The Maidstone Mela will this year be headlined by One of UK’s finest Soul, R&B. Jazz, Reggae and Gospel Singers Ruby Turner who has released 14 albums with number ones in the UK and USA as well as appearing on releases by the likes of Mick Jagger, UB40 and Brian Ferry. In recent years she has performed regularly with Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Band.

Other exiting performances include the Cohesion Plus produced “Afro-Bhangra” Fusion which will be performed by Four by Four Bhangra and Uzambezi Arts, popular local comedy duo Danny and Dan, the excellent Phase 5 Steel Band, emerging vocal trio Imminent and the internationally renowned Gypsy Stars who originate from Poland. Other local acts performing include the Kerala Cultural Association, Maidstone Nepalese Community Group, Real Eire Dance and Bollywood Blast. 

Gurvinder Sandher Artistic Director for the Mela commented “I am very pleased with the breadth of stage acts we have for this year’s Mela. We have everything from Calypso, Bollywood, Irish Dance to traditional Nepalese and Roma music and dance to contemporary Comedy. I am confident the newly commissioned Afro-Bhangra Fusion will prove to be popular and what a great treat for those in attendance to see the legendary Ruby Turner performing live at the Mela. As ever I appreciate the on-going support of all our partners most notably Maidstone Borough Council and Arts Council England for allowing us to develop such an exciting stage programme.”