose of improving their Irish, there is no pressure or embarrassment if you get something wrong. As Ian Mac Gabhann, adult education officer for Gael Linn, put it on our last day, heading off to essentially a week-long summer camp is not something adults do. But, why not? Heading to the Gaeltacht as an adult has all the giddiness and none of the awkwardness of being a teenager, meaning you can brush up on your Gaeilge, make friends and have plenty of craic in the scenic setting of Donegal. Gael Linn's second adult Gaeltacht course of the season takes place in Gaoth Dobhair from August 10-16th, but it is booked out.


The Standard
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Standard
WestK teams up with Rolex on performing arts program
Paul Tam, second left, with chairman of the Performing Arts Committee at WKCDA Jat Sew-tong and Maxim Lamarre.


CTV News
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Halifax to get a taste of Italy
Halifax to get a taste of Italy Gusto Italian Festival promises to dish out a full serving of Italian culture in the heart of Halifax.


SBS Australia
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- SBS Australia
Filipino communities across Australia mark 127th Philippine Independence Day with celebrations nationwide
From major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane to regional areas including Ballarat, Wagga Wagga, and Launceston, Filipino communities are holding Independence Day events featuring flag ceremonies, food festivals, cultural performances, and gala nights. Several events are also honouring the legacy of Dr. José Rizal, coinciding with his 156th birth anniversary, alongside showcasing Filipino achievers, fostering pride in heritage, and recognising community contributions. Celebrations such as the Pista sa Nayon, Boodle Fight, and Barrio Fiesta not only reflect the strong unity among Filipino Australians but also serve as platforms for promoting Filipino culture to the broader Australian public. SBS Filipino 12/06/2025 05:39 📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino