REFUGEES are big news nowadays, often for the wrong reasons.
But Tufproductions are a group of artists who have flown from embattled Zimbabwe to settle in Leeds who came with nothing but the desire to create culture from their chaos.
After a poignant and moving play about the horrifying conditions they left behind, their second production is being hailed as a life-affirming and joyous celebration of the traditions that they valued in Africa.
And you can see it at Shelley Village Hall on Sunday, April 20.
The family musical acts like a tour guide – with the audience experiencing the rural villages where adults work in the fields and where young girls fetch firewood and water while boys herd the cattle and goats.
Towns and mines where many of the adults found a wage will also be portrayed.
All the while the rhythm of the African life will beat as Djembe drums, shakers, whistles and cowbells accompany singers.
An explosion of traditional dances will be performed to show the peaceful childhood before the bloodshed shattered the peace of Zimbabwe.
The production begins at 3pm and there are a strictly limited number of places for an earlier workshop where participants will be able to use the instruments and will be taught the dances and songs.
Tickets £8 adults (performance only) and £5 concessions, £10 adults for workshop with performance (£6.50 concessions), includes refreshments.
Tickets available from Shelley Stores, Shelley Post Office, Lydgate Styles or ring 01484 604486.
