Why did you decide to organize an ‘international edition’ of the open podium?
‘Open Podium is an annual event which is usually organized by Apollo alone,’ Kumar says. ‘Apollo is an umbrella organization for all cultural associations at UT, no matter if they are Dutch or non-Dutch. So there already is a body and a place to organize cultural events here. However, international associations are organizing such events separately.’ He adds: ‘We would like to integrate the international associations and let them know that Apollo is an open platform which even they can be a part of.’
Bolhaar: ‘We are trying to unite different groups and have members, who can learn from each other. We want to integrate the international students and also to learn about their cultural backgrounds. This year´s Open Podium is all about cultural integration – there is a mixture of Dutch and international performers participating.’
What is unique about this event?
Kumar: ‘The aspect of cultural integration and cultural sensitivity.’ For the first time, we are having a separate bar with only non-alcoholic drinks. This is to ensure that people, who are culturally sensitive and do not drink at places where alcohol is served, can still come and feel welcome. This bar should be located inside, near the stage; while the bar with alcoholic drinks will be situated in the foyer. Many people from the international community do not drink alcohol and don´t like drinking at a table where alcohol is served, so this time we arranged this in order to respect these cultural differences.’
According to Bolhaar, that is the nice thing about this event. ‘All cultures are accommodated and they are welcomed. We make it easier for people to meet each other this way. And you get to see many cultures at one place.’
‘Open podium 2014 - the international edition’ is an open event in the 'Agora' in building de Vrijhof and the entry is free. The entire program (from 7pm to 11:30pm) can be found online.
