BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Counterpoints - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Counterpoints
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Counterpoints
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:Europe/London
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20250330T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20251026T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20260329T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20261025T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20270328T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20271031T010000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260409
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260419
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260330T163029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T142923Z
UID:10000611-1775692800-1776556799@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Uprooted
DESCRIPTION:Ieva Sudargaite Douaihi presents new work in response to a time of mass displacement in Lebanon\, continuing the twinning and solidarity between OUTPOST in Norwich and Takeover Beirut. \nThe photographic prints featured in this exhibition will be available for purchase\, with all proceeds donated to Buzuruna Juzuruna. \nLocated in the Bekaa Valley\, Buzuruna Juzuruna operates a vital heirloom seed library and educational farm. Their work mirrors the themes of this exhibition: a commitment to the native landscape and a refusal to let the roots of Lebanese ecology be swept away. They have been chosen not only for their immediate impact but for their long-term mission to secure a sustainable\, local future for the region’s agriculture. \nCounterpoints first worked with OUTPOST last October to present work by Maria Proshkowska as part of Platforma 2025\, and we are delighted to be able to collaborate again to bring this important new exhibition to the UK. \nIeva Saudargaite Douaihi is a transdisciplinary artist working at the intersection of photography\, architecture\, and material research. Rooted in an ongoing exploration of vernacular landscapes\, memory\, and overlooked ecologies\, her practice spans image- making\, spatial interventions\, and hybrid objects composed of found objects\, natural matter and household materials. Drawing on her background in architecture and a deep sensitivity to ecological and social entanglements\, she engages with overlooked spaces and slow processes of growth\, decay\, and adaptation. \nThrough layered relationships between nature\, memory\, and the built environment\, Douaihi explores how spaces carry histories\, absences\, and the potential for renewal. Her work gives form to questions of permanence\, access\, and belonging—unfolding as quiet gestures that trace the ways in which people and places shape\, resist\, or intertwine with one another.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/uprooted/
LOCATION:OUTPOST Gallery\, 10b Wensum Street\, Norwich\, NR3 1HR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Visual Arts
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot-2026-03-30-at-17.19.12.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260409T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260409T173000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260313T131349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T131425Z
UID:10000601-1775750400-1775755800@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:The (De)Colonial Legacy of the 1932 Cairo Congress
DESCRIPTION:Panel Discussion with Kamilya Jubran\, Hazem Jamjoum\, Tarek Beshir and Gülçin Özkişi\nThe panel brings together musicians\, scholars and archivists to reflect on the legacy of the 1932 Cairo Congress from a contemporary MENA perspective\, as part of Beyond 1932. Moderated by Rim Irscheid\, panelists Kamilya Jubran\, Hazem Jamjoum\, Tarik Beshir and Gülcin Özkişi discuss how the Congress continues to shape ideas of authenticity\, notation\, preservation\, and musical modernity today. \nDrawing on creative practice and research\, the panel will explore the political\, colonial\, and archival dimensions of this historic gathering and its ongoing impact on music-making and knowledge production in the region. \nThe panel takes place on Thursday 9 April\, 4–5.30pm in the Pyramid Room at King’s College London (War Studies Department)\, followed by a drinks reception. \nThe event is free and open to all\, registration is required. \nCounterpoints has been partnering with the Beyond 1932 \, helping to connect events and podcasts with our networks.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/the-decolonial-legacy-of-the-1932-cairo-congress/
LOCATION:KCL\, Pyramid Room\, King's Building\, London\, WC2R 2LS\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Learning,Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/swehm5uqdldhul3b51eo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260412T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260412T123000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260407T091221Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T042800Z
