In the summer of 2021, Kenyan-Scottish, singer and songwriter Beldina Odenyo is on the cusp of stardom. Hailed as a fierce, uncompromising artist with a voice that can silence a room, she is working on her eagerly awaited debut album. In October, she headlines at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall. Barefoot and cloaked in black, Bel delivers a performance that leaves the audience spellbound. Promoters and musicians are convinced this will launch her career. “It was a big deal” shares Kathryn Joseph “This is it everyone is seeing the truth of her, I can't wait for the rest of it”.
Two weeks later, Bel takes her own life. She is 31.
BEL tells the story of the artist behind that voice — and the sister determined to ensure Bel’s music will continue to live on after her death.
This screening will be followed by a discussion with Director Louise Lockwood and Producer Sarah Howitt hosted by Arusa Quereshi,