Tout.es Uni.es!
On October 25th, 2024, we hosted Tout.es Uni.es! at Wharf Chambers, bringing together a lively audience for an evening dedicated to the power of community, culture and solidarity. This cabaret-style fundraiser was a celebration of Leeds’ refugee, asylum seeker, and settled communities, and it was a joy to see so many people join us for such a memorable evening.
We’re so grateful to everyone who turned up and made the night such a vibrant celebration, and to all of the volunteers and staff who helped make this event happen. The atmosphere was wonderful, filled with laughter, music and curiosity. It was a powerful reminder of the generosity and warmth shown by so many people here in Leeds. Together we’re building a more welcoming community for all.
Photos: Molly McGee
Throughout the night, our talented lineup of local artists shared powerful performances exploring identity and tradition.
Yanyao Deng opened the night with her gentle folk guitar and soulful renditions of Jasmine Flowers (茉莉花), a traditional Chinese folk song, and Leo, a celestial reflection on the fiery zodiac sign.
Anne Collins shared a powerful meditation on the importance of the right to work for refugees and asylum seekers. Anne is a writer, singer, performer, campaigner, and Mafwa Theatre Associate Artist.
Masego Lynia shared moving poetry exploring themes of identity and belonging. A dynamic spoken word artist and theatre practitioner based in Leeds, her work often weaves together personal narratives with broader social commentary.
Leeds Chinese Community School’s Traditional Dance Group treated us to elegant performances inspired by the ancient imperial courts of China. Founded in 1966, Leeds Chinese Community School is a registered charity dedicated to providing Chinese language education and promoting Chinese culture.
We screened films by Mafwa Theatre Associate Artists Mahshid, Noksha, and Anne. These short films explore the stories of women compelled to leave their homeland and were first shown as part of Flock: Short Stories from Women on the Move.
Voices Community Choir: This small but mighty community choir, directed by Christella Latras, closed the night with a rousing and defiant array of songs. Active for over a decade, the choir focuses on blending voices to create harmonies in a wide range of musical styles—beautifully arranged by Christella. They pride themselves on their accessibility, diversity, and community spirit.
A massive thank you to our fabulous MC, Ethel, for keeping the energy high all night; to Maddy for leading us in fun movement activities and games; to Mrs. Snow's Bakery for the mouthwatering sweet treats; and the Wharf Chambers for providing the perfect event space.
Thanks to the generous support of attendees, all proceeds from this event will go directly towards funding Mafwa Theatre’s ongoing workshops for refugees, asylum seekers, and settled communities in Leeds. This support allows us to continue providing creative spaces where people can feel heard, empowered, and connected.