Performers showcase the rich cultures and creativity of the Commonwealth at festival celebrating Diamond Jubilee
The Commonwealth Stage was a highlight of the Jubilee Family Festival on 2 June 2012, celebrating HM Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee as Head of the Commonwealth.
Acts from across the Commonwealth performed on stage under the Commonwealth theme for 2012:Connecting Cultures, in Hyde Park, London, UK.
The Commonwealth Foundation curated the stage, which was compered by BBC Radio 1 DJ, Nihal.
Commonwealth acts included: the Jaipur Maharaja Brass Band from India; The Mahotella Queens from South Africa; Harambe Drummers, a London-based all-female group from the Caribbean; Ngâti Rânana - The London Mâori Club; and the London African Gospel Choir.
| For 60 years the Queen has laid much importance on her role as Head of the Commonwealth, which includes, by developing tradition, a number of symbolic functions.
Her Majesty keeps in touch with Commonwealth developments through regular contact with the Commonwealth Secretary-General and the Commonwealth Secretariat. She also visits Commonwealth countries - including the host country of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, which is held every two years - meeting the people as well as Commonwealth leaders. |
Presented by Sainsburys, hosted by The Royal Parks and organised by promoter Harvey Goldsmith, the Jubilee Family Festival runs from 2 to 3 June 2012 and is expected to attract 50,000 visitors each day.
The Diamond Jubilee celebrations continue with the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant on 3 June 2012.
Commonwealth flags will be on display on boats taking part in what is expected to be one of the largest flotillas ever assembled on the river.
The Jubilant Commonwealth Choir will sing 13 traditional folk songs drawn from across the Commonwealth on one of the musical barges. A million spectators and more than 1,000 boats are expected.
On 4 June a network of over 4,000 beacons will be lit by communities throughout the UK, UK Overseas Territories and the Commonwealth in the Diamond Jubilee Beacons.
Keep up to date with Commonwealth-related Diamond Jubilee events through our website,Facebook, Flickr and Twitter.
We also welcome your stories. Send us photos, videos and comments on Diamond Jubilee celebrations in your region of the Commonwealth [email protected] or message our Facebook page and we’ll feature a selection.
