The 32nd edition of the Mindelact festival, themed "Raiz," is set to take place in Cabo Verde from November 2 to 7. The festival, which celebrates 90 years of the Claridade movement, aims to reconnect with the country's roots and cultural heritage. According to José Bettencourt, vice-president of the Mindelact Association, the theme is a nod to the significance of Claridade in Cabo Verde's history and literature. The festival will feature a range of performances, workshops, and events that showcase the country's rich cultural diversity.
The Claridade movement, which was founded in 1936, played a pivotal role in shaping Cabo Verde's literary and cultural landscape. The movement's emphasis on promoting a deeper understanding of the country's history, culture, and identity resonated with many Cabo Verdeans. The Mindelact festival, which was established in 1990, has become a platform for celebrating the country's cultural heritage and promoting artistic expression. This year's edition, themed "Raiz," seeks to revisit the country's roots and explore its relationship with the world.
The festival's program includes a range of performances, including theater, music, and dance shows. The event will feature six nights of performances on the main stage at the Centro Cultural do Mindelo, with shows starting at 9 pm. Some of the highlights include "Amontoados" by Mindelact and Teatro Griot, "Quando a Gente Ama" by Palavra Z Produções Culturais, and "Frágil" by Compañía Nómada. The festival will also feature a range of off-stage events, including workshops, debates, and exhibitions.
In addition to the main stage performances, the festival will also feature a range of off-stage events, including shows at different venues around the city. These events will include performances by local and international artists, including Naziyr, Kind of Black Box, and Flávia Gusmão. The festival's off-stage program aims to bring the arts to different parts of the city and engage with local communities.
The Mindelact festival has become an important platform for promoting Cabo Verde's cultural heritage and supporting local artists. However, the festival's organizers face significant challenges, including securing funding and resources. According to José Bettencourt, the festival's budget for this year is around 17,000 contos, and the event relies heavily on the support of local and international partners.
Despite the challenges, the Mindelact festival continues to thrive, with a growing reputation as one of the leading cultural events in Cabo Verde. The festival's focus on promoting local culture and artistic expression has helped to establish it as a key event in the country's cultural calendar. This year's edition, themed "Raiz," promises to be an exciting and thought-provoking celebration of Cabo Verde's cultural heritage.
The festival's impact extends beyond the event itself, with many participants and attendees citing the festival as a source of inspiration and creative stimulation. The Mindelact festival has also helped to promote cultural exchange and understanding between Cabo Verde and other countries, with many international artists and performers participating in the event. As the festival comes to a close, it is clear that the event has once again played a vital role in promoting Cabo Verde's cultural heritage and supporting local artists.
Key points
- The 32nd Mindelact festival celebrates 90 years of the Claridade movement and its impact on Cabo Verde's culture and literature.