UID:10000613-1775989800-1775997000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:To Re-Cite: Ayat al-Kursi - Sound\, Faith\, and Collective Listening
DESCRIPTION:We warmly invite you to a workshop as part of the wider development of our newly co-commissioned project with artist Aliaskar Abarkas\, exploring sound\, music\, and listening through faith and collective experience. \nThe session brings together members of our community with Muslim backgrounds to share ideas\, and reflections on how sonic practices – from recitation and prayer to breath\, rhythm\, and silence – shape spiritual\, emotional\, and communal life. The starting point of the project is the Quranic verse Ayat al-Kursi\, whispered across generations\, transmitted as both lullaby and sonic protection. \nThis session is the first in a series of workshops forming part of a longer-term project. \nFurther confirmed sessions will take place on: Sun 26 Apr\, Sun 17 May\, and Sun 31 May. \nAliaskar Abarkas is an Iranian artist based in London. \nRooted in alternative and communal art education\, his practice stages choreographic encounters that move from individual elements into collective expression. Often in dialogue with historical sources\, Abarkas builds collaborative frameworks that invite participants to interpret and activate inherited scores through music\, exhibition\, and performance-making. \nHe is currently an Associate Artist at Sadler’s Wells / Rose Choreographic School (London\, 2024–26) and Lead Artist at Autograph Gallery (Acts of Solidarity\, in partnership with All Change\, London\, 2025–28). He holds a BA in Visual Cultures from the University of Tehran and an MA in the Theory of Contemporary Art and Politics from Goldsmiths\, University of London. Previous residencies include Cubitt Gallery and the Swiss Church (London)\, as well as Rupert (Lithuania)\, the Institute of Postnatural Studies (Madrid)\, Castro (Rome)\, Open School East\, and Syllabus V (UK)\, among others. \nHis work has been supported by institutions including the Barbican Centre\, ICA\, The Mosaic Rooms\, TACO!\, Pushkin House\, LUX (London)\, CAPC (Bordeaux)\, LOCALES (Rome)\, Scuola Piccola Zattere (Venice)\, and CIRCA. Upcoming projects include commissions and collaborations with Arts Catalyst (Sheffield)\, YDP Foundation (London)\, and the Singapore Art Museum. \nCo-commissioned by Counterpoints Arts and Whitechapel Gallery. \nImage credit: Anne Tetzlaf
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/to-re-cite-ayat-al-kursi-sound-faith-and-collective-listening/
LOCATION:Clore Creative Studio\, Clore Creative Studio\, Whitechapel Art Gallery\, 77-82 Whitechapel High St\, London\, E1 7QX
CATEGORIES:Community & Participation,Sound Art,Visual Arts
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Photo-credit-©-Anne-TetzlafDSC01760-1170x655-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260413T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260413T133000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260217T120244Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T141349Z
UID:10000597-1776078000-1776087000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Beyond a Joke - report launch
DESCRIPTION:Counterpoints Arts is delighted to be co-hosting the launch of Beyond A Joke – Comedy and Social Change in the UK\, by Sam Beale\, supported by Unbound Philanthropy.\nDr Sam Beale is a comedy director\, writer\, teacher and researcher. She is a co-founder and co-director of Palestine Comedy Club (PalCom) and founder/ director of Funny Side Collective. \nTo celebrate and advocate live comedy as a tool for positive social change\, Beyond A Joke explores how comedy initiatives are building communities\, reducing social exclusion and improving mental health\, and examines the effectiveness of using humour as part of social justice campaigns. \nThe launch event will feature a presentation of the report plus a panel discussion from experienced comedy and social change practitioners:\n– Performer\, facilitator and story-maker\, Yasmeen Audisho Ghrawi\n– The Comedy School Founder/Director\, Mr Keith Palmer MBE\n– Critic\, K. Biswas\n– Report author\, Dr Sam Beale \nChaired by Laith Elzubaidi (Counterpoints Arts) \nLight lunch will be served. \nThe report features projects and organisations currently working in the sector\, to identify existing good practice\, and considers opportunities for expansion and key challenges for the field. It is divided into three themed areas\, highlighting the principal ways that comedy and collective laughter can be catalysed for social change: \n\nComedy and community;\nComedy\, recovery and resilience;\nComedy and campaigning.\n\nIllustrative examples are loosely gathered under these themes with some crossovers. To support the report’s interpretative overview of the field\, each section includes the insights and reflections of comedy creators\, and providers and participants of ongoing projects. These identify current applications and impacts of comedy for social change practices and the skills\, methods and approaches. \nThe launch is an invite-only event. If you would like to attend please email hello@counterpoints.org.uk \nDownload Beyond A Joke (pdf)
