Rhythms of the World

Charity Awards

Using art to celebrate diversity and community

"Anything that makes people smile and feel united must be a good thing," says a contented festival-goer after attending the 2008 Rhythms of the World music festival.

Rhythms of the World (ROTW) is a volunteer-run charity dedicated to fostering a sense of community by playing host to a music festival in Hertfordshire every July.

The festival acts as a stimulus for arts in the region, an outlet for the energies of young people, and a platform for meaningful exchange between different age, race, ability and economic groups.

Originally organised by Oxfam, the inaugural ROTW music event took place in 1992. When Oxfam ceased its involvement, a small group of local volunteers took over the management. Since then, the event has evolved into one of the biggest world music festivals in the UK with over 120 acts and 25,000 people in attendance.

“Over time it became clear that the festival not only put Hitchin, Hertfordshire and the South East region on the map but, more importantly, enabled people of all ages to experience music from around the world,” says Cath Cole, head of income at ROTW.

As the festival grows, ROTW will be looking to raise more money throughout the year and achieve greater community involvement.

“For many, Rhythms of the World was the only way they would be exposed to these genres of the arts,” says Cole. “We soon learned the arts were a powerful vehicle to unite people and the festival was an excellent way for people to enjoy one another’s cultures.”

Miss Cath Cole
Volunteer, Head of Income
PO Box 121
Hitchin
Herts
SG5 2WB
01462 642 497
www.rotw.org.uk
Reg no: 1090835

Rhythms of the World

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