Principal organiser, St Luke’s Community Centre, has declared the seventh Whitecross Street Party, held last weekend, a great success, with a fantastic community turnout, a family-friendly atmosphere and great weather making it a day to remember.
The Little Angels Theatre Group at the Whitecross Street Party
The annual one-day event is an important showcasing platform for performances and creations from people of all ages, local community groups and creative organisations. Artist Teddy Baden brought together forty artists to create artwork live on the day. This work is showcased outdoors along Whitecross Street buildings for the next eight weeks in the exhibition, the Rise of the Nonconformist (18 July – 17 September).
The Stage of Nonconformity was a puppet show conceived by Little Angel Theatre, created from the work of young people at St Luke’s Primary School interpreting the history of Bunhill Burial Grounds and its residents. It was staged in Fortune Street Park. An exhibition of this work, entitled The Cabinet of Nonconformity, will tour to selected locations over the next few months.
Key Changes and Spectrum again provided excellent contributions to the programme. Congratulations go to Candoco Dance Company and the young people from Angel Shed Theatre for their successful performance; the over 50s hip hop dance troupe from Islington that worked with Simona Sicotta from Counterpoint Dance; to Dimensions Carnival Group that worked with local young people for the parade performance; and to Sadler’s Wells for the inspirational, outdoor dance performance with local community performers.
Keren Wiltshire, Director of Services at St Luke’s Community Centre, says: “It’s inspiring to bring this wonderful, unique, event together, attracting such a diverse community and audiences of all ages. An estimated 5000 people enjoyed a free day out to enjoy music, art, performances and lots of activities for young people. A big thank you to the artists, performers, musicians, volunteers, staff, Islington Council and our funders, and the Mayor for joining us. And to those who came along and enjoyed another amazing creative experience of talent, food and community!”