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/beyond-a-joke-report-launch/
LOCATION:Shaftesbury Theatre\, 210 Shaftesbury Ave\, London\, WC2H 8DP\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Comedy
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/BAJ-report-cover-image-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260414T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260414T120000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260330T144238Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T145225Z
UID:10000610-1776162600-1776168000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Take Part in Refugee Week
DESCRIPTION:A partnership event exploring Refugee Week 2026 \n\n\n\n\nJoin this event to learn more about Refugee Week and the intersection of arts\, mental health and displacement with Counterpoints Arts. \nRefugee Week is the world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions\, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Refugee Week 2026 will take place from 15–21 June and will explore the theme Courage\, marking the 75th anniversary of the Refugee Convention. \nThe session will include a case study and practical guidance on embedding good mental health practice when planning Refugee Week events or working with people from displaced backgrounds. \nSign up to the event here  \nThis event is a partnership between Counterpoints Arts and a collective of UK creative health networks: The Culture\, Health & Wellbeing Alliance; London Arts and Health; Arts\, Culture\, Health & Wellbeing Scotland; the Wales Arts\, Health & Wellbeing Network; the Northern Ireland Creative Health Network and Arts Care. \n\n\n\n\nAgenda\n\n\n\n10:30 AM – 10:40 AM \nWelcome & housekeeping\n\nCHWA\n\n10:40 AM – 10:55 AM \n\n\nAbout the Week\n\nCounterpoints\n\nAbout the Week – and how you can take part \n\n\n10:55 AM – 11:05 AM \nCase study\n11:05 AM – 11:20 AM \n\n\nCounterpoints + Mental Health Guidebook\n\nCounterpoints\n\n11:20 AM – 11:45 AM \n\n\nDiscussion & Q&A\n11:45 AM – 12:00 PM \n\n\nClosing remarks
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/take-part-in-refugee-week/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom\, via Counterpoints 128 Hoxton Street\, London\, N1 6SH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Refugee Week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Courage.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260426T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260531T123000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260422T121201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T121201Z
UID:10000614-1777199400-1780230600@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:To Re-Cite: Ayat al-Kursi - Sound\, Faith\, and Collective Listening - workshops
DESCRIPTION:We warmly invite you to a workshop as part of the wider development of our newly commissioned project with artist Aliaskar Abarkas\, exploring sound\, music\, and listening through faith and collective experience. \nEach session brings together members of our community with Muslim backgrounds to share ideas\, and reflections on how sonic practices — from recitation and prayer to breath\, rhythm\, and silence — shape spiritual\, emotional\, and communal life. The starting point of the project is the Quranic verse Ayat al-Kursi\, whispered across generations\, transmitted as both lullaby and sonic protection. \nThis is a series of workshops forming part of a longer-term project\, with sessions taking place on Sun 26 Apr\, Sun 17 May\, and Sun 31 May. Please book each session individually. \nTo Re-Cite is co-commissioned by Counterpoints Arts and Whitechapel Gallery for Backyard Biennial.\n \n\nBook workshops in these dates:\nSun 26 Apr 2026\, 10.30am – 12.30pm; book HERE\nSun 17 May 10.30am – 12.30pm; book HERE\nSun 31 May 10.30am – 12.3; book HERE\n \nAliaskar Abarkas is an Iranian artist based in London. \nRooted in alternative and communal art education\, his practice stages choreographic encounters that move from individual elements into collective expression. Often in dialogue with historical sources\, Abarkas builds collaborative frameworks that invite participants to interpret and activate inherited scores through music\, exhibition\, and performance-making. \nHe is currently an Associate Artist at Sadler’s Wells / Rose Choreographic School (London\, 2024–26) and Lead Artist at Autograph Gallery (Acts of Solidarity\, in partnership with All Change\, London\, 2025–28). He holds a BA in Visual Cultures from the University of Tehran and an MA in the Theory of Contemporary Art and Politics from Goldsmiths\, University of London. Previous residencies include Cubitt Gallery and the Swiss Church (London)\, as well as Rupert (Lithuania)\, the Institute of Postnatural Studies (Madrid)\, Castro (Rome)\, Open School East\, and Syllabus V (UK)\, among others. \nHis work has been supported by institutions including the Barbican Centre\, ICA\, The Mosaic Rooms\, TACO!\, Pushkin House\, LUX (London)\, CAPC (Bordeaux)\, LOCALES (Rome)\, Scuola Piccola Zattere (Venice)\, and CIRCA. Upcoming projects include commissions and collaborations with Arts Catalyst (Sheffield)\, YDP Foundation (London)\, and the Singapore Art Museum. \n\nImage: Reverberance\, Living Rehearsing\, YDP\, London\, 2026. Photograph: Anne Tetzlaff
