Totnes to Host a Summer of Palestinian Culture
Hip-hop pioneer Tamer Nafar and a Gazan feast come to town
Totnes Friends of Palestine (TFOP) has announced two standout events this summer bringing Palestinian music, food and storytelling to the town, as part of the group’s ongoing programme of cultural solidarity.
On Thursday 23 July, acclaimed Palestinian rapper and storyteller Tamer Nafar brings his one-man show “In the Name of the Father, the Imam, John Lennon Revisited” to the Barrel House. A founding figure of Palestinian hip-hop and frontman of the pioneering group DAM, Nafar is one of the most influential voices in contemporary Arabic music, weaving music, video, storytelling and audience participation into a show that reaches far beyond the hip-hop crowd. The evening is expected to sell out.
“It’s unbelievable to have Tamer Nafar — the founder of Palestinian hip-hop, and a legend — play a gig at the Totnes Barrel House,” said Martin Goldschmidt of Totnes Friends of Palestine. “I’ve seen his one-man show, and it interweaves video, storytelling and audience participation. It appeals to a far wider audience than the pure hip-hop crowd.”
Tickets: book here · Thursday 23 July, 7:30–10:30pm · £15.40 / £22.00
A week later, on Thursday 30 July, chef Mona brings Baitona — a “Warm Palestinian Hospitality Dinner” — to The Albert Inn, Totnes. For one night only, the pub will be transformed into a welcoming Gazan dining room, celebrating authentic, handcrafted food with deep roots. Expect sharing platters of mezze, slow-cooked qidra, and hot kullaj pastry, all prepared with the finest ingredients.
Limited to just 40 seats, this intimate pop-up is more than just a feast; it is a heartfelt fundraiser supporting a family in Gaza. It’s an opportunity to experience true Palestinian generosity while making a real difference. Diners can choose between traditional chicken qidra or a hearty vegetarian mujadara, with a vegan option also available. Booking is essential.
Tickets: tickettailor.com/events/bitona/2246244
Both events form part of a wider season of TFOP activity through the summer, alongside concerts, talks, film and a regular online link with the group’s twinned community in Salfit in the occupied West Bank.
EVENT DETAILS
Tamer Nafar — “In the Name of the Father, the Imam, John Lennon Revisited”. Thursday 23 July, 7:30–10:30pm, The Barrel House, Totnes. Tickets £15.40 / £22.00, via Universe (link above).
Baitona: Warm Palestinian Hospitality Dinner with Chef Mona. Thursday 30 July, doors 6:30pm, The Albert Inn, Totnes. 40 seats only, booking essential. Tickets: tickettailor.com/events/bitona/2246244