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On Wednesday 18th June, Music Connects is celebrating Refugee Week 2025 with an open mic evening at the Boileroom in Guildford, using this year’s theme ‘Community as a Superpower’ as inspiration.

Music Connects is a collaborative music project which brings young people from displaced and local communities together, through the shared language of music. The project is funded by Youth Music and the Arts Council and in partnership with Big Leaf Foundation and ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø Arts.

Kayte Cable, Big Leaf Foundation founder says, ‘Community as a Superpower’ is an idea that resonates so strongly with all of us at Big Leaf, particularly during a time when migrant and non-white communities across the UK are facing increasing hostility and agitation.’

During the evening, members of the local community are welcome to join Music Connects at the Boileroom, to sing, play or dance alongside performances from displaced and local young people, reflecting the connection and strength that comes both from music itself, and the opportunity to celebrate it together. This will be an open stage for all abilities not just talented or experienced musicians.

Sarah Lee: ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø Arts Head of Service said ‘ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø Arts is incredibly proud to partner with Big Leaf Foundation on Music Connects, a project that powerfully demonstrates how music can break down barriers and build lasting connections. Seeing displaced and local young people come together, create, and celebrate through music is a moving reminder that community truly is a superpower. Refugee Week gives us a vital opportunity to amplify these voices, and we're honoured to be the delivery partner on such an inclusive and inspiring event.’

Now in its fourth year, Music Connects participants have previously recorded 3 songs at the Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM), written and recorded a track with Mother Mother, performed at Union Chapel London, and held several open mic nights.

Most recently they performed at the Mayor of Guildford’s Diversity show, with a shadow puppetry retelling of a journey to sanctuary to an original soundtrack which was composed and performed by Music Connects participants, where they received a standing ovation and many expressions of solidarity and friendship.

For more information and to book a ticket, please contact Kayte at contact@bigleaffoundation.org.uk