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/to-re-cite-ayat-al-kursi-sound-faith-and-collective-listening-workshops/
LOCATION:Clore Creative Studio Whitechapel Gallery\, Clore Creative Studio\, Whitechapel Art Gallery\, 77-82 Whitechapel High St\, London\, E1 7QX
CATEGORIES:Community & Participation,Sound Art
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Photo-credit-©-Anne-TetzlafDSC01760-1170x655-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260512T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260512T163000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260320T143116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T134821Z
UID:10000603-1778581800-1778603400@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Spaces of Care; Migration\, Museums & Mental Health
DESCRIPTION:We are thrilled about this interactive event with the Migration Network\, MultakaOxford and Counterpoints Arts at the Museum of Making in Derby. \n\n\n\nSpaces of Care a free day-long\, in-person event kindly hosted by the Museum of Making in Derby. This event is intended for those working with migration and intersecting themes in museums\, heritage sites and cultural spaces. It’s particularly for those working across the Midlands and South Yorkshire – to ensure opportunities for connection and potential collaborations. \nThere will be opportunities to hear from the organisers\, engage with a carousel of story-sharing activities\, share your own work\, and network and connect with each other. \nDuring the day we’ll explore key questions like: what are the motivations for everyone involved? How do we do it? What is successful and what challenges are we facing? What is the impact and what consequences do we need to consider? \nIf you would like to attend please email maren@counterpoints.org.uk
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/spaces-of-care-migration-museums-mental-health/
CATEGORIES:Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Museum-of-Making-and-the-River-Derwent-c-Derby-Museums-2021.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260518T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260518T123000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260427T150017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T150400Z
UID:10000615-1779098400-1779107400@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Critical Hope - Creativity and Wellbeing Week launch
DESCRIPTION:Join us in person to hear from Creative Health sector experts from across the country as part of Creativity and Wellbeing Week 2026 organised by London Arts and Health. Our Arts\, Refugees & Mental Health producer Maren will be one of the panelists for this important conversation. \n\n\n\nDay one of Creativity and Wellbeing Week sets the tone for the national programme under the theme of Critical Hope for Acute Times. The theme acknowledges the increasing precarity in the health and care sectors including the impending NHS redundancies\, ongoing instability in funding for Creative Health and the rising pressures linked to planetary health and climate change. Hear from cutting edge speakers\, network and re-energise at this free event to kick start our festival for 2026. \nRead more about the festival theme\, Critical Hope here. \nThis event will gather the sector in a space of critical hope\, reconnecting practitioners with their passion and inviting visions for the future of Creative Health. You can expect exciting panel discussions\, Q&A\, artistic activity and networking. \nAt the National Theatre. London Arts & Health anticipate the event to sell out with practitioners\, NHS colleagues\, artists\, funders and policy makers joining to mark the opening of the festival. \nAll attendees will be able to take home a unique Critical Hope badge created by the Badge Cafe! \nFeaturing: \n\nChair and host: Thahmina Begum\nAnna Woolf: London Arts and Health\nYamin Choudury: National Theatre\nEmmanuella Morsi : Artist\, Production Manager and Researcher\nMaren Ellermann: Counterpoints Arts\nDan Hopewell: Bromley By Bow Centre\nDr Simon Opher MP: Chair of the APPG on Creative Health\nRachel Millward: Deputy leader of the Green Party of England and Wales\nWith resident artist from Hoxton Hall: Aaron Appiah-Anderson\n\nAbout the venue: \nArrive from 10am in the foyer of the National Theatre and follow the signs for the event which will take place at the Buffini Chao Deck. You can purchase a hot drink to bring up from the cafe to enjoy during the event. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible. \nGet your tickets here \n 
