2024 is an auspicious year for the people of Sibford, as it marks the return to our village after 10 years of the Tibetan Tashi Lhunpo Monks who live in exile in their monastery in India. Once again they will be sharing their unique culture, including the creation and ritual destruction of a sand mandala, and interactive workshops.

At the Saturday evening performance, the eight monks will evoke the atmosphere of sacred Tibet from the mesmerising chant of Buddhist texts to swirling costumed masked dances accompanied by ancient musical instruments – horns made from human leg bones, skull-drums, cymbals, bells and the great dungchen (long horns). Don’t miss this opportunity to experience an ancient, endangered culture.

There will be another anniversary celebration in Sibford on Saturday. Thirty years after the filming of the renowned documentary Escape from Tibet, the producers and film crew will be reunited in Sibford with the two brothers, now British citizens, whose dangerous journey from the Roof of the World is told in the film. Using film clips and photographs, they will tell the story of how the film was made.

Friday 18th October
4.30pm Dedication Ceremony of the sand mandala (Small Hall)

Saturday 19th October
10am Morning Prayers

11am Hands-on Workshop: making a sand mandala, printing prayer flags
£5 per person

2.30pm Performance Workshop: an introduction to the musical instruments, dance moves and hand gestures used in the evening performance
£5 per person

4pm Tea

4.30pm ‘Escape from Tibet’ 30 Years On: how the film was made

5.30pm Curry Supper
£10 per person

7.30pm From the Roof of The World performance of masked dancers and sacred chants
Adult £16, Child £5
Doors open from 7pm

Sunday 20th October
10.45am Ceremony of Destruction of the sand mandala (Small Hall and procession to the Sib)

The net proceeds of the weekend will help support the monks, young and old, who study and live in Tashi Lhunpo, benefitting the whole community.