Connect with us

We Speak Events

Uniting Christian Creatives: The Inaugural CLEAN Festival Comes to Accra This December

Published

on

This December, Accra will host the inaugural CLEAN Festival, a groundbreaking event celebrating the intersection of Christian faith, African culture, and the arts. Scheduled from December 20th to 28th, the festival aims to bring together Christian creatives from across West Africa, the diaspora, and beyond. Through various artistic expressions, attendees will explore their faith while fostering a deeper connection to their heritage.

The vision for the CLEAN Festival is encapsulated in the phrase “Christ’s Creatives Chilling.” It offers a space for creatives to meet, network, and fellowship in a relaxed atmosphere. The initiative also addresses pressing cultural and spiritual trends, particularly among younger generations of African heritage, who are increasingly reconnecting with their traditional roots. While this renewed interest in heritage is enriching, it has sometimes led to religious pluralism or syncretism—a blending of indigenous practices with Christianity. Additionally, there is a misconception that the arts are incompatible with Christianity or African identity, with some even labeling Christianity as “the White Man’s religion.” CLEAN seeks to challenge these narratives by creating a space where attendees can explore the synergy between African culture and Christian faith. The festival also highlights the rich history of Christianity in Africa, demonstrating its deep-rooted presence on the continent.

The festival’s mission includes building a community of Christian creatives, engaging in meaningful conversations about art and Christianity, exploring the relationship between Christianity and African traditions, and showcasing diverse art forms such as fashion, literature, and film. These objectives are woven into the festival’s lineup of key events.

The festival kicks off on December 20th with “Christ and Canvases” at Ten25, a hands-on artistic expression day where participants can enjoy food and painting with a stunning view of the skies. On December 27th, “The Brunch” at Nouveau Accra offers an opportunity to eat, network, and connect with creatives and others interested in art and Christianity. The festival culminates on December 28th with the “Expo” at Jambo, an exhibition and networking event showcasing diverse art forms, including fashion, literature, and film. The Expo will also feature panel discussions and interactive opportunities for attendees to engage with the themes of the festival.

CLEAN will delve into key themes such as Christianity’s presence in public spaces versus its representation in visual arts, addressing why Christian influence is prominent in West African society but less visible in the visual arts. The festival will also foster discussions on integrating African culture and Christian faith without compromising core Christian principles. Additionally, it will explore the historical relationship between Christianity and creativity, drawing inspiration from Western contexts and encouraging a similar narrative for African artists.

CLEAN invites artists, creatives, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of faith and culture to join this unique movement. For more information and updates, visit the official website.

For inquiries, contact Kweku Bimpong at admin@cleangh.com or 0551429835. Stay connected with CLEAN on social media: Instagram, X (@projectcleangh), Facebook (@CleanGH), and LinkedIn.

We Speak Events

Wonderama Wonder Games Take Over Times Square With Music, Games, Esports and a Full Day of Family Fun

Published

on

— Times Square is about to become one enormous playground as Wonderama brings the Wonder Games to the Crossroads of the World on Tuesday, August 25, for a day packed with live music, games, dance, esports, special presentations and the joyful family entertainment that has made Wonderama a beloved name for generations.

The Wonder Games will transform Times Square into a celebration of young talent, creativity, competition and entertainment, bringing together performers, families, gamers and special guests for an exciting day in the heart of New York City.

The festivities begin early with an 8:00 AM call time and sound check, followed by cameras rolling at 9:00 AM. The morning will include Wonderama promotional segments, artist interviews and activity around the stage as Times Square prepares for the official launch of the Wonder Games.

One of the major moments of the morning takes place at 10:30 AM with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the FENIX360 reveal announcement and the official Wonder Games press conference. The presentation will also introduce the Empire State Esports Federation and AbleGamers, bringing gaming, technology, competition and inclusion into the Wonder Games experience.

The morning will also feature a Wonderama Wonder Award recognizing Senator Richard Blumenthal for his work on the Kids Online Safety Act, adding an important message about protecting children online to a celebration centered around young people and their futures.

At 10:45 AM, the Wonder Games officially kick off with the Quad Squad and an Empire State Esports Federation showcase in the competition tent located in Duffy Square. David Osmond will be hosting the festivities 

Then Times Square turns up the music.

Beginning at 11:00 AM, FENIX360 artists will take over the Wonderama Music Live Stage for a series of seven performances continuing through 12:45 PM. Among the artists scheduled to be part of the celebration is Renee Leavitt, Kylie Marshall, Kiki Kramer, Alyssa Abate, Miss Ali’s Dance Troop, Briannagh D & Cassidy, Jorday Riveras Dance Studio, joining an exciting lineup of emerging and established talent performing before the crowds of Times Square.

The live music component gives artists an extraordinary opportunity to perform on one of the most visible stages in the world while becoming part of a much larger Wonderama celebration devoted to discovering, encouraging and showcasing talent.

Following the musical performances, the Wonder Games continue with dance performances beginning at 1:15 PM. The afternoon gets even more playful with Circle of Pies from 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM, followed by Bucket Head Splat from 2:45 PM to 3:45 PM.

Wonderama host David Osmond is scheduled to close that portion of the festivities at 4:00 PM, followed by Chuckie and Alisa making a Broadway League Kids Night announcement from the stage between 4:00 and 4:30 PM.

Throughout the day, Chuckie and Alisa will also be working with the ENG crew conducting artist and esports interviews, while Wonderama Music Live and Wonderama promotional segments will be filmed throughout the event.

With live performers, dancers, esports competitors, games, awards, interviews and television cameras all converging in Times Square, the Wonderama Wonder Games promise something for virtually every member of the family.

More than simply a day of competition, the Wonder Games represent what Wonderama has always done best: giving young people a place to dream, participate, perform, laugh and discover what might be possible.

On August 25, Times Square won’t simply be one of the busiest places in the world. For one unforgettable day, it will be Wonderama’s playground.

Continue Reading

Trending