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/critical-hope-creativity-and-wellbeing-week-launch/
LOCATION:National Theatre\, National Theatre\, Upper Ground\, South Bank\, London\, London\, SE1 9PX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creativity & Wellbeing Week,Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Critical-hope.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260531T194500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260531T210000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20251209T174137Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T174137Z
UID:10000587-1780256700-1780261200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Footnote x Counterpoints Prize Readings
DESCRIPTION:Meet the finalists for the £15\,000 Footnotes x Counterpoints Fiction Prize for writers from refugee and migrant backgrounds who shine a light on today’s most pertinent topics. \nThe writers reflect on themes of displacement\, belonging\, courage and creativity both in the selected works and more broadly\, touching on highly relevant themes that shape our lives and society. This event brings together the shortlisted authors ahead of the announcement of the winner in June\, who will be selected by a judging panel composed of prominent writers. \nPresented in association with Counterpoints Arts and Footnote. \nBooking via Southbank Centre \nShortlist to be announced in early May. \n 
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/footnote-x-counterpoints-prize-readings/
LOCATION:Purcell Room\, Queen Elizabeth Hall\, Southbank Centre\, London SE1 8XX
CATEGORIES:Literature & Spoken Word
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-09-at-17.33.51.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260615T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260621T000000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260401T162538Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T162824Z
UID:10000612-1781481600-1782000000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Refugee Week 15-21 June 2026
DESCRIPTION:Refugee Week is the world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions\, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary.\nEstablished in the UK in 1998\, Refugee Week is co-ordinated by Counterpoints Arts and takes place every year around World Refugee Day (20th June). It has grown into a global movement with over 2 million participants\, across over 20 countries. Through an exciting programme of thousands of events\, activities and media campaigns\, Refugee Week brings together people from different backgrounds to connect beyond labels\, and foster a deeper understanding of why people are displaced\, and the challenges they face when seeking safety. \nRefugee Week 2026 will be 15-21st June with the theme of Courage. \nBy providing a platform for people who have sought sanctuary to share their experiences\, perspectives and creative work on their own terms\, our vision is for refugees and asylum seekers to be able to live safely within inclusive and resilient communities\, where they can continue to make a valuable contribution. \nThis year\, Quentin Blake’s joyful illustrations will sit at the centre of the Simple Acts campaign — a series of nine everyday actions anyone can take to show solidarity with refugees and help build more welcoming communities. Blake’s bright\, playful drawings will appear on postcards\, posters and other materials for communities\, schools\, libraries \, arts organisations and individuals to use at their own events. \nRead more about Refugee Week\, including how you can take part.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/refugee-week-15-21-june-2026/
CATEGORIES:Refugee Week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-01-at-16.57.48.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260616T182000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260616T193000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260427T210611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T202618Z
UID:10000616-1781634000-1781638200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Allies In Exile + Q&A
DESCRIPTION:The London Premiere of a new film by Hasan Kattan and Fadi Al-Halabi\nDirector: Hasan Kattan \nUK-Syria 2026. 40min \nEvent includes a Q&A with Hasan Kattan \nSyrian filmmakers Hasan Kattan and Fadi Al-Halabi experienced and documented the atrocities of the war in Syria. After entering the UK\, they find themselves part of the asylum process\, wondering whether their new lives will ever become a reality. \nMade as part of the Displacement Film Fund launched by UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Cate Blanchett\, and co-produced by Counterpoints Productions\, this moving first-person documentary explores the power of cinema to bring refugee stories to the big screen. \nContains scenes of war and graphic violence or injury. \nPresented by BFI Southbank as part of their Refugee Week programme. \nFull information and tickets
