On the 13th-14th June 2009 the smaller sibling of The Big Dress, fondly known as The Little Big Dress, will be open as a venue at the Bradford Mela.

The Bradford Mela is one of the most established events of its kind. It has grown year on year, attracting over 100,000 people from all communities in Bradford as well as people from around the country making it one of the biggest melas in Europe. Known for its exciting mix of community activities and a huge array of market stalls selling tempting goods and delicious foods.

The word Mela originates from Sanskrit meaning 'to meet'. It's most common usage is to describe a large gathering of people coming together in celebration.

Here in the UK, Melas provide an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate and share their culture.

We will be using the Little Big Dress as an environment where people at the festival can come and engage with SPEAK's campaigns, learn more about important issues and take part in many arts and crafts.

If you would like to volunteer to help at the mela and would like to contribute with workshops, music, art, knowledge, brawn or any other valuable skill or assett you have, then please contact sam@speak.org.uk

Thoughout the weekend will be interactive petitions and ways to get involved with our campaigns in creative and fun ways. As well as lots of other fun things:

On Saturday the little BIG dress will host drumming workshops, live music, giant knitting workshops, dramas, discussion panels, recycled crafts workshops, Story Telling, and open Mic sessions.

On Saturday the little BIG dress will host SOUL SPACE, more story telling and drama, More Drumming workshops, Live Music, Adapting old clothes workshop, TAIZE, and a big DANCE/MUSIC/DRUM CELEBRATION.

Hope to see you there!