ABOUT FEELN FESTIVAL
Freedom - Expression - Equality - Life - Network
Pelourinho, Salvador, BAHIA, BRAZIL 2024
Introducing the inaugural FEELn Festival, a groundbreaking celebration of cultural exchange, artistic expression, and community engagement set in the heart of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. This innovative festival redefines the traditional festival experience by transforming the historic Pelourinho district into a vibrant tapestry of intimate performance spaces, where audiences can immerse themselves in the rich collection of global arts and culture.
​
The FEELn Festival takes full advantage of the district’s grand houses, buildings, and unique spaces, repurposing them into intimate venues that host a diverse array of performances ranging from music and dance to cuisine and even sport. Each venue offers a distinct atmosphere and aesthetic, providing audiences with an unparalleled opportunity to experience art up close and personal.
What sets this festival apart is its emphasis on interaction, education and accessibility. Unlike conventional festivals held in large arenas or outdoor stages, the FEELn Festival allows audiences to navigate freely throughout the district, discovering hidden gems and stumbling upon unexpected performances around every corner. Whether it’s a soulful jazz performance in a cozy courtyard, a captivating African artist in a historic mansion, or an impromptu dance workshop in a bustling square, the festival invites attendees to engage with the artists and their craft in a way that feels organic and spontaneous.
​
In addition to showcasing established talent from around the world, the Feeln Festival also provides a platform for emerging talent, offering opportunities for local performers to
share their work alongside their international counterparts. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that the festival remains true to its roots as a celebration of diversity and artistic innovation. There will be spontaneous collaborations and jams between the artists which will be unscripted and experienced by the amazed audience knowing they are watching a unique once in a lifetime moment.
The FEELn Festival will culminate in a grand finale on a main stage in the Pelourhino, which will feature some of the participating artists for a spectacular performance. This final showcase promises to evoke the traditional festival atmosphere, providing attendees who cherish the classic festival experience with an exciting highlight to anticipate.
Throughout the festival, attendees are encouraged to interact with the artists, participate in workshops and discussions, and explore the rich cultural heritage of Salvador and the Pelourinho district. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious about the world around you, the FEELn Festival promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the power of art to unite, inspire, and transform lives. Come join us and be a part of history in the making at the FEELn Festival.
UNIQUE
-
Each performance will be streamed to a global audience.
-
Each space will feature media screens outside, broadcasting segments of the show.
-
-
Every element will be meticulously designed to bridge the gap between the audience and the talent, including you controlling when phones can and cannot be used during your performance.
Artists hailing from 18 diverse countries, including representatives from 7 African nations, as well as talents from India, the United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Sweden, France, Reunion Island, Jamaica, and the USA, will converge at the FEELn festival. This global gathering will showcase a myriad of musical styles and expressions. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to witness the birth of something truly remarkable, distinctive, and transformative. Join us for an experience that promises to be nothing short of unforgettable.
COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY - Unlike traditional festivals driven solely by profit, the FEELn Festival operates as a non-profit venture. This means that the majority of proceeds, after covering expenses, will be reinvested back into the communities of Bahia and Africa. Our goal is to provide vital assistance to those in need, support children’s education, and empower the less advantaged. This approach also drives our spending. We are clear about the fact the more we spend the less we can give and we want to give as much as possible.
Transparent Giving:
Transparency is paramount to us. Prior to the festival’s commencement, we will publicly disclose a comprehensive list of the projects, charities, and individuals that will benefit from our contributions. This ensures accountability and allows our participants to see the tangible impact of their support.
A great look for you the artist:
Performing at the FEELn Festival presents a unique opportunity to showcase your commitment to social responsibility. By supporting our mission, you will be associated with positive change and community empowerment, enhancing your image and fostering goodwill.
​
We’ll be allocating special times for students, young individuals, and the community to enjoy the event at no cost, enabling them to fully engage in the festival without financial constraints. Furthermore, we’re dedicated to offering training programs and avenues for personal and professional development, empowering attendees to succeed both during and after the festival. Your participation can play a crucial role in this community initiative by inspiring and educating and others in a real way. We encourage story telling at your performances, speaking about your journey and challenges and your inspirations will help others.
EDUCATION
At the FEELn festival, we believe that experiencing music, food, and entertainment should be more than just a sensory delight—it should also be an
opportunity for learning and cultural enrichment.
To ensure that our attendees gain valuable insights, we’re committed to providing comprehensive information on various aspects of the festival experience, including:
​
-
Background information about the artists, including their cultural heritage and history.
-
Details about the performance spaces, enriching the audience’s understanding of the context in which the artists are showcasing their talents.
-
Insights into the connections between the presented art forms and their roots in Africa and Brazil, fostering appreciation for their cultural significance.
-
Information about the countries or regions represented by the artists, offering a broader perspective on the global diversity of artistic expression.
-
Explanations about the specific art forms, ingredients, or materials used by the artists in their performances, deepening the audience’s understanding of their craft.
-
Guidance on how attendees can become further involved or learn more about the captivating aspects of the festival.
CONNECTING TO AFRICA
As visitors step into the FEELn festival, they’re immediately enveloped in our profound connection to Africa, its vibrant culture, and its far-reaching influence. This bond isn’t just showcased through the significant presence of African artists gracing our stages but also in the deep-rooted historical ties between Africa and Brazil.
Brazil, home to a population of 218 million, with over half of its people tracing their roots back to Africa, stands as one of the largest black nations outside the African continent, second only to Nigeria globally. Recognizing this historical and cultural significance, it was paramount for us at the FEELn festival to honor this legacy.
Our mission is to cultivate a deeper appreciation for Africa and its enduring impact on Brazil. This presents an exceptional opportunity for you to expand your reach and engage directly with audiences in Africa, Brazil, and beyond.
The FEELn International Team
Stephen Ellis
Production Partner UK
United Kingdom | Jamaica
Project ambassador, artist procurement and Management
USA
Project investment manager, film development and organization
Thailand
Project security, Head of Finance
Australia
Project art and film Ambassador/Manager
Jamaica
Tre Goodrum
Project broadcast/streaming and production manager
USA
Project global ambassador, Africa liaison manager
South Africa
Project International Cultural Ambassador and Asia Liaison Manager
China
Head of the FEELn Film Festival
Project Ambassador and Head of International legal affairs
Benin | Thailand
Project Ambassador and head of health and Wellbeing
United Kingdom | Jamaica
Project and event manager
United Kingdom
Project Mental health ambassador
Nigeria | USA | UK
African media and artist manager - Project Ambassador FEELn Festival
USA
Africa/Germany FEELn Festival Ambassador
Nigera
Njabulo Madondo
Youth Sports Ambassador (Rugby)
South Africa
International Goodwill Ambassador
Czech Republic
Peter Rufai
Youth and Sports Ambassador (Football)
Nigeria