As Black History Month reached its end, Cultureville and BOB Expo presented their annual Black Creative Soiree on 27 October – a black tie celebration celebrating Black Creativity.
Cultureville is a Manchester-based fashion brand that specialises in contemporary handcrafted clothing and accessories embodying bold African wax prints. BOB Expo is the UK’s largest expo showcasing Black owned businesses.
The event was created to showcase a positive light onto Black History Month, focusing not on the struggles Black people have faced but more on appreciating Black culture.
Manchester Museum as the venue combined with the dress code contributed to the elegance of the performances. A fashion show was the focal point of the occasion.
The hall was filled with a variety of bright, rich colours from both guests and models – the models showcasing different brands with their own individual twists was enjoyable to watch.
Some adopted a neutral, impersonal expression to place emphasis on their clothes and accessories, whilst with others, their personalities radiated. The models took to the stage with energy, sharp movements and expressions, and the audience was appreciative.
In keeping with the 2023 Black History Month theme of “Saluting our Sisters”, the show featured “Queens of Heritage”, a beautiful segment highlighting exceptional women who have not only succeeded but have also turned into role models for upcoming generations of Black creatives.
The fashion show may have been the highlight of the evening but the other performers present were just as remarkable. Guests were treated to an immersive experience with a number of riveting poetry, musical and dance performances not to be forgotten.
All performers emphasised the beauty they found within their Black identity. Whether this stemmed from religion, their experiences or upbringing, they all had a captivating story to share.
The transition between each segment was smoothly executed with the host engaging lightheartedly with the audience at all times, the atmosphere was friendly.
One thing missing from this show was the amount of attention on the work of Black artists’ present – there were opportunities during the evening to view the exhibits held by them though I do not feel like this gave them enough exposure. There’s no doubting the brilliance of this soirée overall though, it is visually enchanting and entertaining.
The Black Creative Soirée will be back in Manchester next year. If you want an excuse to glam up, network and discover talent you haven’t yet discovered, then this is the show for you.
