Field Reporter: Festival MED’s 6th edition!

From June 24th-28th, 2009, this year's Festival MED (http://www.festivalmed.com.pt) in Loulé, Portugal, showed once again its growth in the world music festival scene. Ariadna Purroy Albet experienced it also as an encounter and mixture of cultures in gastronomy, exhibitions, handicrafts and animated theater.

Located in the historical city center of Loulé, in the Algarve region of Portugal, these five days filled the narrow streets and squares of the old town, transforming it in a parade of cultural displays.
One could say the most highly anticipated performers in the music category were clearly Ojos de Brujo (Spain) and Buena Vista Social Club (Cuba). The latter filled the air with songs such as ¨Candela¨ and ¨El cuarto de Tula¨, which had the whole main square dancing, singing and showing their devotion for this characteristic and changing orchestra. Being able to enjoy their music in such a cozy environment and good vibes among the audience was a wonderful experience on the night of the 26th.
While walking along the streets, listening to the different musical groups, one could stop to eat or snack at several tents and bars displaying various cuisines from the Mediterranean. In the mean time, animation and live theater were being held on the streets with characters dressed up for the occasion. In addition, there were opportunities to participate in different workshops such as flamenco, ethnic chants and others offered throughout the festival.

To conclude, Festival MED was a great experience and location to share and be inspired by the art and culture from Arabic to African and particularly, Mediterranean cultures.

 

Ariadna Purroy Albet
EMBC- Marine Biodiversity and Conservation
June 2009