A special screening of an exceptional documentary film in aid of Soundmix music project with an introduction by the film director or producer and live performances by Soundmix musicians.

AFGHAN STAR (Director Havana Marking) tells the story of an Afghan Pop Idol TV series in which people from across the country compete for a cash prize and record deal. 2000 people audition, including three brave young women. The viewers vote for their favourite singers by text message and for many this is their first encounter with democracy. This timely film follows the dramatic stories of four young contestants as they compete but it takes a terrifying turn as one young woman dances on stage, threatening her own safety and the future of the show itself. In Afghanistan you risk your life to sing.

Produced by Roast Beef Productions and Tolo TV, the film collected the prestigious Best Cultural Documentary prize at the Prix Italia Awards and also two awards at the Sundance Film Festival 2009 - Best Director and the Audience Award for World Documentary.

As it is not on general release, this represents a rare chance to see the film in London - not to be missed!

SOUNDMIX runs music workshops for unaccompanied refugees and asylum seeking children aged 12-17 years old. The children, from countries such as Afghanistan and Iran, are separated from their families. They have often escaped extremely traumatic experiences in their country of origin. We help them to adjust to their new circumstances, providing support in a fun, challenging and safe environment.

All proceeds from the evening will fund Soundmix workshops in 2010.

http://www.myspace.com/soundmixproject

Soundmix workshops are currently run under the umbrella of the Brixton St Vincent's Community Centre, a registered charity, number 1082783.