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/allies-in-exile-qa/
LOCATION:BFI\, Belvedere Road\, London\, SE1 8XT\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Film,Refugee Week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/allies-in-exile-01.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260619T181000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260619T200000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260427T211120Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T202706Z
UID:10000617-1781892600-1781899200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Khartoum + discussion
DESCRIPTION:In this moving documentary\, a collective of filmmakers capture the lives of a people caught up in a conflict that has ravaged Sudan.\nDirectors: Rawia Alhag\, Ibrahim Snoopy\, Anas Saeed\, Timeea M Ahmed\, Phil Cox \nUK-Sudan-Germany-Qatar 2025. 80min \nThe screening will be followed by a discussion. \nA civil servant\, a tea lady\, a resistance committee volunteer and two young bottle collectors. Five Khartoum residents from different walks of life\, share their experiences of conflict and exile after escaping the Sudanese capital following a military coup and the outbreak of war. The filmmakers – also displaced by the war – weave together a personal and insightful film comprising footage shot prior to the escape\, staged reenactments\, and stories of migration and survival\, highlighting the human cost of this conflict. \nContains scenes of war and graphic violence or injury. \nPresented by BFI Southbank as part of their Refugee Week programme\, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). \nFull details and tickets
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/khartoum/
LOCATION:BFI\, Belvedere Road\, London\, SE1 8XT\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Film,Refugee Week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/khartoum-01.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260626T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260626T205000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260324T155827Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T125814Z
UID:10000607-1782502200-1782507000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:It Sounds Like Courage: Music and Solidarity
DESCRIPTION:A celebration of music and spoken word shaped by migration – brought together by courageous creative talents for Refugee Week.\nCo-curated by Southbank Centre with Anoushka Shankar and Counterpoints Arts\, It Sounds Like Courage brings a unique blend of artists who stand in solidarity with displaced people all over the world. \nFull details and booking via the Southbank Centre website. \nConnected by the unifying theme of ‘courage’\, the night features music and poetry born from generations of migration\, mapping the sounds and creativity that grew out of resistance movements. \nFeaturing artists with lived experience of displacement\, musicians with migrant heritage and high-profile allies in the fight for justice and equality\, It Sounds Like Courage is a night to imagine new possibilities together\, with community and solidarity at its centre. \nHosted by comedian Nish Kumar\, with performances from singer and flautist Nai Barghouti with the London Contemporary Orchestra\, Mozambican rapper MoYah and spoken word from Nikita Gill and Salena Godden\, with more to be announced. \nThis event sits at the heart of Refugee Week during our 75th anniversary year and is presented by Southbank Centre in partnership with Counterpoints Arts. \nAnoushka Shankar. Photo by Laura Lewis
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/it-sounds-like-courage-music-and-solidarity/
LOCATION:Royal Festival Hall\, Southbank Centre\, SE1 8XX
CATEGORIES:Music,Refugee Week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Email_1-4d0e5aae-1e64-4cf2-ad83-b0851f283ce5.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260627T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260627T150000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260324T144234Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T155705Z
UID:10000606-1782568800-1782572400@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Counterpoints Lecture with Elif Shafak
DESCRIPTION:Global bestselling writer and renowned activist Elif Shafak explores whether creativity can help heal our divided world in the inaugural Counterpoints lecture.