Recognising women leaders who are changing the soul and sound of the British music scene, Shaanti presents The Female Takeover dedicated to equal gender representation in the live music space.

Delivering a full day of live shows, events and exclusive performances to a main spotlight on Saturday 5 May at Southbank’s Alchemy Festival, this one-day female driven event promotes gender equality and inclusion with a core focus on creating opportunities for women working in music.

Tackling the problem of unequal opportunity in music from multiple angles, Shaanti marks the first time women are seen representing headlining slots with a formidable line-up. Starting from 12.30pm the day honours and showcases ten phenomenal artists from various industries, across four unique events.

12.30pm Brunchin & Bollywood with Shaanti DJs

As the name might suggest, buss a little two-step to some of the finest beats of the golden ear. Expect to hear 90s and 00s Bollywood alongside a few more current bangers thrown in for good measure from Shaanti’s DJs.

2.00pm Breakthrough Live with Sabiyha, Gnarly and Layla Tutt

Enjoy performances by emerging acts that showcase the diversity of the contemporary music scene and some of the women driving it forward

4.15pm Listen To The Conversation! With Amerah Saleh, Alisha Kabir and Jasmine Ann Cooray

Listen to the Conversation is an expressive platform presenting words of power from three of the leading women in spoken word and expressive song writing. They reflect on issues of identity, womanhood, religion and belonging.

5.00pm The Female Takeover Club Night with DJ Ritu, DJ Kookie and Sharnita (Shaanti)

Shaanti ends their Female Takeover with a bang at this club night, with no shortage of women who can hold their own behind the turntables.

The night features artists from various genres, from local underground legends to international success stories.

Artistic Director and Curator of The Female Takeover, Sharnita K Athwal from Shaanti says: “I’ve never felt this proud to be a woman in the industry than I do today. Now more than ever, it’s incumbent on every one of us to raise up the next generation of female leaders, now it’s time to change the industry for the better. It’s all right here, in how we support each other and Shaanti’s Female Takeover represents the fact that there’s room for everyone.”

Shaanti will present the UK’s very best artists in spoken word, electronic, indi-rock with inspiring women who have started their own bands, Shaanti’s Female Takeover is forcing social change to actively level music’s steep gender divide.

Shaanti’s Female Takeover at The Sounbank Centre, Royal Festival Hall, Riverside Terrace, Level 2, outside Royal Festival Hall For further information click here.

Saturday 5 May from 12.30pm til late. Free Entry all day.