BELFAST MELA

World Stage

Get your best dance moves at the ready for a party at the World Stage!

We’ve assembled a wonderful line up of music, dance and discussion from around the world, all presented by local artists living in Northern Ireland. Bust a Bollywood move with our South Asian Dance Academy, transport yourself to the sun kissed sounds of Spain or get into the groove with Zimbabwean beats. There’s a little something for everyone!

Get your best dance moves at the ready!
World Stage Graphic

What's On

The Dhol Foundation

The Dhol Foundation

They say that music is the language of the soul, and nothing could be truer for this Musician. The Dhol Foundation has earned a reputation as a a group of talented musicians and skillfull performers coming together to create a truly monstrous show! From live gigs to studio sessions and more, Johnny Kalsi & The Dhol Foundation continues to touch the hearts of fans around the world with our distinct and enjoyable musical style

Bhangra Smash Up

Bhangra Smash Up formed in 2017 and since then have performed all over the UK, including some of the biggest festivals and events across the region. This is not a regular drumming band; they can guarantee that – once the Bhangra Smash Up take the stage with their electrifying Dhol beats, fusing with the Dholak and mainstream music, you cannot help but to dance!

Bhangra Smash Up
Baile an Salsa

Baile an Salsa

Baile An Salsa brings together an international mix of world-class musicians to deliver a distinctive blend of Latin rhythms and traditional Irish Music – a fusion which they call “Salsa-Trad.” The musicians seamlessly blend their influences from Latin America, Europe and the United States to create a contemporary twist of traditional tunes with original compositions. Vocals in English, Spanish and Irish, provided by the band’s founder, Andres Martorell, meld with the group’s vibrant combination of instruments, creating a full, rich sound that is fun and danceable.

Discovery Gospel Choir

Discovery Gospel Choir is Ireland’s leading multi-cultural choir, singing songs of hope from all over the world. Their membership currently spans 14 different nationalities, and we sing in 30 different languages. Their motto is “Discovery Beauty in Everyone”, and everywhere we go, we share our vision of a modern, diverse Ireland through our vibrant performances.

Discovery Gospel Choir
Dance United

Dance United

Dance United are a new collective of diverse dancers living in Northern Ireland. They will make their debut at Mela with a performances blending the rich cultural influences of Bollywood/bangra K-pop, and Arabian music, all infused with dynamic hip-hop elements.

South Asian Dance Academy

The South Asian Dance Academy (SADA) provide amazing Bollywood & classical performances and workshops throughout the island of Ireland. SADA also works to encourage engagement and participation in traditional and contemporary South Asian dance. The academy works with a diverse group of freelance dancers with varying skills, discipline areas, genres of focus and levels of experience

 South Asian Dance Academy
Chinese Dance NI

Chinese Dance NI

Local members of the Chinese community present traditional Chinese fan dancing, which is a centuries old dance style from China. The group is led by dancer Weihong who performs all over Northern Ireland

Mexican Dance NI

Local members of the Mexican community present traditional folk dancing. The group is led by dancer Mayte Segura who performs all over Northern Ireland

Mexican Dance NI