\nFor this first iteration of the annual Counterpoints lecture\, Shafak explores how imagination and artistic practice shape our understanding of the world. \nFull details and tickets from Southbank Centre website \nShafak reflects on the link between creativity and courage\, and how creativity can open paths to belonging\, imagination and collaboration in times of conflict\, fear and political division. \nDrawing on academic\, literary critic and activist Edward Said’s concept of the ‘counterpoint’ perspective of displaced people\, Shafak considers how artists from regions affected by war\, violence and political extremism can offer vital insights and new ways of seeing\, questioning and imagining. As part of this\, Shafak unravels the idea of ‘storyland’ as a motherland. \nElif Shafak is an award-winning and highly acclaimed British-Turkish novelist whose work has been translated into 55 languages. The author of 21 books\, including 13 novels\, she is a bestselling author in many countries around the world. \nShafak holds a PhD in political science and is President of the Royal Society of Literature and a Public Humanities Fellow at the School of Advanced Studies (SAS). She is a leading voice on freedom of expression\, women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights. \nPart of Southbank Centre’s Refugee Week 2026 programme\, presented in partnership with Counterpoints Arts. Refugee Week is a nationwide festival celebrating the contributions\, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Inspired by refugees\, the theme this year is ‘courage’. \nPhoto by Ferhat Elik
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/counterpoints-lecture-with-elif-shafak/
LOCATION:Royal Festival Hall\, Southbank Centre\, SE1 8XX
CATEGORIES:Literature & Spoken Word,Refugee Week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Elif-Shafak_credit-Ferhat-Elik-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260627T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260627T220000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260325T152522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T152656Z
UID:10000609-1782568800-1782597600@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Our HeartBeats: Courage in Creativity
DESCRIPTION:Join a celebration of global club sounds and community at the Southbank Centre with Our Heartbeats DJ Crew\nRooted in the belief of music’s ability to bring people together and defy narratives\, Our HeartBeats DJ crew create a space where culture\, migration and identity collide on the dance floor. \nOur HeartBeats is a community-led DJ training and performance platform rooted in the belief that music has the power to unite\, empower and challenge narratives. Championing young DJs from refugee and displaced backgrounds\, the programme creates pathways into London’s music scene while celebrating the diverse musical identities of its artists. \nAt this event\, newly trained DJs from the latest Our HeartBeats cohort will perform their first public sets\, supported by alumni artists who have gone on to perform at festivals\, venues and radio stations across London and beyond. Special guest DJs will also join the line-up. \nAbout Our Heartbeats\nPart of Southbank Centre’s Refugee Week 2026 programme\, presented in partnership with Counterpoints Arts\, this event responds to this year’s theme of ‘courage’ – welcoming audiences to connect across cultures through music and shared celebration. \nOur HeartBeats began during Refugee Week 2024 in collaboration with the Southbank Centre and has since grown into an independent Community Interest Company supporting emerging artists through workshops\, mentoring and performance opportunities. Find out more about Our Heartbeats.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/our-heartbeats-courage-in-creativity/
LOCATION:Riverside Terrace\, Southbank Centre SE1 8XX\, SE1 8XX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:London Refugee Week,Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_5694-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260628T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260628T170000
DTSTAMP:20260501T043321
CREATED:20260325T123806Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T143343Z
UID:10000608-1782658800-1782666000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Arab Film Club: An Afternoon of Shorts and Q&A
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a specially curated programme of short films for Refugee Week 2026\nActor and writer Sarah Agha curates a programme of short films for Arab Film Club on 28 June\, followed by a live Q&A with the film-makers. These exceptional films demonstrate how film-makers can use the power of cinema\, art and storytelling to humanise narratives of migration\, using cinema to champion stories of courage\, community and resilience. \nFull line up to be announced soon. For ages 14+. \nBook your place on the Southbank Centre website. \nPhoto: Southbank 2025\, Suhaib Jaber \n— \nInterested in holding your own Refugee Week film screening?\nEach year we curate a selection of short and feature-length films from across the world exploring themes of displacement\, migration\, belonging\, and community as part of The Refugee Week Film Festival. Organisations and individuals can screen them for free during Refugee Week on 15 – 21 June 2026. Find out more about hosting your own screening.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/arab-film-club-an-afternoon-of-shorts-and-qa/
LOCATION:Purcell Room\, Southbank Centre
CATEGORIES:Film,London Refugee Week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Southbank-2025-by-Suhaib-Jaber-.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR