The Lotus World Music & Arts Festival showcases a variety of musical talent from across the globe.
This year’s event, the 22nd edition of the festival, will feature 27 performing artists from 22 countries, from the Americas to the Republic of Georgia, according to the press release.
The annual festival runs from 6:30 p.m. to midnight during the Friday and Saturday events from Sept. 24 to 27 for those who purchase a wristband.
According to the release, events include an opening concert Thursday night, free access to the Arts Village through the weekend and a special Lotus exhibit.
The international music and art exhibits are not the only features that make this festival distinct.
On Sept. 25, the Mabuhay! Philippine Cultural Community will perform the Filipino harvest dance in the Art Village.
The Ivy Tech John Waldron Arts Center will have an exhibit, titled “Seeing Red: World Textiles,” running during this time as well in close proximity to the festival.
The final event of the weekend is the World Spirit Concert. Purchase of a $5 Lotus Festival pin allows admission to this event.
The proceeds from this event, according to the release, will benefit Lotus’ year-round outreach efforts.
This year’s pin design comes from Vincent Desjardins.
According to the release, the assortment of music includes something for every taste.
The lineup even includes a few musical mixes that create categories all their own.
Genres represented include Ethio-jazz and soul grooves, French-Chinese swing and Bhangra-Celtic fusion, among many others.
The Kick-Off Concert on Thursday night, according to the release, will take place at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater.
Grammy winner Buckwheat Zydeco of the United States will perform his Louisiana sound alongside the Nordic style of musiciansfrom Finland, Denmark and the United Kingdom.
The closing event, also held at the Buskirk-Chumley, will welcome Maarja Nuutof Estonia and imdi Ensemble of Turkey.
Another popular festival event, Lotus in the Park, is free and open to the public, according to the release.
This particular Lotus staple includes musical performances in Waldron, Hill and Buskirk Park, as well as nine interactive workshops in two pavilions.
Lotus in the Park also includes the opportunity for younger festival goers to make their own kid-friendly art pieces.
One of the state’s first bicentennial events, “Indiana Folk Art: 200 Years of Tradition and Innovation,” will also take place during this year’s Lotus Festival.
This event is curated by Traditional Arts Indiana.
The festival is looking for volunteers, and those interested are encouraged to look online at the Lotus Festival webpage for opportunities.
Sanya Ali
