“ŠA STREET” BRINGS ART, MUSIC, AND UNITY TO PRIJEDOR IN A SPECIAL EDITION FORMAT

This year’s edition of the beloved “ŠA Fest” in Prijedor will take on a new form – transforming into “ŠA Street,” a celebration of art, music, and human connection, taking place from July 31 to August 2 in the city’s main pedestrian zone.

PHOTO: ŠA ulica

Due to the recent devastating floods in Prijedor, the full-scale festival has been postponed to next year. However, the organizers decided not to let the summer pass without spreading the signature “ŠA energy.” Instead, they are offering a vibrant street program that emphasizes community, creativity, and compassion.

The program kicks off on Thursday, July 31, with an exhibition by students of the Academy of Arts in Banja Luka (Animated Film Department), in cooperation with the Association for Animation of Republika Srpska. The evening continues with a unique performance by students of “Petar Kočić” Elementary School, who will present the illustrated book “Prijedorski Bukvar,” and pay tribute to the humanitarian work of the “Nikola Baroš” Foundation. The night will close with a concert by renowned jazz bassist Per “The Bass Viking” Mathisen and his quintet.

Friday, August 1, features the popular “Art Corner” in front of the “Sreten Stojanović” Gallery, with animation workshops for children. The “ŠA Kids” zone will come alive with a playful theater performance titled "Happy Journey.” The day concludes with the annual concert of local band “The Bechars” and special guests.

On Saturday, August 2, the creativity continues in the Art Corner, followed by a unique urban performance – “Animacycle on Wheels” – combining cycling and short animation projections. Children will enjoy time with popular animator Uncle Nikola, and the event wraps up with an energetic performance by alternative rock band “Artan Lili” on the town’s small square.

The “ŠA Fest” team emphasized that this year’s event carries a deeper meaning. In light of the flooding, organizers proposed that the city redirect its planned cultural funding toward a relief fund to support recovery efforts.

"Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors – including Jelena, NLB, Tropic, Vivia, Mira, Austronet, and others – and the understanding of the City of Prijedor, this year’s ‘ŠA Fest’ is a story of solidarity. It is a reminder that through art, we can bring people closer together,” said the festival team.

They invite all citizens to come, participate, and create beautiful memories in the spirit of unity. All events are free and open to the public.