Story: Rohan Francis | Photo: Gemma Thorpe
Two young men from Burngreave are the stars of a new film exploring the cultural and musical traditions of Sheffield's Roma community.
Mario Sandor and Marek Pacan came to the UK from Slovakia several years ago. They have both since worked as teaching assistants in local primary schools.
In the film, Mario describes how he was inspired to follow his dream of becoming a teacher by his own experience of education back in Slovakia, and by the supportive words of the English teacher he met in Sheffield.
“You have two different schools for children in Slovakia – Roma and non-Roma. I went to the Roma school and the standard of education was very poor. My job now is to help primary school children with their language, but also to help their families – I am the bridge between the parents and the school.”
Marek, who came to Sheffield after growing up in a small Slovakian village, tells a story of his dream to become a musician and to develop his singing skills. He talks about the opportunities he now has in Sheffield, which did not exist before he came to the UK, and his hope that he can be a role model for other Roma boys. During the film, Marek describes the importance of music to him and how valuable it can be to express true feelings.
“Music is all about what I'm going through and the things that happen. It's the same in the Roma culture. Roma songs are all about true stories. Music is in our blood.”
The film is a collaboration between Sheffield Babel Songs, filmmaker Gemma Thorpe and the University of Sheffield, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council.
It was first shown in July at an event in Cardiff, and is to get its Sheffield premier at St Andrew’s Church, Psalter Lane on Saturday 27th September, 4-8pm. Marek will also be performing songs from the film with Sheffield Babel Songs and the event will include choirs and groups from across Sheffield sharing their music, heritage and culture.
Mario and Marek's film, “Roma Stories”, can be viewed on Youtube: youtu.be/_tY4VuERQZI